I am sure you would forgive me if this message to commemorate the beginning of Black History Month were steaming with anxiety.
How could it not be?
The recently super-powered bigots of the world, supported by influential leaders, are dismantling social justice and spewing nonsense to the point of suggesting DEI is causing tragic plane crashes. Business have followed their lead. Businesses that make billions of dollars from Black and other diverse customers often monetizing the works of Black and other diverse innovators, are denying equity to those customers and creators.
Pardon me. Not diverse. Underestimated.
The vocal support of podcasters and opinion leaders with massive online followings, the rants and attacks on social media by venomous characters, and the anger of those who have had it all granted to them based on the colour of their skin can make the potential return to a segregated existence seem almost inevitable.
However, there are so many powerful forces that will ensure that equity and equality do not slide into a deep, dark hole. These forces have me convinced that they will not be swayed and will not be undone by the betrayal of others.
These forces vary in shape and form. Some are high-profile corporations that are unafraid of backlash, even from investors and customers, and are steadfast in their support of DEI. Other companies, NGOs, and communities are outwitting the evil ones by retooling their approaches to continue entrenching societal equity. Many levels of government are following suit. So many lawmakers are standing up for organizations denying lifeblood funding vital to global advancement.
Inside these organizations are brave people of all ethnicities, races, and genders who will not be broken. Their strength is incomparable, and their tenure will outlast those on the racist offensive. These courageous fighters will not be silent in their campaigning for the right for what is right.
Waves of new-generation changemakers are on their way behind these fighters. These highly educated and empowered will soon unleash their influence in a manner that established bad actors arrogantly underestimate. The coming generations of reinforcements keep the front-line workers engaged in the fight.
I will not allow myself to ruin Black History Month by focusing on the troubled waters. Nor am I naive enough to believe that ignoring the choppy wake caused by those who love to label those who want equity as woke is a plausible path. My Black History Month will be a celebration of strength—the strength I see in my Black community, my Collaborator community, and my Black being.
Team BLK needs you this month and forever. Can we count on you?