Denver Botanic Gardens’ Post

At the National Civic League, we know civic engagement is vital for addressing issues like racial equity, youth leadership, and more. Discover our work here https://ow.ly/2kyQ50SjYtp

Check out this organization my friend/colleague is supporting-- they are looking to create different outcomes for court-involved youth and formerly incarcerated adults by providing safe, accessible "climbing adventures" in nature. 💯 This is, no doubt, amazing and transformative work. We need more resources (money, minds, and time) invested in these kinds of creative, human-centric solutions. Part of our problem is that we have all been taught that solving social problems is supposed to look a certain way and that the power to create change belongs to certain people. When I was at HLS, we were taught that learning how to use the law was the best way to solve law-related problems (i.e.Mass Incarceration). In the world of "professional social justice" (i.e. nonprofit work), there tends to be a high value given to "proper" problem-solving strategies (i.e. things that require J.D.s, PhD's, and MBAs), and the people who are "qualified" to lead those strategies... As someone with a "fancy" degree, believe me, formal education can be helpful... However, I see many of us over-indexing and over-valuing the things that make us feel smart (ego) while greatly under-valuing and under-utilizing strategies informed by what we experience, observe, and witness in life and the world around us. Things we know in our spirit and body because of what we lived through. To be completely real, my life experiences have contributed far more to my ability to advocate, organize, and problem-solve (for justice and equity) than my formal education has (though the HLS degree is usually the "hook"). What's funny is that my most valuable insights from formal education came from interrogating and resisting what I was being taught... dominant narratives, without historical context, fed to me as divine truth ("Rule of Law"). I learned to pay attention to what questions Professors consistently dismissed/ignored, and I learned to understand what language and ideas were rewarded. It's not what I was taught that benefitted me. It was the process of interrogating what I was being taught and trying to understand WHY. One of the WHYs I arrived at: If we all believe that we need to be a formal power holder (lawyer, judge, doctor, CEO) to create radical change, most of us will also believe that we cannot create radical change in the world. However, the truth is-- each of us is a missing piece of the puzzle. Everyone has the power to contribute to a more just and equitable world... you just gotta find your way, your unique superpower. The Flash doesn't try to be Superman, and Charles Xavier doesn't try to be Wolverine... superheroes move from within. "This is who I am, and so this is how I will help save the world." You have permission. <3 #transformativejustice #communityfirst #sharedhumanity

https://lnkd.in/eN734MTM As the year draws to a close, I want to take a moment to pause and reflect on the remarkable strides we have made in 2023. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each member and our invaluable corporate partners. Your unwavering commitment has been the driving force behind the success of Black-owned businesses across the nation, fostering growth, innovation, and a stronger economic landscape. Yet, our work is far from over. As we stand at the precipice of a pivotal year in American history, it is crucial to address the current challenges to the principles of equality and diversity we hold dear. Recent events remind us of the fragility of the rights that combat discrimination, rights that are now under threat. It is our duty, both individually and as a community, to protect and promote the values of equity and inclusion. Looking ahead to 2024, we see that the fight for affirmative action and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is ongoing. The symptoms of discrimination and inequality that have persisted for centuries are still present in our society. We must come together, bridging the private and public sectors, major corporations, and minority-owned businesses, to defend and strengthen these initiatives. Remember, "The only way to have a Great America is to have a great Black America, and the only way to have a great Black America is to have strong Black businesses." The strength of our nation is inherently linked to the strength of our diverse communities and businesses. To fortify our Black businesses, we must collectively work to break down barriers that hinder progress. In 2024, USBC is committed to advocating for affirmative action programs and advancing DEI initiatives. We will engage in collaborative efforts with businesses, public institutions, and grassroots organizations to ensure that our progress is not undone. We express our deepest appreciation for your steadfast trust and support. As the Global Voice of Black Business, our mission remains to economically empower and sustain African-American communities through entrepreneurship and business development. Excitingly, the upcoming year will see the launch of the USBC Media Network, encompassing The National Association of Black Owned Broadcasters (NABOB) which is now a division of USBC, USBC Radio Network, and USBC Digital Media. This empowers us to amplify our stories, advocate for our issues, and optimize the Black media ecosystem. Members can also look forward to an engaging USBC National Conference as we celebrate our 15th year anniversary, along with informative events for networking and learning. Remember to renew memberships, get certified with ByBlack, follow us on social media, and engage with your local Black Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, take advantage of the resources offered by the USBC Community Economic Development Corporation to jump-start your business success.

The Future

August is Black Business Month. According Pew Research Center, 3% of business in the US were Black-owned in 2020, making up only 1% of revenues. By comparison, 12.4% of the population is comprised of Black adults. Fifty-eight percent of Black adults believe that supporting Black businesses is a very or extremely effective strategy for moving Black people toward equality in the US. For ideas of Black-owned businesses to support in our hometown of Boston, check out Black Owned Bos.’s directory, which includes our neighbors in Nubian Square, like Frugal Bookstore, Soleil Restaurant, Haley House and more: https://lnkd.in/ep7bXQv5 #BlackBusinessMonth #BlackOwnedBusienss #Boston #NubianSquare #impinv

Exploring the Hill District’s rich history and vibrant future "In the early 1900s, many African Americans from the southern United States migrated north, trying to distance themselves from the rampant racism in former Confederate states. The Hill District at the time was primarily a neighborhood for working-class European immigrants in the steel industry. The influx of formerly enslaved people and the exit of many current residents to the frontlines in World War I quickly changed this neighborhood into one of Pennsylvania’s most prominent Black communities. With good job prospects and an active, close-knit community, the Hill District became a destination for Black Americans looking to put down roots. ----------------------------- The 21st century has brought with it a renewed effort to return the Hill District to its rich cultural and economic roots. The neighborhood represents more than just the people who live and work there. For the Black community in Pittsburgh, the Hill District is a living, breathing testament to the power of resilience and activism in the fight for change. In the upcoming years, the revitalized neighborhoods will allow the Black community to unite and feel strength in their shared history. The Hill Community Development Corporation (Hill CDC) is one of the organizations making sure that revitalization efforts are consistent with the community’s vision and needs rather than outside priorities." Read more here:https://ow.ly/e89y50Q2fTa

What does it mean to be an ally in today's environment? It may be more than you think. You don't need to identify as part of the community you stand by, you just need to show your support and help leverage the voices of those in said communities. During this Pride Month, hear what three self-identified Zebra allies say goes into allyship, what efforts can be done, and how to make sure your actions are in line with your words. https://lnkd.in/eXAq_F5f

What does it mean to be an ally in today's environment? It may be more than you think. You don't need to identify as part of the community you stand by, you just need to show your support and help leverage the voices of those in said communities. During this Pride Month, hear what three self-identified Zebra allies say goes into allyship, what efforts can be done, and how to make sure your actions are in line with your words. https://lnkd.in/g2YKyaP4

What does it mean to be an ally in today's environment? It may be more than you think. You don't need to identify as part of the community you stand by, you just need to show your support and help leverage the voices of those in said communities. During this Pride Month, hear what three self-identified Zebra allies say goes into allyship, what efforts can be done, and how to make sure your actions are in line with your words. https://lnkd.in/gK66YTvy

What does it mean to be an ally in today's environment? It may be more than you think. You don't need to identify as part of the community you stand by, you just need to show your support and help leverage the voices of those in said communities. During this Pride Month, hear what three self-identified Zebra allies say goes into allyship, what efforts can be done, and how to make sure your actions are in line with your words. https://lnkd.in/gFtE7WSu