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WHEREAS, FroGang was founded in December 2017 by Kelli Shakur to empower and foster self-love in young black girls through natural hair acceptance, proper haircare, and hair history knowledge; and,
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WHEREAS, FroGang combats hair insecurities created by societal pressures and discrimination against natural hair; and,
WHEREAS, FroGang through the combined efforts of its members, including Creative Coordinator Candace Walker and over 50 volunteers, have since then expanded their efforts to empower all black youths throughout the City of Pittsburgh, the United States, and internationally with multiple initiatives; and,
WHEREAS, these initiatives include the “Black Doll Giveaway”, which has given away 5,960 free dolls to children in Pittsburgh, Alabama, Texas, Arizona, and Florida, Kenya, and Ethiopia; “Read More, Black Boy”, which has given away 687 books; and,
WHEREAS, FroGang has organized Smoothies and Juices for COVID-19 events to encourage a healthier community through vaccination and other community events to encourage and protect the wellbeing of black youths so they may thrive in adulthood; and,
WHEREAS, other community efforts include the creation of a neighborhood pantry, revitalizing the neighborhood by partnering with ReLeaf Pittsburgh with tree plantings and giveaways; and,
WHEREAS, upcoming efforts include helping Ugandan communities build up a water system for access to clean fresh water, and cultivating FroGang Lots of Love into a safe outdoor space for live book and poetry readings, talent shows, and more; and,
WHEREAS, FroGang and its founder Kelli Shakur has exemplified the humanitarian spirit that helps make the City of Pittsburgh into one with thriving communities; and,
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the Council of the City of Pittsburgh recognizes July 13th, 2024 as “FroGang Day” in the City of Pittsburgh.