Bentonville, Ark. - During the month of February, Wal-Mart once again presents a nationwide program in celebration of Black History Month. For the fifth consecutive year, Wal-Mart shoppers will have the chance to take home free copies of unique, inspiring and educational publications for entire families to enjoy and treasure.
"At Wal-Mart, we celebrate diversity 365 days a year," said Esther Silver-Parker, vice president diversity relations. "We are proud to offer these special publications in honor of Black History Month, to provide a combination of information and inspiration as well as useful and practical resources to empower families to chart their history and preserve their heritage.”
For 2005, these publications include the all-new “Profiles in Pride” booklet featuring prominent African Americans who have made significant contributions to society. Now in its fifth year of publication, “Profiles in Pride” presents stories of traditions, dreams and success. Each African American featured in the booklet shares his or her story of achievement, as well as a favorite family recipe.
More than 8 million copies of these publications have been distributed throughout the country and have featured such prominent individuals as Maya Angelou, Rosa Parks, Ruby Dee and Ossie Davis, Andrew Young, Coretta Scott King and Dr. Ben Carson. This year’s booklet includes Judge Nathaniel R. Jones, Patti LaBelle and Gunion “Guy” Bluford among others. Made possible by contributions from Kraft Foods, the booklet is distributed free (while quantities last) from Kraft Black History Month displays in more than 3000 Wal-Mart stores throughout the country in February 2005. The booklet can also be seen on walmartstores.com during February.
Also new this year is the exciting “Milestones in History” Timeline. This keepsake piece is likely to become one of the most requested publications in the program’s history. The over-sized timeline will unfold to nearly five feet in length and will surely be displayed in homes and classrooms alike to show a proud history. One side of the “Milestones in History” Timeline highlights African-American political and social history as well as scientific and cultural milestones. The reverse side features a family heritage timeline that members of all generations can fill in to honor their own history with meaningful milestones and memories. Sponsored by Colgate Palmolive, the timeline is available free in selected Wal-Mart stores.
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. operates Wal-Mart Stores, Supercenters, Neighborhood Markets and SAMS CLUB locations in the United States. Internationally, the company operates in Argentina, Brazil, Canada, China, Germany, Japan, Mexico, Puerto Rico, South Korea and the United Kingdom. The companys securities are listed on the New York and Pacific stock exchanges under the symbol WMT. More information about Wal-Mart can be found by visiting www.walmartfacts.com; Online merchandise sales are available at www.walmart.com.
# # #