Georgia Department of Corrections Facilities Celebrate Black History Month

Commissioner: Timothy C. Ward

Director of Public Affairs: Joan Heath

Commemorating influential African Americans

FORSYTH, Ga. — In honor of Black History Month, many of the Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) facilities held programs to remember and celebrate influential African Americans throughout history. The observance of Black History month focuses on the accomplishments of African Americans, and their positive role in the history of the United States.

“Celebrating Black History Month allows our offenders the opportunity to educate and encourage positive behavior throughout the facility,” said Timothy C. Ward, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Corrections. “Black History Month programs offer staff and offenders a time to reflect and honor those who came before us.”

Many facilities held ceremonies throughout the month of February honoring various aspects of African American history. Lee Arrendale State Prison (SP) hosted a program that contained a variety of acts which honored today’s impactful leaders such as Tyler Perry, Oprah, and Beyoncé. Dooly SP presented a program called “Under Standing Black History, Our Heroes, Our Achievements, Our Tomorrow,” by singing and reciting poetry about famous African American heroes and athletes.  Walker SP honored modern-day and historic African Americans such as Kobe Bryant, and Martin Luther King through tributes, songs and re-enactments which reminded offenders of the contributions that have been offered throughout the nation.

About the Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC)

The Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) has one of the largest prison systems in the U.S. and is responsible for supervising nearly 52,000 state prisoners. It is the largest law enforcement agency in the state with approximately 10,500 employees. For more information on the GDC, call 478-992-5247 or visit https://gdc.georgia.gov.