As we celebrate Black History Month, it's important to take a moment to reflect on the experiences and struggles that have shaped the lives of African Americans throughout history. For our CEO, who grew up in segregated Texas during the Civil Rights Movement, these experiences were especially significant. In her blog post, she shares her journey and the challenges she faced as a young African American woman navigating a society still grappling with race and equality issues.
As we celebrate Black History Month, I cannot help but reflect on the sacrifices and hard work of those who came before us. Growing up in segregated Texas, I encountered firsthand the “white’s only” signs on water fountains and restrooms and understood at a young age that there were places where I was not welcome – the State Fair except for Negro Achievement day, the ice-skating rink, the first floor of the movie theater -- to name a few. But through the bravery and determination of my parents’ generation, many of those closed doors have been opened.
My father, the first Black surgeon at a local hospital, was a pioneer in his field, breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations. His accomplishment was no small feat, as he was met with resistance at every turn. But his unwavering determination and grit made it possible for other Black doctors to follow in his footsteps.
My mother, on the other hand, was the activist. I vividly remember watching her on the evening news, dressed to the nines and sitting at a lunch-counter protest at the bus station. Her activism and passion for advocacy taught me the importance of fighting for equity, inclusion, fairness, and justice.
![A metal double-sided black railroad sign that reads: [WAITING ROOM / FOR WHITES / ONLY / BY ORDER OF / POLICE DEPT.] in white paint. The writing is on a framed square plaque at the top of the sign. The sign post is round and has metal work at the top wher](/media/images/NMAAHC-2E1AF3B4866D2_5001.width-288.jpg)
As I look back on my childhood, I am reminded of the courage and persistence of those who came before me and I see that same courage and persistence in the nonprofit leaders of color who are continuing this work. It is frustrating that so many of these leaders and organizations struggle to obtain the resources they need to make change happen. Unfortunately, there are still closed doors.
The opening of opportunities and the fight for justice has made it possible for me to sit in the position I am in today as the Chief Executive Officer for a nonprofit organization helping to solve some of the biggest problems in our society. I have a responsibility to see the fight for inclusion and continue the work of those before me. I am proud to work at Lever for Change, along with a team that is committed to finding ways to open doors for others, just as doors were opened for us.
As we continue to celebrate Black History Month, it's important to remember that much work is still to be done. The fight is not over. African Americans, and other minority groups, still face systemic racism and discrimination, and it's up to all of us to work toward a more just and equitable society. We must continue the fight for justice and equality and never forget the sacrifices of those who came before us.
Let us honor the past, celebrate the present, and work towards a better future for all. Let's remember that we stand on the shoulders of giants, and let's continue their legacy by fighting for equity, inclusion, fairness, and justice for all.