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Alton Ford spoke at the John M. Pope Industrial Technology Center on South Georgia Technical College on February 27 for Black History Month.

Rev. Glenn Bryant gave the invocation. Dr. John Watford, South Georgia Technical College President gave the welcome. Lynn Williams performed several stirring selections. Janeisha Brown, SGTC Cosmetology Instructor Trainee, gave the reading.

Ford gave the keynote address. Ford is one of the Board of Directors at South Georgia Technical College. He retired from Flint Energies as the Supervisor of Member Solutions, having spent 39 years with the company.

Ford traced the history of Black History Month. “56 years ago, Black History Month started in 1969. We know that during that time period, it was tough.” He noted President Gerald Ford’s recognition of the celebration, which was later recognized by Congress.

Ford showed gratitude for the many individuals who made the celebration possible, including historian Carter G. Woodson and Minister Jesse E. Moreland, who co-founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History. He noted the opposition the two men faced. “Many individuals fought against the recognition of the inventions and achievements of the black race. Many fought against this, and they’re still fighting against it today.”

Ford stressed the value of the contributions of those gathered. “You are important. Each and every one of you in this room today is important.” Ford challenges his audience, regardless of race, to add to history together. “I’m going to challenge you to make history today. All races need to stand together and make history together.”