The Board of Lucas County Commissioners will host a series of events to celebrate Black History Month, beginning with raising the Pan-African flag at One Government Center on Tuesday, February 3, 2026.
The flag-raising event began at 10:30 a.m. at the One Government Center flagpoles.
Commissioners Lisa A. Sobecki, Pete Gerken, and Anita Lopez were joined by Toledo Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz, Toledo City Council President Vanice Williams, the Lucas County Department of Engagement, representatives from the Community Solidary Response Network of Toledo (CSRN), and members of the community to raise the Pan-African Flag.
Following the flag-raising ceremony, Black History Month programming continued at the 11 a.m. Board of Lucas County Commissioners meeting on the first floor of One Government Center.
The Commissioners, Council President Williams, Brother Washington Muhammad with CSRN, NAACP Toledo Branch President Darlene Sweeney-Newbern, and community leader Terry Crosby made remarks. Jodie Summers performed spoken word poetry, and the Black National Anthem will be sung.
The Commissioners will continue Black History Month celebrations throughout February and recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to Lucas County.
Tuesday, February 10 at 11 a.m., One Government Center
The Commissioners will recognize the following individuals:
- Randall Parker, pastor of Caanan Manifested Word Church and Toledo Public Schools Board of Education member
- Warren and Yolanda Woodberry, youth chess instructors
- Dennis Hopson, prolific Ohio State University basketball player and Bowsher High School graduate
- Alicia Smith, co-founder of the Junction Coalition
Tuesday, February 17 at 11 a.m., One Government Center
The Commissioners will hear a presentation about the Legacy of Art Tatum and enjoy “When or where” by Saxophonist Gary Jobe.
The Board will also recognize the following individuals:
- Calvin Sweeney, president and co-founder of the Art Tatum Zone and the Lead Pastor of the Tabernacle Church • Christine Sweeney, executive director of the Art Tatum Zone and retired Toledo Public Schools teacher
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