Butch Gibson’s Post

Some of you may remember ‘Linsanity’. 10 years ago, an NBA player named Jeremy Lin had the most amazing and unlikely start to a major league sports franchise than most of us can remember. I was on a plane last week and spotted a short documentary about this with a weird name - ’38 at the Garden’. It you are looking to be inspired, check this show out. I vaguely remembered the main plot and enjoyed the core story of how someone who was stereotyped and then shunned had persevered through it and shined brightly. It’s a great story in its own right – not only inspiring but has some ‘teachable moments’ for us all. But……without giving too much away, it ends with an achievement that I never knew about called ‘The Wave Off’. Jeremy Lin hit a game-winning shot in the most audacious manner possible. And though most of us aren’t pro athletes, the show explains how this particular shot was a positive template of how all of us could approach challenges and opportunities. What if we had the same audacity and confidence as Jeremy Lin displayed at that moment when he hit the shot? In Lin’s words “This is who I am, this is what I prepared for, and this is what I’m capable of. All you gotta do is watch and see”. How many moments in our own lives do we pass up the ball or hold ourselves small? Not audition for that thing, not put you name as #1 on a sign in sheet. How many times did I not wave someone off. It was a heroic moment that was bigger than basketball. It broke a stereotype and gave all of us a bit of inspiration to show what we’re capable of. Check it out.

In this latest episode, we then delve into the enduring legacy of O.J. Simpson, examining the sensational trial that captivated the world, its lasting impact on the American legal system, and the ongoing societal reverberations. Three decades after the trial, we reflect on how it continues to illuminate deep-seated racial divides in America, reminding us of the complexities of justice, media influence, and cultural perceptions.

Since 2021, the NFL has included “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” in the Super Bowl in honor of Black History Month. This year, the criticism seemed louder, calling the song divisive and even offensive to our national anthem. Some even booed Andra Day as she belted out the inspirational tune. Much of that criticism stems from the song’s nickname as the Black National Anthem. 📚Quick History Lesson James Weldon Johnson wrote, “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” as a poem in honor of Abraham Lincoln’s birthday. His brother set it to music and a group of school children performed it for a celebration for the late president. Fast forward to 1919, one of the most violent years for Black Americans post Civil War. The NAACP declared “Lift Every Voice and Sing” their official song. They began promoting it as the Black National Anthem and as a rallying cry for the fight for freedom and justice. In 1919, the United States did not have a national anthem. We didn’t get that until 1931 when Congress officially made the “Star Spangled Banner” our national anthem. So is “Lift Every Voice and Sing” divisive? I’d say quite the opposite. The song doesn’t say lift Black voices, but every voice. Singing it is recognizing and honoring our history. It doesn’t replace or compete with our national anthem. It is a song that inspires and envisions liberty and justice for all. For those who take issue with its 125 year old nickname, is it the semantics that’s the issue or just the concept of freedom and justice for all? https://lnkd.in/eTmg8MJJ #lifteveryvoiceandsing #blackhistorymonth #blacknationalanthem #nfl #superbowl #andraday #nationalanthem #bhm #dei #diversityequityinclusion #superbowl2024 #diversity #historyfacts #historylessons #naacp

The participation of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. members in Usher's Super Bowl halftime show performance holds significant cultural and symbolic importance. Kappa Alpha Psi is a historically Black fraternity founded in 1911 at Indiana University Bloomington, with a mission centered around achievement in every field of human endeavor. Its inclusion in such a high-profile event as the Super Bowl halftime show serves multiple purposes: 1.      Visibility and Representation: The presence of Kappa Alpha Psi members alongside Usher, a global superstar, at an event watched by millions worldwide provides a platform for showcasing the fraternity's traditions, culture, and the broader historical and cultural significance of Black Greek letter organizations (BGLOs) in America. It highlights the fraternity's legacy and contributions to community service, leadership, and academic excellence. 2.      Cultural Celebration: The Super Bowl halftime show is a cultural touchstone in the United States, blending sports, music, and entertainment. The performance celebrates African American culture and heritage by incorporating elements of Kappa Alpha Psi, such as their steps, chants, or symbolism, showcasing the rich traditions of Black fraternities and sororities to a broader audience. 3.      Solidarity and Support: Usher's decision to include members of Kappa Alpha Psi in his performance can also be seen as an expression of solidarity and support for the African American community and its institutions. It recognizes the importance of Black fraternities and sororities in fostering community, leadership, and academic achievement among their members. 4.      Empowerment and Inspiration: For young African Americans, seeing members of Kappa Alpha Psi performing in such a significant and mainstream event can be empowering and inspiring. It demonstrates the impact and relevance of BGLOs in contemporary society and encourages young people to aspire to achievement and service. 5.      Networking and Collaboration: Usher's and Kappa Alpha Psi's collaboration for the Super Bowl halftime show highlights the potential for partnerships between artists and community organizations. Such collaborations can open doors for further engagements, projects, and initiatives that benefit broader communities and causes. In summary, the inclusion of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. members in the Super Bowl halftime show with Usher serves as a powerful statement of cultural pride, representation, and the enduring significance of historically Black fraternities and sororities in the fabric of American society. #LifememberofKappaAlphaPsiFraternityInc #Achievementineveryfieldofhumanendeavor  

