Deck the House winners were announced during council’s Jan. 30 meeting, where members also approved a proclamation for Black History Month.
Mount Laurel council recognized February as Black History Month and cited holiday house decorating contest winners at its Jan. 30 meeting.
To kick off the session, council named the winners of the third annual holiday decorating contest – called Deck the House – and presented them with prizes. There were five categories: best use of theme, most creative, council’s choice, mayor’s choice and people’s choice.
The last went to Larry Ninerell, of 7 Carnation Court. Council’s choice went to Hap-Hap-Happiest Wonderland of Lights at 170 Canterbury Road. The mayor’s choice was Frosty’s Winter Wonderland, at 439 Timberline Drive; most creative went to A StarWars Christmas, at 718 Hunters Lane; and Hi Santa! at 422 Magnolia Road won for best theme.
Black History Month’s annual celebration acknowledges local and national achievements in the African American community and their important role in history, along with reflections on Black America’s struggle for civil rights.
February has been nationally recognized as Black History Month every year since 1976, the proclamation notes. The observance offers a call to action for society to become more educated on heritage and history, and to honor the many Black leaders who have contributed to the country’s cultural, economic and intellectual advancement.
“The township cherishes the value of each person and appreciates the importance of equality and freedom,” the proclamation reads. “The observance of Black History Month calls our town’s attention to the continued need to battle racism and build a community that welcomes and supports every person and family, regardless of race.”
Deputy Mayor Fozia Janjua cited Black history as especially important given the Trump administration’s rollbacks of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) policies.
” … I want everyone to know Black history is American history,” she told meeting attendees. “At a time right now where DEIB efforts are trying to be erased, we as a township are committed to (sharing) Black history, (as well as) different ethnicities and cultures in our town and celebrating them.”
The next council meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Monday, March 3.
