National Civic League’s Post

On this Juneteenth, please consider or share your alignment to the following: Reflection is meaningful but action is necessary!!! It's time to show that we learn from history and demonstrate understanding that we know it is inappropriate to try and rewrite history. We must ensure that truth prevails and we must respond in kind by leaving a legacy of FORWARD and not BACKWARD movement for younger generations. Is this not OUR moral imperative? #forward; #Juneteenth; #DEI

Juneteenth is an important milestone in the ongoing struggle for racial equity, a value central to our efforts at New Futures. As we pause to commemorate this significant moment in history, we stand in solidarity with communities furthest from justice. Use this guide to Juneteenth events in the DMV to make your own plans to celebrate: https://ow.ly/5uBg50Skpb6

During last week's call as part of the personal and professional development training associated with being a member of Black Sisters in STEM , 3 things that stood out to me from the session were: 1. Just because I do something so well doesn't negate my bad habits. 2. Do not do things that are not okay and make them okay in your life. 3. Spirit of error is dangerous. Based on these teachings from our founder Nyamekye (Yah-MEH-chay) Wilson, I have decided to apply these things in my life by 1. Taking out time to re evaluate myself in all aspects of my life and identify my strengths and weaknesses to know which areas need improvement. 2. Take full accountability for the decisions that I make by being intentional and focused. 3. Stop putting off things till the last minute and do things early before deadlines are set It was a very insightful session and if you want to join a community of like minded women in STEM, Sister Nation is the place to be, join us today: https://lnkd.in/dXruEUbn

The Policy Circle’s new Faith & Civic Life Initiative highlights the vital role of faith in civic leadership and community building. Faith-based organizations significantly impact society, yet are often overlooked in policy discussions. Our new brief and initiative will explore how religious engagement strengthens civic life and addresses local challenges. Read the Brief linked below to learn more about the role of faith in civic activity! 🌟 https://lnkd.in/g3htgp3n

https://lnkd.in/eN734MTM As the year draws to a close, I want to take a moment to pause and reflect on the remarkable strides we have made in 2023. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each member and our invaluable corporate partners. Your unwavering commitment has been the driving force behind the success of Black-owned businesses across the nation, fostering growth, innovation, and a stronger economic landscape. Yet, our work is far from over. As we stand at the precipice of a pivotal year in American history, it is crucial to address the current challenges to the principles of equality and diversity we hold dear. Recent events remind us of the fragility of the rights that combat discrimination, rights that are now under threat. It is our duty, both individually and as a community, to protect and promote the values of equity and inclusion. Looking ahead to 2024, we see that the fight for affirmative action and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is ongoing. The symptoms of discrimination and inequality that have persisted for centuries are still present in our society. We must come together, bridging the private and public sectors, major corporations, and minority-owned businesses, to defend and strengthen these initiatives. Remember, "The only way to have a Great America is to have a great Black America, and the only way to have a great Black America is to have strong Black businesses." The strength of our nation is inherently linked to the strength of our diverse communities and businesses. To fortify our Black businesses, we must collectively work to break down barriers that hinder progress. In 2024, USBC is committed to advocating for affirmative action programs and advancing DEI initiatives. We will engage in collaborative efforts with businesses, public institutions, and grassroots organizations to ensure that our progress is not undone. We express our deepest appreciation for your steadfast trust and support. As the Global Voice of Black Business, our mission remains to economically empower and sustain African-American communities through entrepreneurship and business development. Excitingly, the upcoming year will see the launch of the USBC Media Network, encompassing The National Association of Black Owned Broadcasters (NABOB) which is now a division of USBC, USBC Radio Network, and USBC Digital Media. This empowers us to amplify our stories, advocate for our issues, and optimize the Black media ecosystem. Members can also look forward to an engaging USBC National Conference as we celebrate our 15th year anniversary, along with informative events for networking and learning. Remember to renew memberships, get certified with ByBlack, follow us on social media, and engage with your local Black Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, take advantage of the resources offered by the USBC Community Economic Development Corporation to jump-start your business success.

