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In observance of African American History Month, the Library of Virginia honored eight distinguished Virginians as African American Trailblazers for their contributions to the state and nation.
Library Director Dr. Virginia Cherry attended the 2009 African American Trailblazers in Virginia History Reception at the Library of Virginia on February 26. Honorees included:
In conjunction with the educational program and reception, the Library of Virginia a student essay contest for Virginia students in grades 3-8. Civil rights attorney and activist Oliver Hill once said: “Our Declaration of Independence says we are all created with rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. I agree with the life and the liberty. The pursuit of happiness ought to include the right to be taught and trained, to be able to do something constructive, to move toward a civilized society.” Based on this statement, contestants were asked to respond to the question, “What does the pursuit of happiness mean to you?”
Event Photos
Dr. Virginia Cherry with display poster.
Daughters of honoree Evelyn Butts came all the way from Omaha, Nebraska. Their mother helped extend the right to vote to all citizens by filing the first suit in federal court challenging the constitutionality of the Virginia poll tax.
Dr. Virginia Cherry poses with friend Barbara McDaniel; Barbara McDaniel's mother Lillian W. McDaniel was honored through The Virginia Foundation for Women’s Virginia Women in History progam in 2002.
Barbara McDaniel with Henry Marsh.
Essay contest winner Imani Brooks (far left), a fifth-grader at South Boston Elementary School, celebrates with her family and Barbara McDaniel (far right).
