PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, Black History Month affords special opportunity to become more knowledgeable about black heritage, and to honor the many black leaders who have contributed to the progress of our nation; and
WHEREAS, the City of Bossier City recognizes and celebrates Black History Month by honoring a few standout leaders in our community; and
WHEREAS, Alice Marie Jeter was born January 7, 1944, to Lula & Rufus Jeter, Sr. in Bossier Parish, LA. As the oldest of 12 children she had to quit school to help support her family. She worked as a domestic worker in Bossier Parish until 1971. In 1972 she became a cafeteria worker at Parkway High School where she worked for 35 years. Life was often hard and unfair, but Alice Jeter never backed down. She taught herself and her family the skills needed to survive in an ever changing and, often hostile, environment. In Bossier City Alice Jeter became a force to be reckoned with. She saw the world differently than many and in a quiet, respectful way she stood her ground. Seeing value where others saw insignificance, planting hope when many around her felt hopeless. This beautiful commitment to make life better for those around her made her dreams about community a reality.
WHEREAS, Ms. Jeter has earned a reputation of excellence and has served on many civic boards, including Keep Bossier Beautiful, Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse, Bossier Council on Aging and the Barksdale Annual Neighborhood Association where she serves as President. For many years, Ms. Jeter has personally supervised individuals who were given community service by the court system. She could often be found walking with them picking up litter while sharing encouragement and truth along the way. Community Parades, Thanksgiving Dinners, Juneteenth Celebrations, Back to School Rally’s and even a shelter for displaced victims of Hurricane Katrina – all of these examples of Ms. Jeter’s beautiful commitment to make life better for those around her; and
WHEREAS, every community has a hero and Bossier City has Alice Jeter. Her servant leadership is matched only by the twinkle in her eye. The City of Bossier City is honored to recognize Ms. Jeter. Thank you, for making our community a better place.
NOW, THERFORE, I THOMAS H. CHANDLER, Mayor, of the City of Bossier City, do hereby proclaim TUESDAY, February 21, 2023, as “Black American Leadership Recognition Day” in Bossier City, and ask our citizens to join us in honoring these outstanding Black American Leaders whose lives have shaped our community.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the city to be affixed.
Thomas H. Chandler
Mayor