McClinton served in the U.S. Army for 10 years during the Desert Storm/Persian Gulf era. In addition to her work with the Black Veterans for Social Justice, the New York City native also represents Brooklyn on the Mayor’s Veterans Advisory Board and is an administrator with the National Association for Black Veterans.

“During [Black History Month], it is just as important to celebrate the contributions of blacks in the military as it has ever been,” McClinton said. “The reason why I want you to know and adopt along with me the pithy title [of] #UsToo.”

McClinton talked about the history of African-Americans fighting in the U.S. military and some of the hardships soldiers face to this day. She explained that the African-American community is still at war as their communities face crime, drugs, violence and displacement.

“Historically, African Americans in the military are unsung heroes who triumphed over oppression and prejudice and in the process found themselves at the intersection of history, innovation and race relations,” she explained. “As Americans of all race and creeds, we must embrace each day as an opportunity to do better, to be better, to serve more, empower others and always remember #UsToo.”

The ceremony also featured speeches from administrative judges Hon. Matthew D’Emic and Hon. Lawrence Knipel. Cassandra Allen, who has become a mainstay during Black History Month, sang the national anthem, the black national anthem, and War by Charles Jenkins & Fellowship Chicago.

“What is the reason that so much work is devoted to this month’s history, and all of our court’s ethnic, religious, racial celebrations like Black History Month,” D’Emic asked rhetorically. “It is a celebration, but it’s much more than that. It’s a way we accompany each other through our shared and yet distinct history, with respect and sensitively. I think we all agree that’s something we need more of in the world today.”

Other speakers included Chief Clerk Charles Small; Aimee Richter, president of the Brooklyn Bar Association; Michele Mirman, president of the Brooklyn Women’s Bar Association; and Michael Cibella, president of the Kings County Criminal Bar Association. Their respective bar associations helped to sponsor the celebration.

Two people who were not in attendance who were recognized were Hon. Yvonne Lewis and the late Izetta Johnson. The duo was largely responsible for making the Brooklyn courts’ Black History Month celebration what it is today.

The Brooklyn court system will host various Black History Month events in various courthouses throughout February. Some of the highlights include a celebrations in the Criminal Court on Feb. 16, Family Court on Feb. 22, and in the Civil Court on Feb. 23. On Feb. 26 there will be a Black History Month version of Let’s Make a Deal at 320 Jay St. and the month is wrapped up with the annual fashion show in the lobby of 360 Adams St. on Feb. 28. All events are scheduled for 1 p.m.

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