As Black History Month gets underway, community members are being recognized for their service to the Black community in West Haverstraw.

On Wednesday, Mayor Robert D'Amelio and the Village Board honored Regional NAACP Director Wilbur Aldridge and several others for their

contributions in Rockland County.

Aldridge spoke Wednesday night about the importance of celebrating Black History Month.

"Black History Month is so important to African Americans. It is very easy to forget that we do make history and we make it every day. So it's

important to recognize and this the one time that our people are recognized for their contributions to the Black African American community," said

Aldridge.

Aldridge is being recognized for advocating for human rights and promoting fair opportunities for all in the Hudson Valley.