Black Americans have been swag surfin' for 15 years. If you've been to Black cultural events, especially ones frequented by Black Millennials, in the past 15 years and there's music, you know. And if you went to an #hbcu, I'm preaching to the choir. So why did a dozen publications (from legacy and major publications to niche sports publications) write about swag surfin' in the past week as though it's a new phenomenon while failing to mention its origins (one later issued a correction) as a Black cultural ritual solidified into tradition by historically Black colleges? Because the media still thinks cultural competency is a DEI buzzword and not even a nice-to-have in the newsroom. A culturally competent editor, however, could have saved a dozen publications from publishing inaccurate content these past several days. It could have stopped a sports publication from crediting Gen Z as the purveyors of swag surfin'. And, it could have saved the publications that were at least accountable enough to issue corrections with having to do so. #culturalcompetency #blackinmedia #blackjournalists #writingcommunity #dei #taylorswift

It’s #TalkToMeThursday and let’s talk K.Dot. I have so many thoughts about last night’s Juneteenth concert, “The Pop Out: Ken & Friends” but here are my top 3. It is my belief that we as business leaders can all learn something from the brilliance that was displayed last night. 1) It was MARKETING BRILLIANCE. Kendrick sold out Kia Forum, invited a bunch of his friends and did it for the culture. He even partnered with Amazon Prime Video to livestream to the world. 2) It was CREATIVE BRILLIANCE. The set list was crazy, and the fact that he closed with “Not Like Us” FIVE TIMES tells you all you need to know. And, despite doing a whole diss track set list, the message was about UNITY. 3) It was COMPETITIVE BRILLIANCE. In a world where there’s a constant battle for market share and saturation at every turn, standing out is really, really hard. What Kendrick Lamar pulled off was masterful and embodied precisely why he said there’s no big three, “it’s just big me.” #Leadership #Competition #Marketing #Creativity #Business #Juneteenth #Freedom #Music

This day in history: Legends were made and records shattered, as we reflect on some of the most captivating moments in the world of sports. - 1960: The first televised U.S. presidential debate was broadcast, featuring candidates John F. Kennedy and Richard M. Nixon, marking a significant moment in American political history and the intersection of politics and media. - 1969: The American sitcom "The Brady Bunch" premiered on ABC, becoming an enduring pop culture phenomenon that influenced family television shows for decades. - 1998: Cal Ripken Jr. broke Lou Gehrig's record for most consecutive games played, achieving 2,131 games, in a historic moment celebrated at Camden Yards. - 1908: Chicago Cubs' Ed Reulbach became the only pitcher to throw a doubleheader shutout, winning 3-0 and 5-0 against the Brooklyn Superbas. - 1931: Connie Mack's Philadelphia Athletics clinched their third consecutive American League pennant, highlighting their dominance in early 20th-century baseball. - 1962: The American TV series "The Beverly Hillbillies" debuted on CBS, becoming one of the most popular sitcoms of the 1960s and a cultural icon. - 1969: The Beatles released their last-recorded album, "Abbey Road," which, although not the last released, remains one of the most influential albums in music history. #ThisDayInHistory #SportsLegends #HistoricalMoments #PoliticalHistory #CulturalIcon #PopCulture #BaseballHistory #TVHistory #MusicLegends #SportsRecords #AmericanHistory #Inspiration #HistoricEvents #MilestoneMoments #LegendaryAchievements #InfluentialMoments

