FRANKFORT, Ky. (FOX 56) — The State Capitol was a packed house for the 2023 Black History presentation.

The Kentucky Black Legislative Caucus hosted the 2023 Black History Celebration with ‘Black History is American history’ as the theme. The day highlighted the progress made, and the work that still needs to be done. One of the many speakers was Rep. Pamela Stevenson.

“The impact of this racism on our communities, all communities, not just Black communities. It has an impact on all communities, and it’s still felt today,” Stevenson said.

The event brought lots of energy to celebrate the vital role influential figures have played in the State and Nation. Local elected officials of the Kentucky Black Caucus came to take it all in, like Selena Hudson. Hudson also serves on the Vine Grove City Council in Hardin County.

“Since 1976, Black History Month has been celebrated throughout Kentucky. It is overwhelming to see so many people here, and to see where it’s come from way back then to now is pretty amazing,” Hudson said.

Gov. Andy Beshear also attended the celebration, looking back at leaders who have shaped the nation for years to come.  

“There are leaders known worldwide like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Who said that when one commits themselves to the noble struggle for equal rights, they make themselves a better person. They make a greater nation of their country, and they make a finer world to live in,” Beshear said.

Brig. Gen. Charles Young was a big focal point, he was posthumously promoted to brigadier general after overcoming years of discrimination. Efforts that will be celebrated year after year.

“We just wanted to be here to show our support. I wouldn’t have missed it. I come every year anyway, but this was a very special year for the caucus,” Hudson said.

Charles Blatcher III, chairman of the National Coalition of Black Veteran Organizations and a U.S. Navy veteran, provided this year’s keynote address while also discussing recent efforts to designate a 98-mile stretch of U.S. Highway 68 as the “Brig. Gen. Charles Young Corridor.”