A Message From Sean Carlson

Oakland County Deputy Executive

Once upon a time in America, a proud and resilient people arrived on these shores. Though their dreams were met with shackles, their spirit could not be contained. They defied limitations, replacing them with brilliance. Their contributions became a boundless treasure, shaping every facet of American life. They helped settle the West. They created the soul of American music. Through acts of courage, they stood for human dignity and justice. They have cultivated leaders for generations to come. Their legacy is woven into the very fabric of this nation, a testament to perseverance, innovation, and excellence. At Oakland County, we recognize that America’s strength lies in its diversity. This Black History Month, we are proud to honor the invaluable contributions of Black Americans by celebrating Black veterans, supporting Black-owned businesses, and promoting the Black History Month events in and around Oakland County. We invite you to join us in this celebration—not just this month, but every day—as we walk forward together, building on a legacy of greatness and adding to the treasure that enriches us all.

Honoring Black Veterans

Veteran Services Celebrates Black History Month

Watch our special Veteran Services Video created in honor of Black History Month!
View the video at: youtu.be/Xdri0h4YPDk

Bloomfield Hills Veteran, One of the Last Surviving Combat Pilots in the Tuskegee Airmen, Dies at 100

Lt. Col. Harry T. Stewart Jr. was one of two of the last surviving combat pilots in World War II’s 332nd Fighter Group known as the Tuskegee Airmen. He earned the Distinguished Flying Cross for his bravery escorting U.S. bombers during WWII and his heroic actions in combat. According to the Tuskegee Airmen National Historical Museum, he was only one of four Tuskegee Airmen who shot down three enemy aircraft in a single day. He also was part of the team that won the Air Force’s first Top Gun Aerial Combat competition in 1949. After the war, Stewart went to college and graduated from New York University with a degree in mechanical engineering. He then became a vice president at Detroit’s ANR Pipeline Co., where he retired. “Harry Stewart was a kind man of profound character and accomplishment with a distinguished career of service he continued long after fighting for our country in World War II,” said Brian Smith, President and CEO of the Tuskegee Airmen National Historical Museum. “We are deeply saddened by his passing and extend our condolences to his family and friends around the world.” To read the full article, visit: tinyurl.com/mejh4tkf

Special Minority-Owned Business Opportunity

Oakland County Revolving Loan Fund: Virtual Orientation

March 14, 2025  |  8:30 - 9:30 AM

Did you know the Oakland County Revolving Loan fund was created specifically for women- and/or minority-owned businesses?

Engaging and Learning About Black History

Black History 101 Mobile Museum

To help kick off Black History Month 2025, the Oakland County Executive Office gave employees the opportunity to learn about the rich legacy of Black Americans by hosting the Black History 101 Mobile Museum. Founded by Detroit native and educator Khalid el-Hakim, Ph.D., this 30-year-old collection boasts authentic documents bearing the signatures of revered figures – including Black History Month founder Carter G. Woodson. Learn more at: BlackHistoryMobileMuseum.com

See the recap video here: facebook.com/reel/1281338649790011

Black History Month Celebrations in Oakland County

To learn more about Black history and culture, check out this list of upcoming events, including musical and dance performances, interactive workshops, and more throughout February in and around Oakland County.

Learn more: oaklandcountyblog.com/things-to-do/black-history-month-events-in-oakland-county/

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