OCOEE, FL. – In recognition of Black History Month, the City of Ocoee issued a
proclamation at its City Commission meeting held on February 4. The proclamation
reads in part, “Black History Month is celebrated annually in February across the United
States; it serves as a celebration of African American achievements and the crucial role
they had in U.S History.”


The city is holding its 20th Annual Black History Month Essay Contest. The essay
competition is open to 5th-grade students who attend Ocoee schools. The theme for
the essay contest is “100 Years of Unity – As the city reflects on the past century, what
is your vision for Ocoee and America for the next 100 years? How can you promote
and encourage diversity and unity in your community?” The grand prize winner will
receive a $200 Best Buy gift card, first-place winners will earn a $100 gift card, second-place winners will be awarded a $50 gift card and third-place winners will receive a $25
gift card. All winners will receive certificates of recognition and gift bags with city
promotional items. The essay winners will be recognized at the Ocoee City Commission
Meeting on March 4 at 6:15 p.m. The meeting will be broadcast on Ocoee TV Spectrum
Channel 493 and a livestream at https://www.ocoee.org/OcoeeTV.


Ocoee TV is airing programs that highlight significant people and events from African
American history. Attached is the Ocoee TV schedule. The city’s 17th Annual Dr. Martin
Luther King, Jr. Day Unity Parade and Celebration is also airing and can be viewed on
Ocoee TV’s YouTube channel at https://www.ocoee.org/mlk. Biographical portraits of
notable black Americans are displayed at City Hall.


For more information, call 407-905-3100