Earl Honored In Village's Innovative Black History Month Display

SPRING VALLEY, NY — Rockland County Legislator Toney L. Earl is "deeply honored" to be among the honorees pictured on the special Black History Month banners displayed up and down Main Street in Spring Valley. This is the second year the village has created the banners for its innovative accolade.

"I was not only surprised, but deeply honored to be included as part of this tribute, he said in a statement. “I have to say, it’s fairly humbling to see your likeness on such a banner and to be considered a role model in your community."

The banners with the portraits of notable Black Americans were Spring Valley Village Mayor Alan Simon's idea, said the village’s director of community development, Nida Sharif.

She said honorees from all walks of life – past and present – have been considered for the banners. While we all read about history in textbooks, she said, it’s also empowering for children to see the photos of people they actually know in the community, people who can help inspire them to greater heights.

The list of honorees ranges from former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama to Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks. Locals have included NAACP Spring Valley Chapter President Willie Trotman and basketball great Willie Worsley. All told, there are now more than two dozen banners on view, Sharif said.

In addition to Earl, this year’s honorees include recently retired Spring Valley Police Officer George Johnson, former MLK Multi-Purpose Center Director and Human Rights Activist Dr. Stella Marrs, Pastor Rev. Dr. Weldon McWilliams Jr. and Spring Valley Police Det. Reginald Anderson.

Earl’s district includes Hillcrest and part of Spring Valley. The banners will remain on display into early March, Sharif said.