Press Release

PUC Chair Dutrieuille Recognizes Black History Month and Highlights Upcoming State Observance Program

Published on 2/9/2023

Filed under: Consumer Education Electric Gas Motor Carrier Pipeline Rails Telecommunications Transportation and Safety Water and Wastewater

‘Black Resistance’ is the 2023 National Theme and Features in Pennsylvania’ Black History Month Program on February 23

HARRISBURG – Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) Chairman Gladys Brown Dutrieuille today recognized the role of resistance as a mechanism for social change and economic equity and justice – in connection with this year’s national Black History Month theme – Black Resistance.

“Resistance is a key element in the progress Black people have made in the continuing push for social and economic equity and justice. And the advances we have made are the direct result of the strength of current and past generations, and their courage to resist.

“It is inherent for us all to push back – to resist – with all our might, against the forces of oppression, discrimination, and prejudice.  Working together – as individuals, groups, congregations, businesses, and institutions – we can continue the fight for freedom, justice, and equality, and continue to transform our society, our country, and our world.”

Pennsylvania Black History Month Celebration

Chairman Dutrieuille also encouraged the public to participate in an upcoming program hosted by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Multi-Agency Black History Month Committee.  This year’s virtual Black History Month program will be held at noon on Thursday, Feb. 23, 2023.

The national theme for Black History Month 2023 is Black Resistance, which explores how African Americans have fought repression from America's earliest days. The event will consist of a series of speakers that will focus on the Church, Education, Media, and Voting, and how these areas resisted historic oppression.  The virtual event on February 23 is meant to bridge cultures, stimulate discussion, and serve as a message of encouragement.

The annual Black History Month event is free and open to the public.  More information and a link for registration is available online at https://www.puc.pa.gov/upcoming-events/black-history-month-2023.

About the PUC

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

Visit the PUC’s website at www.puc.pa.gov for recent news releases and video of select proceedings. You can also follow us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube. Search for the “Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission” or “PA PUC” on your favorite social media channel for updates on utility issues and other helpful consumer information.

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Contact:

• Nils Hagen-Frederiksen
  Press Secretary
  717-418-2701
  nhagen-fre@pa.gov