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In honor of Black History Month, we're spotlighting African-American members of the Side Community, including Sabrina Brown, founder of Pink Key Real Estate in Fresno, CA. Learn what Black History Month means to her and check out her #BHM recommendations below. What does Black History Month mean to you? I celebrate Black history every day, but Black History Month is a time for everyone to take a moment to celebrate and honor the resilience and creativity of the Black community in the face of adversity. It's a reminder of the ongoing work needed for equality and an opportunity to educate others about the rich and diverse cultural experiences within the Black community. What's your top Black History Month book, movie, or music recommendation? I have two recommendations. The first is the book The Color of Law, by Richard Rothstein, which explains how racially discriminatory housing practices and policies have contributed systemic injustices that have created racial disparities in housing, education, and wealth. It also recognizes the role of government in theses disparities.  The second is a very comprehensive report called The SHIBA Report, which provides real numbers and facts that impact and impede Black families from realizing the dream of homeownership. This report is put out every year by the National Association of Real Estate Brokers. NAREB is committed to changing the statistics through their members and industry relationships. Their goal is to continue to show Black families the issues that affect them and break down barriers.

As Black History Month begins, it’s important to recognise the contributions of Black communities to sectors like social care. Black professionals have played a vital role in shaping care systems. Read our latest blog to learn more: https://bit.ly/3BFicdC #blackhistorymonth #socialcare #southwark

Hey everyone! 👋 February is not just the month of love but also the month to celebrate Black History Month 🎉 Let’s take a moment to appreciate and honor the incredible contributions of African Americans to our society. 🙌 But did you know that February is also a time to highlight and address the special healthcare needs of the black community? 💊 It’s important to recognize that there are disparities in healthcare access and outcomes for people of color. Let’s use this month as an opportunity to educate ourselves and spread awareness about this important issue. 🌎 So, let’s come together and make a difference by supporting and advocating for equal healthcare opportunities for all. 🤝 Let’s make this Black History Month not just a celebration, but also a call to action for a better and more inclusive healthcare system. 💪 Let’s keep the conversation going and share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below. Let’s make a positive impact together! ✨ #BlackHistoryMonth #HealthcareEquality #TogetherWeCanMakeADifference

Will you be attending AACC's Annual Conference in Louisville, Kentucky next month? Join my session, with Karen Stout titled “Realizing Black Learner Excellence at Community Colleges" at 9 a.m. on April 7. Black learners have been underserved and, as a result, have left America's postsecondary system. Community colleges, a critical entry point for first-generation, low-income, and Black students, have experienced the most significant loss. The new Level Up Report and get REAL framework will be discussed to engage participants in a renewed commitment to Black learner success. This call to action is an important step in establishing institutional, system, and policy change to support reforms to improve the outcomes for Black students pursuing postsecondary programs and degrees. American Association of Community Colleges

Shomari Wills’ “Black Fortunes” offers an insightful exploration into the lives of America’s first Black millionaires, through the largely untold stories of resilience, enterprise, and ambition in the face of racial adversity. Wills chronicles the extraordinary journeys of six individuals—including Madam C.J. Walker and Robert Reed Church—who overcame slavery, segregation, and systemic oppression to build wealth and legacy during a time when such achievements seemed impossible for African Americans. The book is not just a historical account but a celebration of entrepreneurial spirit, highlighting the importance of economic empowerment within the Black community. As we observe Black Business Month, “Black Fortunes” serves as a powerful reminder of the foundational role that Black entrepreneurship has played in both resisting racial discrimination and fostering community growth in America. It emphasizes how Black business leaders have historically shaped opportunities and inspired generations, a legacy that remains relevant today as we push for economic equity. During Black History Month, “Black Fortunes” becomes even more pertinent, connecting the dots between past economic triumphs and the ongoing struggle for financial justice. Wills’ work reminds us that these early successes paved the way for today’s Black entrepreneurs, underscoring the critical role that economic independence plays in the broader fight for civil rights and equality. Sho Wills PS: See the link in the comment section below for a more in-depth look at this book #nationalblackbusinessmonth

