Macy's’ Post

I'm proud that KPMG celebrates #Juneteenth, commemorating the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation and the legal end to slavery. It is a day of celebration, but also sobering reminder of the millions who suffered under slavery and the devastating and dangerous impacts of dehumanization. Tragically, we've not solved for inequality and the practice of slavery is still real and growing, with over 50 million victims of modern slavery worldwide. On this Juneteenth, please join me in: 1. Learning from the freedom fighters of the past, 2. Extending the Golden Rule to all, not just those like you, and   3. Taking practical actions to combat modern slavery. https://lnkd.in/e-P6qW9F #Integrity, #Excellence, #Courage, #Together, #ForBetter, #Freedom

As you reflect on the importance of Juneteenth and its impact on the American history, take this time to honor the past, appreciate the present, and aspire to have a better future. This is a day to remember, celebrate, and continue the fight for freedom and equality. Let’s honor the freedom and resilience of the Black community, pay tribute to those who championed equality, recognize the advancements achieved, and pledge to continue striving for a fair and inclusive society. If you are interested in learning more about the history of Juneteenth and events that are happening in Boston, check out this link: https://lnkd.in/ez_g9cU4.  

As we celebrate Juneteenth, we must also acknowledge the invisible chains that still bind our country due to systemic racism. The legacy of slavery continues to impact the lives of Black Americans today, from disproportionately high rates of incarceration to limited access to quality education and opportunities. We must all commit to being actively anti-racist and dismantling the systems that uphold white supremacy. This means advocating for policies that promote equity and justice, supporting Black-owned businesses, and amplifying the voices of marginalized communities. As a professional in the corporate world, I recognize the importance of creating inclusive workplaces where all employees feel seen, heard, and valued. We must actively work to dismantle the barriers that prevent Black professionals from advancing in their careers and ensure that everyone has access to the same opportunities for success. Let us use this day of celebration as a reminder of the work that still needs to be done to create a truly equal and just society. We must continue to educate others, have difficult conversations, and take action.

During Black History Month, Alice Walker's quote takes on added significance as it reflects the historical and ongoing struggle for empowerment within the Black community. Throughout history, Black individuals and communities have faced systemic oppression, discrimination, and disenfranchisement. Despite these challenges, countless individuals have demonstrated remarkable resilience and strength in asserting their rights and fighting for equality. Alice Walker's quote reminds us of the importance of reframing narratives to center empowerment and agency. By acknowledging and celebrating the power within the Black community, we can inspire hope, resilience, and collective action towards a more just and equitable society. #BlackHistoryMonth is not only a time for reflection and celebration but also a call to action. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial justice and the need to address systemic inequities that persist today. By amplifying voices, advocating for change, and supporting efforts towards equality, we can honor the legacy of past struggles and work towards a more inclusive future. #BlackHistory

the ideology of the term self-care dates back to the 1950s with the rise of “person or patient-centered medicine” and was used primarily in the medical community. the main focus was to encourage mentally ill or elderly patients to keep their independence through caring for their basic needs such as showering, exercise, and a basic grooming routine. with the rise of the black panther party, and civil rights movements in the 60’s and 70’s. the definition of self-care became a political act that didn’t just focus on a medical regime but a person's body and mind. self-care was also viewed as a way to fight systemic racism experienced by black patients in the healthcare system. the black panthers even dedicated an entire piece of literature to the history of self-care and how communities deserved programming that focused on and encouraged emotional and mental health. these survival programs were essential for black people, especially black women. self-care was community-based and the mental support of activists to avoid burnout. the history of self-care began as apart of black history with activists such as angela davis practicing yoga and meditation while incarcerated and bringing these concepts and more back to the community. soon the practice of self-care spread to other groups looking for alternate ways of living altering our society and ushering in new methods of using self-care as a tool of measurement.

In celebrating the rich legacy of Black excellence in America, we’re called upon to defend against the surging efforts to dismantle equity programs. We must sustain the progress that has moved us toward a more equitable society, not let it whither. But sustaining progress demands more than having a DEI department – organizations must actively listen to marginalized voices and create systems that make equity intrinsic to the business. I invite you to read the opinion piece I wrote on how a grassroots approach is key to moving to a more equitable future. https://hubs.la/Q02kry9v0

As we honour Black History Month, we encourage our community to take the time to better understand the unique barriers to eating disorder treatment faced by Black individuals. Many external and societal factors can impact an individual's health, including the development and perpetuation of eating disorders and disordered eating behaviours. To have true inclusivity and equity in eating disorder awareness, research and recovery methods, we must acknowledge and understand the systemic racial bias in our social and healthcare systems that impacts Black individuals, creating barriers to accessing equitable treatment. It is our responsibility as practitioners, organizations and advocates alike to ensure we are all doing our due diligence to provide accessible, culturally sensitive, trauma-informed care to Black individuals who need our support. To learn more, check out the resources created by our friends at @the_nedic for Black individuals affected by eating disorders: https://lnkd.in/gVd7vg7i and guidance for providers and organizations on how to ensure they are offering culturally sensitive eating disorder care: https://lnkd.in/gVscg3Ey

Celebrating Juneteenth is to celebrate the continued perseverance of Black Americans in the face of barriers to freedom, reminding us of the long and difficult journeys faced towards emancipation and the continued ongoing struggle for civil rights and equality.     As Otsuka-people, we will take today to pause and honor the Black community's achievements, respect their lived experiences, and spread awareness of the many challenges they still face today.    It is our privilege to walk alongside our communities as allies and advocates to overcome barriers and reduce inequities.    Our promise is to invest in products, programs, policies, and advocacy efforts that help remove stigma and discrimination, increase access to care, and address social determinants of health.     Discover our commitment to health for every mind: https://bit.ly/3LxiGW9   #Juneteenth

Reflecting on the rich tapestry of Black history, I invite you to join me in celebrating the resilience, creativity, and unbeatable spirit of the Black community. This month, let us not only honor the struggles and triumphs but also recognize the ongoing journey toward justice and equality. In the pages of history, Black voices have woven narratives of strength and endurance. Let us amplify these stories, acknowledging the contributions that have shaped our world today. Black History Month is a reminder of the power within our collective history, urging us to continue striving for a future where justice, understanding, and unity prevail. May this month serve as a motivation for conversations, actions, and a renewed commitment to dismantling barriers. Let us stand together and commit to forging a path towards a more equitable and inclusive society. #blackhistorymonth

On the heels of the launch of our Black Liberation and Just Transition Certification Program and relaunch of our community tools such as the Resource Hub, Policies for the People, and BIPOC in ECJ, The Chisholm Legacy Project will be closed September 2-6, 2024 to give our staff a moment to rest, recharge, and reflect. This rest will allow us time to replenish our physical and mental health ensuring we have the endurance and clarity needed to effectively advocate for systemic change.     When we rest, it is a form of resistance and healing in a society that often exploits the labor of Black people. Our intentional rest defies the historical and ongoing pressures to be perpetually productive. It acknowledges our humanity, affirming our right to well-being and joy. By prioritizing rest, we are modeling sustainable activism and demonstrating that self-care and community care are integral to long-term movements.