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What a time to be alive! Black History Month (BHM) is upon us …and think of the history that has unfolded in the last year alone! The last year has been one that many wish they could forget, but it is also one that should be remembered, valued and learned from. Many days in 2020 felt hard or impossible as Black people continued to be murdered at the hands of police and were infected at disproportionate rates by COVID-19. Yet, in this last year, the Black community turned to doing what we do best: coming together, whether it be to fight, to stand, to educate, or to heal. What better time to be alive than BHM in a time that will be pivotal for generations to come? …that is, as long as we choose the movement over the moment. 

This requires we enter BHM 2021 not only taking notes but also taking action. This month we are not starting the conversation or entertaining ignorance — we are holding our institutions and peers accountable. 

We must enter BHM 2021 not just taking notes but taking action. This month we are not starting the conversation or entertaining ignorance — we are holding our institutions and peers accountable. Share on X

Over the last few months, the foundation has been laid in many spaces to lift up the Black community and their voices and to better understand the history of racism. The Winters Group has been partnering with organizations across the country to build strategies for racial justice in the workplace and provide learning experiences that take a deep dive into systemic racism. Many of these organizations are entering implementation phases right now because the work is already in progress, rather than just beginning. Now, we must keep it going — this month, and every month. 

Oftentimes, it feels like white America will wait until that one specific occasion—like Black History Month or MLK Day—to tune into this work, for a day or a month. Yet, in 2021, we are in a unique position to collectively challenge and disrupt inequities that impact Black communities — in healthcare, law enforcement and education, among other institutions — and make this BHM a turning point in history.  

We are in a unique position in 2021 to collectively challenge and disrupt inequities that impact Black communities — in healthcare, law enforcement, education, etc — and make this BHM a turning point in history. Share on X

It feels fitting that this year’s Black History Month is centered around The Black Family because I believe family and the collective are critical to our freedom and liberation. This month, we not only recognize Black excellence and history of the past but also exemplify the Black joy we embody in the present with our community and family. 

This year’s #BlackHistoryMonth is centered around The Black Family. We not only recognize Black excellence and history of the past, but also exemplify the #BlackJoy we embody in the present with our community and family. Share on X

Everyone can take action this month (and beyond!) to celebrate Black History and continue the work of dismantling inequities. These actions can serve as a starting point: 

  • Invest in Black business and wealth 
  • Stay educated on the Black wealth and business community on Shoppeblack.us 
  • Replace everyday items with black owned products on WeBuyBlack.com
  • Support and buy books, art and more created by Black writers and artists 
  • Purchase from a Black owned bookstore (find one here) 
  • Volunteer with a local Black Lives Matter chapter 
  • Take a racial justice professional development course or attend a virtual event 
  • Check out The Forum on Workplace Inclusion‘s webinars and events 
  • Tune into a free virtual learning lab recording (here)
  • Take care of yourself and your family — protect your peace, value, health and wellbeing