It's #BlackHistoryMonth and this year's theme is #reclaimingthenarrative In the lead up to this month, I've been reflecting on the role I can play in helping to #reclaimthenarrative through active and intentional allyship 🤝 For me, this means listening, learning, and leveraging my voice to uplift Black voices that have historically been marginalized or misrepresented🗣 . It’s about recognizing that Black history is not separate from broader history, but an integral part of it📚 But reclaiming narratives isn't just about amplifying the voices of the past; it’s about creating a future where Black perspectives are central to how we shape society, policies, and culture 🌍 . Allies can help by advocating for equitable representation, calling out bias when they see it, and using their platforms to elevate the contributions of Black individuals—both past and present 📢 This powerful performance by Dave really encapsulated the importance of this year's theme for me, demonstrating the crucial role that music and the arts can play in #reclamingnarratives 🎶 : https://lnkd.in/e2Tyk27c #AllyshipInAction #ReclaimingNarratives #BlackHistoryMonth2024 #AmplifyBlackVoices

Just a few random questions I had on my ride out east today: Can someone write a guide to wholeness for toxic people? Can the powers that be in Hollywood make a modern Columbo movie with Mark Ruffalo as the title character? Still along the entertainment lines, who do I need to talk to in order to have Gaga play in a biopic honoring Barbra Streisand? Is this already in the works…I see a movie based on the best-selling autobiography (so good). How can I fit in and be my authentic self at the same time when I’ve never actually fit? What if Donald wins? What if Kamala wins? What’s the story with Mayor Adams? And his crew? Is it too late to drop a mixtape? Why haven’t humans evolved to a place where we understand everyone’s life is important — whether we like them or not? Did I read that correctly that 1 BRIC = US$52? Why didn’t get my degrees framed and mounted yet? How much caffeine is too much? What if you got everything you asked for in this year of yes, would you embrace all of it? Where have all the cowboys gone…ahoooo?

SELF DISCOVERY: DO YOU REALLY KNOW WHO YOU ARE? Knowing who you are is an important aspect of personal growth and self-discovery. Understanding your values, strengths, and weaknesses can help you make informed decisions and lead a fulfilling life. Here are some steps to help you know yourself better: 1. Figure out what you like and don't like: Take the time to explore your interests and passions. Pay attention to the activities and subjects that bring you joy and those that don't resonate with you. 2. Examine your strengths and challenges: Reflect on your abilities and areas where you excel. Also, be honest with yourself about your weaknesses and areas that require improvement. 3. Assess what brings you comfort: Pay attention to the situations, environments, and activities that make you feel comfortable and at ease. This can give you insight into your preferences and needs. 4. Record your thoughts and emotions in a journal: Writing down your thoughts and emotions can help you gain clarity and understand your inner world better. Regular journaling can provide valuable insights into your values, beliefs, and desires. 5. Take a personality test: Consider taking a personality test, such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or the Big Five Personality Traits test. These assessments can provide a framework for understanding your personality traits and tendencies. 6. Probe deeper to learn your core values: Reflect on the principles and beliefs that guide your life. Identify the values that are most important to you and strive to align your actions with them. 7. Question whether or not you are living the life you are proud of: Evaluate whether your current lifestyle and choices align with your values and aspirations. If not, consider making changes to live a life that reflects your true self. 8. Ask yourself what you would love to do if money wasn't an issue: Explore your passions and dreams without the constraints of financial limitations. This can help you uncover your true desires and aspirations. 9. Determine how your life would be if you weren't afraid of failing: Imagine a life without fear of failure. Consider the risks you would take and the opportunities you would pursue. This exercise can reveal your hidden potential and aspirations. 10. Ask others their interpretation of you as a person: Seek feedback from trusted friends, family members, or mentors. Their perspective can provide valuable insights into how others perceive you and your strengths. Remember, self-discovery is a journey that takes time and introspection. Be patient with yourself and embrace the process of getting to know who you truly are. Today’s Challenge Do you know who you are? Take the journey of self-discovery and find out who you truly are beyond the surface level everyday life you live. There may be more to you than you have taken time to reflect on. Discovered something new about yourself recently