As we celebrate Black History Month this February, we honor the profound contributions African Americans have made to shaping our nation’s history, culture, and progress. This year’s theme, "African Americans and Labor," highlights the pivotal roles Black individuals have played in building industries, advancing workers' rights, and driving innovation. Their resilience, ingenuity, and enduring impact remind us of the power of collective effort in creating a better future for all.
At the heart of Black History Month are the stories of resilience and contributions that inspire us today. Here, some of our employees share their personal reflections on this year’s theme.
Resilience, Labor, and Supporting Black Businesses
Dichelle Jordan, Creative Design Coordinator, draws profound inspiration from Black history and culture, emphasizing the community's resilience. She shares, “The ability to be resilient no matter the cause, to make something out of nothing, and to raise the standard is something I connect with.” Dichelle connects her personal history to that of her great uncle, Rev. Dr. J. Rayfield Vines, Jr., who played a significant role in the civil rights movement. In 1960, he led sit-in protests at lunch counters in Suffolk, VA, courageously challenging segregation and facing multiple arrests for his actions. Despite the challenges he faced, her uncle later served as president of the Virginia State Conference of the NAACP, leaving a lasting legacy of leadership and activism.
Reflecting on this year’s theme, "African Americans and Labor," Dichelle appreciates the hardworking individuals who have shaped her life, sharing, "Sometimes you have to work hard to get somewhere, but you have to have something unique to stay there."
During Black History Month, she actively supports Black-owned businesses by exploring local options and promoting them on social media, "I make a habit of supporting Black businesses as much as I can during the month." Through her efforts, Dichelle not only honors her heritage but also contributes to the empowerment of her community.
Honoring Strength and Legacy Through Black History
Reflecting on the depth and resilience of Black history, Kheyana McCoy, Learning and Development Specialist, draws inspiration from the enduring strength of Black people and their remarkable contributions to society. “Despite the pain of slavery, segregation, and oppression, Black people have continued to rise—finding ways to push forward, find a voice, and prove our value time and time again,” she explains. To her, being Black means “carrying a history of strength, pride, and determination,” a legacy she strives to honor every day.
The 2024 theme, “African Americans and Labor,” serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices and perseverance of Black people. “From forced labor to navigating freedom, African Americans have always worked not just to survive but to create opportunities for future generations,” she shares. Kheyana reflects on how these contributions have shaped opportunities today: “The progress I see in workplaces (my own position included) is possible because of the efforts to fight discrimination and demand change.”
Kheyana celebrates Black history through continuous learning and sharing untold stories of excellence. During Black History Month, she explores the lives of influential Black individuals, shares their stories with her nieces and nephews, and supports small Black-owned businesses to celebrate their contributions and foster growth.
Celebrating Resilience and Progress
Kevin Wright, Senior Site/Civil Designer, reflects on the resilience and contributions of African Americans throughout history, stating, "Considering the successful contributions made by Black individuals despite the hardships of slavery and the Jim Crow era, there is hope that even more contributions can emerge with increased resources and fewer restrictions." He highlights the need for greater representation in professions and corporate leadership, sharing, "As a kid, I was told I could be whatever I wanted to be, and when I looked at certain positions, no one looked like me. I see more and more African Americans in different positions that they were not in before, but it is still not enough, and they often have to work twice as hard to get there."
Kevin, currently an Associate Pastor at Rosindale Baptist Church and former Youth Minister at the historic Twelfth Baptist Church—which traces its roots to the African Meeting House, the first Black church built in the United States in 1806—emphasizes the importance of celebrating Black culture, history, and lived experiences. From participating in Black History Month contests as a child to raising awareness today, he shares, "I am constantly making people aware of culture, people, history, and sharing lived experiences," he says, emphasizing the ongoing impact of African Americans in shaping society and the work that remains to provide equity and opportunity for all.
A Journey of Honoring Black Excellence
Nicole Bennett, Community Impact & Resilience Strategist, draws deep inspiration from Black history and culture, particularly the resilience and strength of Black people, which she attributes to their ancestral pride and leadership. “Our ancestors endured dehumanization while defiantly holding onto their dignity,” she explains, emphasizing how this spirit continues to thrive despite systemic oppression.
The theme "African Americans and Labor" resonates deeply with Nicole, as she highlights the persistent inequities Black people face in gaining recognition and fair compensation for their contributions. “We created some of the most significant and impactful inventions, wrote iconic songs, and built this nation's wealth, often with little to no acknowledgment,” she shares, advocating for authentic, year-round efforts toward diversity and inclusion. Nicole’s celebration of Black history extends far beyond February—it is a continuous journey of learning and honoring the untold stories of excellence that predate slavery. “I remind my children that our history didn’t begin with slavery—before the ships, we were kings and queens, builders of civilizations, and innovators in art, science, and culture,” she shares. Through her words and actions, Nicole inspires others to embrace Black excellence and celebrate its profound impact on the world every day.
Honoring the Past, Empowering the Future
As we celebrate Black History Month, let’s take the time to learn more about the rich and diverse history of African Americans—the struggles they have endured, the triumphs they have achieved, and the vital contributions they continue to make to our world. By supporting Black-owned businesses and amplifying Black voices, we can contribute to the resilience, progress, and empowerment of the community. Together, we honor the past, celebrate the present, and build a more equitable future for everyone.
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