The Senate of the State of Texas has adopted a resolution recognizing 125 years of Black aviation history, in collaboration with the National Aviation Education Center and the Commemorative Air Force. This resolution highlights the significant contributions of Black innovators and aviators who, despite facing severe challenges during the Jim Crow era, played a crucial role in the development of modern aviation. It acknowledges early pioneers such as John Frederick Pickering and Charles Frederick Page, who applied for aviation patents before the Wright brothers' first flight, and emphasizes the achievements of the Tuskegee Airmen during World War II, who broke racial barriers and set the stage for future civil rights advancements.
The resolution culminates in a celebration held on February 21 and 22, 2025, at the Henry B. Tippie National Aviation Education Center, honoring the legacy of Black trailblazers in aviation as part of Black History Month. The Texas Senate pays tribute to these pioneering individuals and their enduring impact on aeronautics, ensuring that their contributions are recognized and celebrated. A copy of the resolution will be prepared to commemorate this significant occasion.