The Buffalo Common Council recognized Black History Month Tuesday with a poetry reading from local seventh grader, Randi Noble.
Noble, who attends St. John the Baptist School in Tonawanda, read a poem entitled "I stand" by Akili Amina. She said the poem means a lot to her and it really helps people understand the importance of Black History Month.
"I'm honored to be in this position and I just hope I get more opportunities to do this, because I love to do this. I love to read and It's black history month and that's really important to me," said Noble.
University District Common Council member Bonnie Russell said each year they bring people to speak about Black History Month and their message is strong, but it's even better to hear from young people about the achievements of Africans Americans through the years.
"That's what's important, remembering the history, understanding it and passing it on down to our children," said Russell.
Russell said with changing times it's important to make sure that children are still interested in learning about Black History Month. Ellicott District Council member Darius Pridgen said hearing Noble speak showed him that young people are still excited to learn about the African American heritage.
"This is a month that means a lot to me, because of the people who've gone before me and the people that are present now who have fought hard and worked hard to make America a better place for all people not just for African Americans," said Pridgen.
"I think that it is a very special month and I think that it was wonderful that the council, all of the members of the council to recognize this month as we do any special month," said Pridgen.
A new student will be picked each week during Black History Month to share how it impacts their life.