USDA Observes Black History Month

On February 7, 2008, USDA celebrated Black History Month at an opening ceremony in the Jefferson Auditorium in Washington, DC. The theme of this year's celebration is "Carter G. Woodson and the Origins of Multiculturalism." Each year, USDA employees come together for this nation-wide celebration that provides an opportunity to reflect on the significant roles that Black Americans have made in shaping U. S. history.

Chuck Conner, Deputy Secretary of Agriculture, Margo M. McKay, Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, and Carl-Martin Ruiz, Director, Office of Outreach and Diversity pose for a group picture with the keynote speaker, George C. Fraser after delivering his remarks at the Black History Month Observance ceremony.

George Fraser, acclaimed author, motivational speaker, Chairman and CEO of FraserNet, delivering the keynote address at the Black History Month Observance ceremony.

Singing "Lift Every Voice and Sing" at the Black History Month observance ceremony. From left to right are: Gwen Edmonson, Special Assistant to the Director, Office of Outreach and Diversity; Michael Watts, Acting Director, Office of Adjudication and Compliance; Renee Allen, Executive Assistant to the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights; Elaine Ho, Director, Office of Diversity; and Ruth Piotrowski, National Federal Women's Program Manager, Forest Service.