Honoring Black History Month: Black Resistance
This month, we take the time to remember and celebrate Black leaders who have helped move the Y – and America – forward in our collective journey to advance inclusion and equity for all.
We are all better when we commemorate the renaissance, resistance, and rejoicing that makes the African American experience unique. During Black History Month and for the remaining 306 days of the year, let’s take time to appreciate:
- The RENAISSANCE of advancements in and for the black community. A renaissance that is made stronger with the support of allies. A renaissance that includes a renewed appreciation for the contributions of black people in all aspects of society.
- The RESISTANCE of impediments and systems that affect African American people and communities at disproportionate rates. Barriers that are perpetuated through health disparities, quality of life inequities, and decreased mortality rates.
- The REJOICING that occurs when our shared humanity allows us ALL to see ourselves in one another. A triumph of spirit that is evidenced when the richness of black culture is experienced!
United we stand, divided we fall…..many hands make light work…… a stick in a bundle is unbreakable….there is strength in unity. All of these imply one thing...
We are STRONGER TOGETHER.
Get to know Black leaders at the Gateway Region YMCA!
Ken Strawbridge, District Vice President
Renee Tillman, Executive Director
Lennox Forrester, Executive Director
Phedra Nelson, Senior Program Director
Trista Haynes, Executive Assistant
Deanna London, Receptionist/HR Administrator
Ruby Byndom, Housekeeping Supervisor
Madeliene Brice, HR Generalist
------ Support Your Growth ------
African Americans and the YMCA The Origins of Black History Month
Black America: A Cornerstone in YMCA History Celebrating Black Leaders at the Y
Employee Resource - Slideshow
Download the Black History Month "Who Am I?" slideshow to play in your Lobby.
Employee Resource - Black History Posters
Print and hang these posters around your Y!
Employee Resource - Zoom Background
Download the "We Wear Black" Zoom background!
Black Love Day - February 13
Black Love Day (celebrated on February 13), is the fourth nationally commemorated African-American Holiday observance of atonement, reconciliation, celebration, and 24-hour demonstration of Black Love through five loving acts.
Those acts include:
Love for The Creator Love for Self Love for the Black Family Love for the Black Community Love for the Black Race