Black History Month
We understand that it’s our diversity of experiences, backgrounds and skills that makes our company stronger. The same is true for our country. While we celebrate, acknowledge and elevate Black history through our employees and communities all year, we honor Black History Month to further underscore these efforts.
This month, we took time to remember the unique stories of Black communities in both Utah and North Carolina, where our company presence is strong. Our teams attended local Black history events (both virtually and in-person), highlighted Black-owned businesses to support and heard from a guest speaker who shared their experiences about growing up during a time of desegregation, moving to a predominately white community, and then building a home and seeing the growth and opportunities in Utah. We listened, reflected, and continued to learn collectively with our colleagues.
In doing so, we asked our team members to share in their words what Black History Month means to them. Here’s what some of them had to say:
Erwin C.
“I believe that Black History Month is not only a reflection but also a celebration of Black Culture, A majority of today’s advances in technology, science, and medicine, would not be possible without the presence of Black Excellence!”
Brianna P.
“Looking back at all the previous people really makes me appreciate all they did to get us where we are today.”
Gabrielle D.
“Black History Month has always helped me understand where I come from and where I am going. I probably wouldn’t be where I am today if my people had not paved the way.”
Brittany S.
“Empowerment. There is so much history that people do not know. As Black people we can come together and make things happen.”
Landon L.
“Black History is a month to celebrate past/current Black heroes and voices. Black History is American History and although I wish we didn’t have to highlight it in one specific month of the year, it is important that the stories are highlighted and shared.”
Zach. R.
“Black History Month is an excellent opportunity to hear more about our nation’s history outside the framework of public education’s whiteness.”
Last summer, we pledged to support racial justice organizations in the communities we serve. One way we’re doing that is by matching employee contributions to such organizations. Below is a list of organizations that our team members have supported. Click the images to learn more or to join us in donating.
We also asked our team members to share their recommendations on books, podcasts and films that provide insight, education and reflection. Check out some of their recommendations below and click the pictures for more information.
This is only the beginning as we will continue to amplify Black voices throughout the year.
Thurgood Marshall College Fund
The Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) is the nation’s largest organization exclusively representing the Black College Community. The organization is also a source for top employers seeking top talent for competitive internships and good jobs.
Equal Justice Initiative
Equal Justice Initiative is a nonprofit organization that provides legal representation to people who have been illegally convicted, unfairly sentenced, or abused in state jails and prisons. It challenges poverty and racial injustice, advocates for equal treatment in the criminal justice system, and creates hope for marginalized communities.
NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund
The NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc. is America’s premier legal organization fighting for racial justice. Through litigation, advocacy, and public education, LDF seeks structural changes to expand democracy, eliminate disparities, and achieve racial justice in a society that fulfills the promise of equality for all Americans.
Our associates have been reading books, listening to podcasts, and watching movies about Black history. We asked each of them to share a resource they enjoyed that provided them with a new insight and education. Click the pictures below to check out the resources yourself!