One of our organizational values is Justice, and on Juneteenth we'd like to recognize the meaning of justice within our organization: “We are well aware that the social, political, and financial biases of humans make the balance of justice easy for some and very difficult for many. The scales of justice, be it legal or social, have a heavy human hand on one side of the scale that many do not have the resources to gain the supportive weight needed to offset the preconceived attitudes toward them. We see the shelter and its staff as the balancing force needed to help people get the fairness they deserve.” As you commemorate, celebrate, or reflect upon the significance of Juneteenth today, we want to recognize our team for their devotion to all our values, and our mission. They are on the frontlines of so many social and spiritual issues at St. John’s Ministries, and it is important to slow down and consider how all this weaves into the greater moral issues of our time.

Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future: On this Juneteenth, we remember and honor the countless individuals who fought for freedom and justice. Their legacy inspires us to continue the work towards a racially just world. What does Juneteenth mean to you? Share your thoughts and actions towards racial justice. Let's inspire each other. #Juneteenth #FreedomDay #RacialJustice #HonoringThePast #ShapingTheFuture

The National Civil Rights Museum Programs are Heartfelt, Amazing, and Impactful. Yesterday, I embarked on my new journey as a Graduate of their Unpacking Racism For Action Impact Program. 6 Dedicated Wednesday Evenings and My Takeaways Were! 1.Learning How To Confront Issues of Racism and Implicit Bias Throughout The World. 2. Unlearning Behaviors Society Has Made Okay 3. Relearning History, While Feeling Uncomfortable and Full Of Anxiety 4.Recognizing It Is Okay To Take A Stance Against The Majority. 5. Understanding Allyship Is Important Throughout Any Movement. 6. Different Perspectives Can Have Contributing Solutions For Change. 7. Making The Pledge To Continue To Advocate Through Action . Proud Graduate of Cohort 7 🎉

As today's political theater attacks the relevance, significance and importance of #DEI, my heart is warmed seeing this post from my alma mater The University of Notre Dame. True colors are beginning to show, as organizations and individuals are walking back their commitment to #DEI, proving their interest was mostly performative. #DEI must be interwoven into the fabric and DNA of an organization, be a foundational pillar in the organization's vission and mission, and not be viewed as a separate program or initiative. Organizational leaders in #DEI must have roles that contribute to vision and mission achievement across the core business functions that create business value, else they will be on the chopping block when the market turns and costs need to be cut. When #DEI is run as a program or an initiative, the end is inevitably in sight.

🌍 The Historical Intersection of Blackness and First Nations People of Turtle Island 🌍 In our latest article, we delve into the rich and complex history of the intersection between Black United States Americans and First Nations people of Turtle Island. This exploration highlights the deep connections, shared struggles, and moments of solidarity that have shaped these communities and continue to inspire contemporary movements for justice and equality. 🔍 What You'll Learn: The early alliances and shared resistance during the Seminole Wars Collaborative efforts in the Underground Railroad Cultural intersections, including the tradition of ring shout and Indigenous circle dances The role of storytelling in preserving history and fostering resilience Modern-day solidarity in movements like Black Lives Matter and Standing Rock The importance of healing and reconciliation in building a more inclusive future By understanding these historical intersections, we can honor the past, celebrate the present, and work towards a future where all individuals are free to thrive. 📢 Key Takeaway: Healing and reconciliation between Black and Indigenous communities are vital for fostering mutual respect and understanding. Together, we can build stronger, more inclusive movements for justice and equity. 🔗 Create equity in education. I do not paywall my newsletter, if you would like to support the work consider becoming a paid subscriber: https://lnkd.in/eHTJ8nEU #Intersectionality #BlackHistory #IndigenousHistory #Solidarity #Healing #Reconciliation #Justice #Equity #CulturalIntersections #CommunityBuilding