Photo Courtesy of the Governor’s Office. Gov. Tomblin listens as Poet Crystal Good reads a poem during the Celebration of Diversity
Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin and Dr. Carolyn Stuart of the Herbert Henderson Office of Minority Affairs joined minority advocates in the business, education and faith-based communities, from across the state, to a celebrate of diversity at the State Capitol.
“As we prepare to commemorate our State’s 150th birthday, I think it’s only fitting we take this opportunity to reflect upon our most valuable asset – our people,” Gov. Tomblin said during the event. “Throughout our history, people of all different backgrounds have worked together for equality, making West Virginia the great state it is today. And just as our forefathers did many years ago, I ask that we all listen to one another, learn from one another so we may continue to share our ideas, beliefs, and experiences in order to build a better West Virginia for all.”
In 2012, Gov. Tomblin signed legislation establishing the Herbert Henderson Office of Minority Affairs, the state’s first statewide office dedicated to minority issues.
“As Black History Month comes to a close, we gather to celebrate the people who came before us – the diverse group of West Virginians – who advocated for equality and made many contributions to the Mountain State and our nation,” said Dr. Carolyn Stuart, Director of the Herbert Henderson Office of Minority Affairs. “Now it is up to us to continue their work and remain vigilant in our efforts for our future and our children’s future.”
