February 16

On February 16, 1945, Governor Ernest Gruening signed the Alaska Equal Rights Act into law, marking a historic milestone in U.S. civil rights legislation. The act prohibited discrimination based on race, creed, or color in schools, public places, transportation, and housing throughout the Alaska Territory. Local activists, including Alaska Native leaders and civil rights advocates, lobbied vigorously for the law to end entrenched segregation practices. The legislation set a precedent that would influence later federal civil rights measures and is celebrated as a pioneering achievement in American equality. By affirming the rights of all residents, the act strengthened community cohesion and advanced social justice in Alaska.

The Hirak movement, which began on February 22, 2019, mobilized millions of Algerians demanding the end of President Bouteflika’s long tenure and broader political reforms. After a pause in public gatherings due to the COVID-19 pandemic, activists in Kherrata resumed demonstrations on February 16, 2021. Participants carried banners calling for accountability, free elections, and an end to systemic corruption. Security forces monitored the protests closely, resulting in a number of arrests but no major clashes. Social media played a key role in organizing the event and sharing real-time updates. The anniversary rally underscored the movement’s resilience despite government restrictions and public health concerns. Observers noted that the protests continued to shape Algeria’s political discourse two years on.