Black Economic Alliance’s Post

As we embark on Black History Month, it is a time to reflect on the rich tapestry of contributions that Black individuals have made to our country. This month is not just about acknowledging the past; it is about recognizing the present and building a more inclusive future.    Black History Month serves as a reminder that, together, we can create a world that reflects the beauty and strength of our collective differences.   In the spirit of Black History Month, I encourage all of us to consider the following:   📑 Educate Ourselves: Take the time to learn about the rich history, achievements, and contributions of Black individuals and communities. 🗣 Amplify Black voices: Listen actively to the experiences, stories, and perspectives of Black colleagues, friends, and community members. Create space for dialogue and reflection and strive to amplify and uplift Black voices in conversations and decision-making processes. 🎆 Take Action Beyond Black History Month: Allyship is not just a one-time gesture-it requires ongoing commitment and action.   Our celebration of Black History Month must be an ongoing narrative, shaping our present and future.   As we celebrate Black History Month, let's turn our reflection into action. Commit to being an ally, advocate for inclusivity, and work towards a future where everyone has equal opportunities to succeed.   Together, we can create positive change. Happy Black History Month!

In honor of Black History Month, we're spotlighting African-American members of the Side Community, including Sabrina Brown, founder of Pink Key Real Estate in Fresno, CA. Learn what Black History Month means to her and check out her #BHM recommendations below. What does Black History Month mean to you? I celebrate Black history every day, but Black History Month is a time for everyone to take a moment to celebrate and honor the resilience and creativity of the Black community in the face of adversity. It's a reminder of the ongoing work needed for equality and an opportunity to educate others about the rich and diverse cultural experiences within the Black community. What's your top Black History Month book, movie, or music recommendation? I have two recommendations. The first is the book The Color of Law, by Richard Rothstein, which explains how racially discriminatory housing practices and policies have contributed systemic injustices that have created racial disparities in housing, education, and wealth. It also recognizes the role of government in theses disparities.  The second is a very comprehensive report called The SHIBA Report, which provides real numbers and facts that impact and impede Black families from realizing the dream of homeownership. This report is put out every year by the National Association of Real Estate Brokers. NAREB is committed to changing the statistics through their members and industry relationships. Their goal is to continue to show Black families the issues that affect them and break down barriers.

February is Black History Month, a time to celebrate the history, culture, and achievements of Black Americans. It is also a time to acknowledge the challenges and injustices that they have faced and continue to face in our society. Black History Month is important for everyone, regardless of race or ethnicity, because it helps us learn from the past, appreciate the present, and envision the future. By honoring the stories and contributions of Black Americans, we can gain a deeper understanding of our shared history and values, and foster a culture of respect, belonging, and inclusion. Black History Month is also an opportunity to support and empower the Black community, especially in the fields of education, health, and economic development. There are many ways to do this, such as donating to organizations that work for racial justice, mentoring young Black professionals, or amplifying Black voices and perspectives. Black History Month is not just a month, but a movement. It is a movement that calls us to celebrate diversity, fight discrimination, and create positive change. I hope you will join us in honoring and celebrating Black History Month, not only in February, but every day of the year. To learn more, go to https://lnkd.in/gtsgxkbT

I hosted an event years ago called “The Neglected 337” which was a conversation about Black history being relegated to Black History Month. I am so proud of the efforts that contributed to the establishment of this celebratory month and others like it. However, I don’t believe the intent was to restrict the celebration and acknowledgment of the many facets of black history and culture to a single month- not any other cultural heritage observance. Similarly, the integration of historical education in diversity, equity, inclusion, justice and belonging initiatives was not so folks can pass a pop quiz about black historical facts nor to exploit the pain and suffering of black people for seasonal sympathetic experiences for folks. The true wealth of these celebrations is found in the way it broadens and expands what we see, believe, envision and create for black people, and thus our world. It is context to help shape and encourage new habits and behaviors to improve and enhance our society. We need more than a month to appropriately celebrate our history and culture. Black history and culture is world history and culture. The quality of our acknowledgment and appreciation of culture and heritage is the measure of the quality of our society.

February is Black History Month. A time to honor the countless contributions of Black people throughout history and their ongoing impact on the world we live in. Black history isn't just about the past. It's about celebrating the vibrant culture, art, music, and businesses that enrich our lives today. It's about amplifying Black voices and supporting Black-owned businesses. Let's use this month as an opportunity to: > Educate ourselves: Read books by Black authors, watch documentaries, and listen to podcasts about Black history and culture. > Support Black businesses: Shop at Black-owned stores, restaurants, and cafes. Donate to Black charities and organizations. > Amplify Black voices: Share stories and experiences of Black people on social media and in your conversations.

