Katherine B.’s Post

It's February. Which means it's Black History Month. What does that mean for folks that look like me? It means it's our responsibility to not only give way to but to amplify Black voices. To consciously and intentionally de-center ourselves. AND, it's not a time to turn to our Black friends, colleagues, and others in our community to teach or educate us. That is our responsibility - in February AND throughout the year. I came across an article posted by the CBC in 2023 by Evelyn Bradley, a Black DEI consultant who spoke directly to this phenomenon. She said: "Blackness exists 365 days a year and to overwork your Black community for 28 days as a way to show compassion and a readiness to listen to the needs of Black people is an oxymoron." Bradley also suggests that to be an ally during Black History Month and beyond, it's important to focus on: * Always paying people fairly and adequately for their work (every time). * If you genuinely honor Black individuals, respect both their time and effort. For instance, don't wait until January (or even February) to ask for someone to speak at your event or give commentary on an article. * Above all, prioritize Black rest. Rest is revolutionary, not just as a way of making reparations. The misconception is that outside approval is needed to take a break. Rest is a personal choice, not a gift from or for white people when Black people get to rest. It's a decision for everyone to make for themselves. This is an invitation to my white friends, colleagues, and followers... How can we do a better job of this throughout the year? You can read Bradley's full article here: https://loom.ly/-vFf-co #AmplifyBlackVoices #BlackHistoryMonth

February is Black History Month - a time to uplift Black voices, recognize Black excellence, and celebrate Black futures! Approaching your work with a justice and equity lens is a crucial step to ensure Black employees feel valued and safe at work. Over the course of the month we will be sharing resources, stories, and history on Black joy and resilience in Nova Scotia. Here are some things you can do: 🖤 Support Black-led organizations 🖤 Support Black-owned businesses 🖤 Follow Black content creators 🖤 Read stories from Black authors 🖤 Listen to Black artists 🖤 Intentionally diversify your feed How will you celebrate? Comment below!

This Black History Month there are many ways to celebrate without adding extra labor to Black people. I invite you to…. * Educate yourself about black culture. * Try a product or service from a Black owned business. * Listen to Black music and support Black entertainers. * Appreciate Black art. * Talk to your child(ren) about Black history in America (they mostly do not learn it in schools as the real history is being diluted or totally erased). * Have a genuine conversation with a Black person in your life (i.e. office, school, gym, neighborhood, etc.) * Watch a movie featuring Black characters. * Read a book by a Black author (Amazon and Audible have great sales now, consider “banned” books). * Consider a Black doctor, dentist, veterinarian, therapist. * Seek to understand the Black experience while understanding there is uniqueness within the Black experience. * Research a Black athlete and learn their story. * Go to lunch with a Black professional and learn their story. * Visit a Black church. If you do any of these things, I’d love to hear your experience in comments or private message. ❤️💛💚🖤🤎

As we kick off Black History Month, we're reminded of the invaluable contributions, resilience, and cultural richness of the African American community. This month isn't just about looking back; it's about recognizing the journey, the struggles, and the ongoing pursuit of justice and equity. Although it is a time to celebrate, it is also crucial to acknowledge the disparities that persist in homeownership for Black Americans. Despite progress, Black homeownership rates in America still lag behind other groups, a reflection of historic injustices and discriminatory practices. Let's continue to advocate for fair housing policies, support initiatives that promote economic empowerment, and work towards a future where everyone has equal opportunities to achieve homeownership and financial security. Join us in honoring the past, celebrating the present, and shaping a more inclusive and equitable future for all. Together, we can make history. https://lnkd.in/gNB2aJ4G

As we approach February and Black History Month, it's important to ensure that our organizations are creating meaningful and impactful activities. One way to do this is by doing some up-to-date research on topics like DEI, anti-black racism, and affirmative action. LinkedIn is a great tool for this - there are countless free thoughts shared by black professionals that can provide valuable insight into what is currently on the minds of the black professional community. It's important to remember that the black community is not a monolith, and there are a variety of perspectives and experiences to be considered. While we should always include black people in the planning of any org events and activities, it's also important for professionals to arrive informed on the latest thinking from experienced thought-leaders. This is expected behavior for professionals. This behavior should be normalized for people-related activities as well. There's no need to announce or recite what you read, but it's helpful to consider if your planned activities hold space for these conversations. Are there opportunities to reflect on black history in the light of the ongoing challenges many black people face? Let's make sure we're taking the time to do the research and create meaningful activities that truly honor Black History Month.

