LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — The Board of Supervisors and the Clearlake City Council last week presented proclamations recognizing February as Black History Month.

Gov. Gavin Newsom earlier this month also issued a proclamation declaring February 2022 as Black History Month.

Last Tuesday, the Board of Supervisors presented its proclamation — which also celebrates the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. — to Rick Mayo, president of the Lake County Branch of the NAACP, which he founded in 1982.

The proclamation, given to Mayo by Supervisor Bruno Sabatier, recognized the NAACP for its diligent efforts on social programs that aim to eliminate racial hatred, bigotry and poverty.

Mayo noted how far the organization has come in the 25 years the county has offered the proclamations.

“Our nation is at a crossroads,” he said, questioning whether the country is going to continue as a democracy or fall into some kind of autocracy.

“It’s up to us to maintain this democracy that we have,” said Mayo, who called for the protection of voting and other rights.

He added that the Lake County government reflects the diversity of the community.

His cousin, St. Elmo Mosby, was with him to receive the presentation.

Mosby, who has lived in Lake County since 2004, said they both grew up in the South. He said he looks forward to the annual proclamations.

On Thursday, the Clearlake City Council followed up by offering its own proclamation to Mayo and the NAACP.

Mayo and his board members were on hand to receive the proclamation.

Mayo said the Clearlake community stands out in the state for recognizing diversity.

“Black history is American history,” said board member Kenneth Bagsby, adding they can look forward to a better day.

Board member Bessie Bell said she was proud of the police department under Chief Andrew White, noting the changes he’s brought. “I like what I see.”

She added, “Keep the good work up,” and said she is here to help.

Email Elizabeth Larson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Follow her on Twitter, @ERLarson, or Lake County News, @LakeCoNews.