Commemorating Black History Month

February is Black History Month.

What can or should you do? Here are some action-oriented ideas:

1) Educate Yourself

• Find events in your local community to learn and support. The National Achives, Smithsonian, and other USG orgs created this comprehensive website.

2) Support Black-Owned Businesses

• E-commerce: Miiriya

• National: US Chamber of Commerce Directory

• Local: TCM is based in Alexandria, VA. Our local tourism bureau, Visit Alexandria, created this helpful reference. We encourage you to seek out some in your own business community.

3) Elevate Black Voices and Leaders

• Former President & CEO of Easterseals and current CEO of United Way, Angela F. Williams, shared this wonderful blog post -"Black History Month Calls us all to be Leaders in Love and Equality".

4) Learn About and Support Progressive DEIA Initiatives In Your Industry

• For example, TCM is proud to support the U.S. Department of State. They are leading the way showing that diversity is America's core strength and should be recognized and celebrated. They recently published this "Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Strategic Plan 2022 – 2026".

• Other leaders such as Amb. Bonnie Jenkins, Undersecretary for Arms Control and International Security, are tranforming the way their teams support implementing organisations and beneficiaries globally. Some notable recent initiatives from DOS/ISN under Amb. Jenkins include:

• Promoting a diverse and inclusive pool of implementing partners

• Diversifying the population of SMEs to deliver and lead engagements

• Broadening participant pool to ensure access to resources and trainings

• Promoting emerging leaders through advanced technical training and professional development opportunities

5) Donate

• America's Charities shares notable national organizations

• Seek out those who are making an impact in your industry. TCM is proud to support Women of Color Advancing Peace, Security & Conflict Transformation (WCAPS) in honor of Black History Month and the important work they do. You can learn more and donate here.

6) Lead With Action

• Are you a business owner or manager? Consider ideas shared by CEO Action or insights from Dana Brownlee via Forbes.

• Other notable websites with ideas for individuals and busineses:

• https://www.salesforce.org/blog/8-ways-to-honor-black-history-month/

• https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/how-to-celebrate-black-history-month

TCM encourages everyone to approach this #BlackHistoryMonth with reflection and action.