QUICK QUESTION: What is Black History Month? Black History Month is an annual observance in the United States and several other countries that honors the achievements and contributions of Black individuals throughout history. It originated in 1926 as "Negro History Week" and was expanded to a month-long celebration in 1976. The purpose of Black History Month is to recognize the struggles, accomplishments, and cultural heritage of Black people, as well as to raise awareness about issues related to racial equality and social justice. However, in a capitalist society, Black History Month has sometimes been co-opted by businesses as a marketing opportunity. This can lead to the commercialization of the month, with some companies using it as a marketing ploy to boost sales rather than genuinely celebrating the achievements of Black individuals or supporting Black communities. As a result, it's important for consumers to be mindful of how Black History Month is being used by businesses and to support Black-owned businesses and initiatives that authentically contribute to the empowerment and advancement of Black communities. Additionally, individuals and organizations can use this month as an opportunity to educate themselves and others about Black history, culture, and ongoing struggles for racial justice.

As Black History Month 2024 comes to a close, it is important to honor the work and the progress we have made in the fight for economic and racial justice - and to acknowledge how much more remains to be done. We must remain focused on building new pathways to economic prosperity even as we stand firm against efforts to claw back the pathways to Black opportunity. To that end, this month the BEA Foundation rolled out our Policy Agenda to Advance Black Work, Wages, and Wealth, which targets barriers to economic opportunity and outlines actionable steps for policymakers to drive Black prosperity and grow the entire economy. We are working with allies and partners to encourage policymakers to take action on the solutions in that agenda, which would make tangible, meaningful, and sustained progress toward expanding Black prosperity — and in doing so grow the economy as a whole. Not only is closing the racial wealth gap and eliminating structural racial economic disparities the next frontier of civil rights in this country, it benefits the American economy as a whole with the potential to increase the GDP by 4 to 6 points by 2028. As Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Wally Adeyemo said this Black History Month at an event co-hosted by the BEA Foundation and Spelman College two weeks ago, “We all know that Black America has helped build this country, we are core to what this country is. And in order for this country to succeed in the 21st century, we have to invest in Black America.”

February is Black History Month, the nation’s annual observance of the Black community's contributions to the United States. Its origins trace back to the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, founded by historian Carter G. Woodson and the prominent minister Jesse E. Moorland to research and promote achievements by Black Americans and other people of African descent. They chose the second week of February – the birth month of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass – and later expanded the observance to a month long celebration. In 1976, the federal government officially recognized Black History Month. President Gerald Ford urged Americans to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often-neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” During Black History Month, various cultural celebrations showcase the African American community, including music, dance, and art events. It acknowledges the challenges and triumphs that African Americans have experienced in the American story and offers people the chance to reflect on their struggles against racial discrimination and inequality. The theme of Black History Month for 2024 is “African Americans and the Arts.” For more information, click here: https://ow.ly/ZJiL50QwZQu Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital

Throughout February, we’re platforming Black leaders at our partner community organizations to share about their connection with Black history and their collaboration with UWNYC to reach communities of color. Today’s Black History Month Spotlight features Adame Belay, Atlas Functional Family Therapy - Adult Clinical Supervisor at RiseBoro Community Partnership. Through the Atlas initiative, UWNYC supports organizations like Riseboro as they empower justice-impacted youth through Functional Family Therapy- Adult (FFT-A). FFT-A practitioners like Adame work with a young person’s chosen family to help them develop stronger ties and build a brighter future. As FFT-A strengthens relationships, it allows communities to become more resilient, enhancing public safety. How does Black history and your own lived experience inform your work at your organization? “As a Black man, I can identify with some of my clients' lived experiences in and out of the clinical space and bear witness to hearing their stories. It's important to understand the importance of creating safe spaces for communication and healing. One is not defined by the criminal legal charges imposed upon them. I see each participant as a whole, dynamic, and unique person.  In my role, I seek to make them feel acknowledged, seen, and heard, which has a positive impact on their lives."   In your efforts to create positive change in New York City’s communities of color, how has United Way of New York City supported your work? "RiseBoro’s Atlas FFT-A program provides invaluable learning support and growth opportunities so family members can support participants in making informed decisions. Before their enrollment in FFT-A, some participants may not have had the opportunity to communicate their concerns and issues to anyone. This experience can be challenging to navigate, but we ensure hope and build an alliance, which can be the beginning stages of having restorative conversations that can bridge family ties."

Black History Month is a significant event celebrated in many parts of the world. It’s a time dedicated to honoring the history, achievements, and influence of Black individuals and communities. Here are some ways to celebrate: Educate Yourself and Others: Read books, watch documentaries, and listen to podcasts about Black history and culture. Share what you learn with others. Support Black-Owned Businesses: Make a conscious effort to support Black entrepreneurs and creators. Attend Events: Participate in local or virtual events such as lectures, performances, and exhibitions that celebrate Black history and culture. Acknowledge Contributions: Recognize the contributions of Black individuals in various fields like science, arts, politics, and more. Promote Inclusivity and Diversity: Advocate for diversity and inclusivity in your community and workplace. Remember, the celebration of Black history and culture extends beyond just one month. It’s important to continue these practices year-round. Let’s honor the past, inspire the future, and promote ongoing respect and understanding.