Black History Month is a crucial time of the year for Black Americans. It is a time where we can finally see ourselves reflected in everyday life, celebrate, and come together as one. Unfortunately, it is often reduced to merely posting Black icons in HR or writing it on a calendar. It is important to understand that authentic celebration is not just limited to the month of February, but it is a 12-month thing in black homes. During Black History Month, it is a great opportunity to dive deep into black history, how it was created, and how it has impacted society today. It is a time to re-learn or learn new information about the contributions and sacrifices of Black Americans in shaping the country - and the WORLD. It is also a time to pause, thank our ancestors, and acknowledge their sacrifices and strength. Celebrating Black History Month authentically goes beyond performing surface-level gestures. It involves actively finding ways to show up for the Black community and amplify Black voices. It is an opportunity to continue the work of creating a more equitable and just society. Let us take this time to celebrate and honor the rich history and contributions of Black Americans, not just in February but throughout the year. #happyblackhistorymonth #blackhistorymatters #diversityandinclusion #amplifyblackvoices

I celebrate Black History by wearing Black History. Many of my friends are in the creative community as artists, writers, performers and trend setters. They inspire me and make me proud. Wearing archival Carly Cushnie reminds me that my community is unique and dynamic and that our representation matters. Celebrate #blackhistorymonth by supporting Black Businesses ❤️ Shout out a Black Creative Person or Black Brand that you support! 👇🏽 I will go first! Carly Cushnie Harlem Candle Co. Jerome LaMaar Savage X Fenty Fenty Beauty by Rihanna CÉCRED LaQuan Smith Sergio Hudson Ivy Park Aurora James In my studies of psychology and spending as an MD/MBA, studies show that Black consumers are more likely to switch to Black Owned Brands in all sectors. Black consumers want to wear items that give them a sense of pride. They are willing to loyally support a brand that they believe helps their community. Black consumers will spend up to 70 Billion a year by 2030 based on recent studies. It’s worth it to invest in Black Owned Brands. *Statistics taken from McKinsey & Company *

As we recognize and celebrate Black History Month throughout the month of February, we must remember that Black History is American History, and we must study and remember it always. There are many things we can do as a collective to ensure we’re bringing awareness, love, and light to the black community. Make it a personal goal to: • Use your platform to educate about black history, justice, and equality. • Follow up on the commitments and promises you made during the BLM protests. • Share a post from a black business owner in your community. • Support, shop, and recommend black businesses in your area. • Collaborate and work together with black businesses where you can. Let’s work together to be the change we want to see in our world.

During February, you'll see al lot of posts and content featuring Black Americans in 'Black" contexts or a review of Black Americans who've made contributions to life in America, and the world, as we know it. I tend to do the opposite. I am Black every day, I'm living Black history everyday, I celebrate Black accomplishments every day. Simply put by many others, Black History Month is not for me. It's for those who don't know. This article is a great view of how we show up everyday and elevate Black history by our very existence. #bhm #blackhistorymonth #blackhistory365

As we recognize and celebrate Black History Month throughout the month of February, we must remember that Black History is American History, and we must study and remember it always. There are many things we can do as a collective to ensure we’re bringing awareness, love, and light to the black community. Make it a personal goal to: • Use your platform to educate about black history, justice, and equality. • Follow up on the commitments and promises you made during the BLM protests. • Share a post from a black business owner in your community. • Support, shop, and recommend black businesses in your area. • Collaborate and work together with black businesses where you can. Let’s work together to be the change we want to see in our world.