Illinois comptroller honors Springfield residents in Black History Month ceremony

A Springfield Police officer and a middle school coach received certificates of recognition in a ceremony led by Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza in honor of Black History Month.

Officer Timara Pflug, founder of the Doll House Project, and Barbara Montgomery, a track and field coach and physical education teacher at Franklin Middle School, were celebrated for their achievements Thursday, before family and friends.

“Each February America honors the rich history of African American struggles, achievements, and hard-earned successes," Mendoza said. "But it isn't just about recognizing the past, this month is intended to recognize those individuals who are making great contributions to our history and culture today.”

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Pflug said she was taken aback when she received notice about being honored for her work with the DollHouse Project. She said she was excited but she also thought it was a joke.

"Usually when I think about the Dollhouse Project and where it will be in the future, I don't think about the certificates or something I'll be honored for, I think about how many lives I can potentially impact," Pflug said. "Being honored for something like this is a blessing and It made me realize that I am doing the right thing because sometimes I'm not sure if I am or not. I just ask God to set a path for me."

The recognition for Montgomery also came as a shock, even after serving Springfield Public schools for 30 years. She plans to retire in June and said she was grateful to be honored.

"I've been teaching and coaching for over 30 years so this is just what I do, it's my lifestyle," she said. "I didn't think I did anything special but I'm truly blessed to be honored for this work. It's what I do all the time and I'm happy."

Mendoza said no matter how long she's in public office, "it would never be long enough to properly honor all of the people whose contributions help our state. We must acknowledge the contributions of Black Illinoisans not just this month but every day of the year."

Earlier in the week, Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs celebrated the month with a ceremony recognizing people from across the state including Decatur, Champaign, Peoria, and East St. Louis. The General Assembly also approved a resolution designating Feb. 28 as Black Women's History Day.

The resolution was co-sponsored by Sen. Doris Turner, D-Springfield, and seeks to encourage "all Illinoisans and their families to acknowledge, in word and in deed, the accomplishments of Black women in places where they live, work, and play."

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This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Springfield residents honored in Black History ceremony