As we enter Black History Month, UJIMA, Gilbane’s Black/African American Employee Resource Group (ERG), remains committed to nurturing an inclusive culture in the workplace. Rooted in the Kwanzaa principle of collective work and responsibility, our name, UJIMA, signifies our dedication to building and maintaining our community together. It encapsulates the essence of striving to help each other overcome challenges and solve problems collectively.
At Gilbane, we are proud to observe Black History Month and highlight the vital contributions of Black/African Americans, both throughout our history and those leading the charge as we look toward our future. We have dedicated a theme to each week in February, with each intricately intertwined with the next. Together, these themes form a circle of collective work and responsibility, symbolizing our ongoing journey toward unity, understanding, and positive change.
Week 1: Honorary Trailblazers
Often, we associate trailblazers with distant figures, but this exercise aims to help us recognize the exceptional individuals within our immediate circles. A trailblazer is someone who charts a new course or breaks through barriers to achieve success through innovative thinking, determination, and resilience. They inspire change, challenge the status quo, and leave a lasting impact on their field. They serve as role models for those aspiring to forge their own distinctive paths. Throughout the first week of February, we will highlight the amazing trailblazers within our communities.
Take Action: Organize a local event or discussion panel where community members can share stories and recognize the trailblazers within their own neighborhoods or organizations. Encourage individuals to highlight the achievements and contributions of those who have made significant impacts on the community.
Week 2: The Importance of HBCU’s
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have played a significant role in providing education to African Americans, paving the way for advancement, heritage, and excellence. These institutions uphold values of cooperation, scholarship, and perseverance while providing a rich cultural experience for all attendees. The Divine 9 has been a driving force in expanding scholarship and encouraging others to pursue education while upholding the HBCU culture. Howard University’s accreditation and funding have allowed these groups to grow and thrive in the working world, giving a voice to the underrepresented. Despite facing challenges, we can continue to learn from the past and work towards a brighter future. This week, we can take inspiration from the history of education for African Americans and gain a deeper understanding of this important topic.
Take Action: Partner with local HBCUs or organizations supporting HBCU students. You could organize a fundraiser to support scholarships for students attending HBCUs or volunteer to mentor students who are interested in pursuing higher education. Additionally, host informational sessions about the history and significance of HBCUs for the broader community.
Week 3: Financial Wealth
This week will focus on financial literacy, covering concepts such as budgeting, building and improving credit, saving, borrowing and repaying debt, and investing. Becoming more financially literate may make significant financial decisions, such as loans, major purchases, and investments, less daunting.
Take Action: Collaborate with local financial literacy organizations or experts to host workshops or seminars on financial literacy in underserved communities. Provide resources and guidance on budgeting, credit building, saving, and investing. Consider creating a mentorship program where community members can receive personalized financial advice and support.
Week 4: Black Excellence in Different Industries
This week will shine a spotlight on the everyday heroes and unsung champions within our communities. It’s a celebration of resilience, determination, and the extraordinary achievements of ordinary individuals. From educators to healthcare workers and artists to entrepreneurs, this week is dedicated to acknowledging the unsung contributors who embody Black Excellence in their everyday lives. Join us as we honor their stories, their impact, and the collective strength, which defines the essence of Black Excellence in our communities.
Take Action: Showcase local black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs through community events, pop-up markets, or online features. Partner with local media outlets to highlight success stories and achievements of black professionals in various industries. Encourage networking opportunities and collaborations to support the growth and visibility of black excellence within the community.
Week 5: Minority Mental Health Awareness
We hope that this final week of Black History Month stimulates thought and creates valuable conversations surrounding mental health in the black community. During this week, our focus will be to destigmatize mental health issues by increasing awareness and understanding. As part of this effort, our intent is also to exemplify Gilbane’s core value of caring by shedding light on mental health resources such as Health Advocate and EAP programs that the company currently offers.
Take Action: Host educational workshops or support groups focused on minority mental health issues in collaboration with local mental health organizations or professionals. Provide information about available mental health resources and support services within the community. Foster open dialogue and create safe spaces for individuals to share their experiences and seek support without stigma or judgment.
By celebrating these themes, UJIMA can continue fostering a culture of inclusivity and collective responsibility. Each week builds on the previous, creating a holistic approach that celebrates, educates, and advocates for positive change within and beyond the Gilbane community. We hope that our efforts will inspire others to take action and make a positive impact in their communities.
