James E. McGreevey
Governor

William D. Watley
Secretary of Commerce

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Karen Wolfe - 609.292.2523

CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH IN NEW JERSEY
COMMEMORATING THE GARDEN STATE'S CULTURAL
AND AESTHETIC HERITAGE

Trenton, N.J. (January 27, 2004)—From the Skylands region of Sussex County to the tip of Cape May at the southern shore, New Jersey during the month of February will be celebrating a rich cultural heritage that commemorates the achievements and contributions of African Americans.

Black History Month in New Jersey features a tremendous diversity of activities throughout the state. Whether it's jazz, a dramatic play or an afternoon with the kids, you're sure to find it in February in the Garden State.

"New Jersey takes great pride in its cultural legacy," said Nancy Byrne, executive director of the Office of Travel & Tourism. "New Jersey's African American community has roots not only in urban centers but old rural towns such as Whitesboro whose history is documented with the Cape May County Historical and Genealogical Society."

Museums are a great place to begin a journey into African American history. The African Art Museum of the Society of African Missions in Tenafly is one of the few museums in the country dedicated solely to the art of Sub-Saharan Africa. Shops and art galleries carry authentic African apparel and decor and the state's cultural institutions will be featuring historical and entertaining programs throughout the month.

Black history has been recognized annually since 1926, first as "Negro History Week" and later as "Black History Month." Dr. Carter G. Woodson, a Harvard scholar, is credited for the celebration of Black History Month. He launched the commemoration as an initiative to bring national attention to the contributions of black people throughout American history.

The African American tour guide is an excellent resource that highlights dining and shopping venues, numerous events and activities scheduled for February and throughout the year. For information and brochures on touring, dining, places to stay, maps and a complete vacation kit, contact the New Jersey Office of Travel & Tourism, at 609-292-2470; or visit the website at www.visitnj.org