Dr. Eileen Borris’ Post

🌟 Celebrating Black History Month: A Reflection and Call to Action As we immerse ourselves in the celebration of Black History Month, it's crucial to acknowledge not only the progress made but also the work that still lies ahead. This month is an opportunity to honor the resilience, achievements, and joy within the Black community. Yet, it is equally important to confront the ongoing challenges such as anti-DEI laws, the racial (and sexist) wage gap, police brutality, and systemic inequalities. Malcolm X's powerful words remind us that black women, in particular, continue to be disproportionately affected and often unprotected. In the spirit of this month, let's amplify the voices and experiences that shape Black history, both the triumphs and the ongoing struggles. As we commemorate and celebrate, let's also recognize our collective responsibility to advocate for change. This Black History Month, let us actively engage in discussions, learn from each other, and work towards a more equitable and just future. Together, as allies, we can contribute to dismantling barriers and fostering a society where everyone is truly seen, heard, and valued. 🔗 #BlackHistoryMonth #CelebrateAchievements #SocialJustice #DEI "The future belongs to those who prepare for it today." - Malcolm X 🌟✊🏽✊🏾✊🏿

This Black History Month, we're highlighting influential Black voices and organizations who have made an impact on health equity and policy. In an October 2023 Narrative Matters essay, Alexis Grant-Panting reflects on why Black women like her have come to fear their birth experiences. Read the full essay: https://hubs.la/Q02jWZnK0

This Black History Month, let's critically examine media representation and beauty standards. The image highlights how the beauty industry often falls short in embracing diversity, particularly for Black women. It's crucial we challenge narrow ideals and celebrate beauty in all shades. Recent advertising missteps, like the controversial Heinz campaign, remind us that harmful stereotypes persist, even unintentionally. The advert, which sparked backlash for its portrayal of a Black family, notably omitted a father figure. This absence was discussed on ITV, highlighting how such portrayals can perpetuate damaging stereotypes about Black families. It underscores the urgent need for authentic storytelling and diverse voices in media and marketing. Let's champion narratives that showcase the full spectrum of Black experiences and family structures. True progress means moving beyond stereotypes to represent the richness and diversity of Black communities. This month, and always, we must advocate for inclusive representation that uplifts rather than marginalises. Change begins when we reclaim our stories and redefine beauty on our own terms. #BlackHistoryMonth #MediaRepresentation #InclusiveBeauty #ChangeTheNarrative Black History Month UK Bernie J Mitchell Deanna Tuitt Jacqueline Mayer (Boulos) Jamila Daley Ali K.

In recognition of Black History Month, we celebrate the many contributions Black Americans have made to the rich tapestry of our country’s story. We also note though that according to recent data from the Federal Reserve’s Survey of Consumer Finances, the racial wealth gap in America continues to expand. Whatever our individual situation, it’s important for all of us to take steps toward ensuring our financial health. For inspiration, here is a wonderful article about 10 successful Black women in finance. #BlackHistoryMonth #WomenInFinance #FinancialWellbeing https://bit.ly/4bsSLcK

Good morning, beautiful people. "Tell me, do you know what time it is? Tell me, do you know?" It's Black History Month. It is a month we recognize our history and those who will be a part of history because we understand there is always reflection in healing and transformation. We need to note that women are celebrated every month of the year; however, Black History Month is a time of reflection, celebration, and recognition of the achievements of black individuals throughout history. It’s also a time to acknowledge the unique experiences of black women and the healing that comes from this recognition. We know healing can be a profoundly personal journey, and for black women, it often involves navigating the intersection of race and gender in public, so it is also about acknowledging the pain of the past and celebrating the strength, resilience, and beauty of this struggle in the present. As we highlight and celebrate Black History Month, let’s also take the time to acknowledge the healing that comes from this recognition. Let’s celebrate the strength, courage, and grace of black women. Let's revel in the heroism of black women. Remember that their stories are an integral part of our shared history. Remember, Black History Month is not just about the past. It’s about acknowledging the ongoing contributions of black individuals, celebrating the progress made, and recognizing the work that still needs to be done. 😊 Mocktail: agave syrup, mint, ginger beer, and lime. #blackhistorymonth #blackwomenlead #blackwomenshealth #socialworkers #celebration

As we say goodbye to Black History Month, we must make a conscious effort to keep the struggles of Black and marginalized women top of mind all year round. Every woman's pain deserves equal attention and care, but the reality is that the experiences of Black women often go unrecognized and untreated compared to their Caucasian counterparts. Systemic biases and historical injustices have perpetuated this disparity, leaving Black women to navigate a healthcare system that consistently fails to prioritize their well-being. The history of gynecological experimentation on Black slaves is a harrowing reminder of the depths of systemic racism in medical practice. Driven by a perverse belief that Black women didn't experience pain in the same way as their white counterparts, these women were subjected to horrific procedures without anesthesia or consent. Their bodies were used as test subjects for surgeries and treatments, inflicting immense suffering and trauma. This legacy of exploitation and dehumanization continues to reverberate in modern healthcare disparities faced by Black women. It underscores the urgent need to confront and dismantle the deeply ingrained biases that persist in medical research and treatment. We all need to stand together to amplify the voices of Black women, advocate for their rights, and demand equitable access to healthcare and support services. Together, we can create a world where all women, regardless of race, are seen, heard, and valued.

This is a powerful piece by Dr. Shauna D. A. Knox —100% truth. Every word is worth reading and pondering. Too often, in a vain attempt to fit in or for expediency, we water down our thoughts and words, and our 'deal with the devil' begins. How complicit are we when we allow stereotypes of leadership to cloud our vision? As Latinos and Latinas, when we navigate professional spaces, including academia and the nonprofit/philanthropic sector, what 'deal with the devil' trade-off are we making about our own identity? What does it mean to be an ally for others? Will having Latinos and Latinas on Boards and as Trustees help when their best skill is navigating their survival and advancement in the existing structures, and they have never learned to change the practices and structures that marginalize Latinos and others? Can our daughters (and sons) ever have a fair chance to truly show up as they are if Black women aren't allowed the same consideration?

As Black History Month draws to a close, let's take a moment to reflect on the profound impact of this commemoration. It's been a time of remembrance, celebration, and learning—a time to honor the resilience, achievements, and contributions of the Black community throughout history. Yet, let us not confine our reflections to a single month. Instead, let's carry forward the spirit of Black History Month every day, recognizing that the journey towards equality and justice is ongoing. Let's continue to amplify Black voices, support Black-owned businesses, and advocate for systemic change. Let's commit ourselves to dismantling barriers, confronting bias, and building a more inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. 💫🖤 #BlackHistoryMonth #LegacyOfResilience #EveryDayIsHistory

In recognition of Black History Month, we celebrate the many contributions Black Americans have made to the rich tapestry of our country’s story. We also note though that according to recent data from the Federal Reserve’s Survey of Consumer Finances, the racial wealth gap in America continues to expand. Whatever our individual situation, it’s important for all of us to take steps toward ensuring our financial health. For inspiration, here is a wonderful article about 10 successful Black women in finance. #BlackHistoryMonth #WomenInFinance #FinancialWellbeing https://bit.ly/4bsSLcK