Let's Journey Together It took me a while to decide what I wanted to share during Black History Month, as with most other observation months - the causes that those months represent are present all year. While it's essential to celebrate the immense contributions and achievements of Black individuals throughout history, this month serves not only as a reminder of the resilience, creativity, and enduring spirit of the Black community but also as a call to recognize and address the ongoing challenges and inequities that persist due to systemic racism and the unbalanced distribution of privilege. While we honor the trailblazers of all ethnic backgrounds who have fought for justice and equality, it's crucial to acknowledge that the journey toward true inclusivity and equity is far from over. The legacy of racial discrimination still affects many aspects of society, from education and employment to healthcare and justice, creating barriers that disproportionately impact Black individuals and other marginalized communities. In embracing Black History Month, let's commit to more than just reflection. Let's engage in active and ongoing efforts to dismantle systemic barriers, educate ourselves and others about the realities of racial injustice, and uplift voices that have historically been silenced or marginalized. This involves recognizing our own positions of privilege and using them to advocate for change, ensuring that our actions contribute to building a more equitable and inclusive world for everyone. As we celebrate the achievements and contributions of the Black community, let's also dedicate ourselves to the work that remains to be done. It's not enough to acknowledge the past; we must actively work towards a future where equity and justice are not just ideals, but realities for all. Each of us has a role to play in creating a more inclusive, equitable, and just society.

Throughout February, we’re platforming Black leaders at our partner community organizations to share about their connection with Black history and their collaboration with UWNYC to reach communities of color. Today’s Black History Month Spotlight features Adame Belay, Atlas Functional Family Therapy - Adult Clinical Supervisor at RiseBoro Community Partnership. Through the Atlas initiative, UWNYC supports organizations like Riseboro as they empower justice-impacted youth through Functional Family Therapy- Adult (FFT-A). FFT-A practitioners like Adame work with a young person’s chosen family to help them develop stronger ties and build a brighter future. As FFT-A strengthens relationships, it allows communities to become more resilient, enhancing public safety. How does Black history and your own lived experience inform your work at your organization? “As a Black man, I can identify with some of my clients' lived experiences in and out of the clinical space and bear witness to hearing their stories. It's important to understand the importance of creating safe spaces for communication and healing. One is not defined by the criminal legal charges imposed upon them. I see each participant as a whole, dynamic, and unique person.  In my role, I seek to make them feel acknowledged, seen, and heard, which has a positive impact on their lives."   In your efforts to create positive change in New York City’s communities of color, how has United Way of New York City supported your work? "RiseBoro’s Atlas FFT-A program provides invaluable learning support and growth opportunities so family members can support participants in making informed decisions. Before their enrollment in FFT-A, some participants may not have had the opportunity to communicate their concerns and issues to anyone. This experience can be challenging to navigate, but we ensure hope and build an alliance, which can be the beginning stages of having restorative conversations that can bridge family ties."

There has to be an updated branch of studies about advocacy that focuses on the experiences of Black children and youth. As someone who appreciates cultures, and recognizes prejudices, stereotypes, and various forms of discrimination, leveraging data-oriented approaches at the intersection(s) of positive social impact is beneficial to improving society. Existing work in the area of youth advocacy affords us the opportunity to research the deficits and assets permeating this field of study. Revisting impacts of the myriad of Black experiences in/on places and spaces (digital and physical and beyond) re-teaches us a lot about our approaches (disciplined and chaotic) to innovation. Imagine that communicating solutions-based approaches considering Black people as a Black person during Black History month requires re-education in 2024; this speaks to the need for breathing fresh air into our advocacy. Looking forward to pursuing collective impact goals advancing youth development. Remember that a little kindness leads to a lot of kindness.

How can arts and culture organizations forge deeper connections with Black communities? A report by The Wallace Foundation investigates this question, analyzing feedback from 50 Black Americans. It reveals key strategies for creating a welcoming environment through celebrating creativity, supporting self-care, establishing trust, and ensuring inclusivity—strategies that can provide a roadmap for meaningful engagement with this essential audience. Learn more in the report: https://lnkd.in/e_cxukfZ

Why It's Important to Celebrate Black History Month - At ArroyoWest, a minority-owned management consulting firm, we are driven by a mission that goes beyond business success. We are committed to fostering equity, supporting underserved communities, and contributing to meaningful change. This February, as we celebrate Black History Month, we are reminded of the importance of reflection, education, and action in the pursuit of racial equity and justice. Black History Month is not just an annual observance; it’s an opportunity to honor the significant contributions, achievements, and resilience of Black individuals throughout history. It's a time to acknowledge the central role of Black Americans in shaping our nation's narrative and to confront the ongoing struggle against racial injustice and inequality. Our dedication to equity in education, advocacy, small business and economic development, workforce development, and our nonprofit community is intertwined with the values celebrated during Black History Month. It's a time to reinforce our commitment to creating opportunities and dismantling barriers for minority groups. As we celebrate this month, let us all reflect on the ways we can contribute to this ongoing journey towards equity and justice. At ArroyoWest, we invite our community to join us in honoring the profound impact of Black history and culture. Together, we can build a future that reflects the richness and diversity of all our histories. #BlackHistoryMonth #DiversityAndInclusion #EquityAndJustice