Last week, the PFG family of companies united to celebrate Juneteenth. Across the country, our locations joined a Virtual Watch Party with the President of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, Bob Kendrick. From Performance Foodservice's baseball themed lunches to Core-Mark International's catered meals, we came together to honor this day of freedom, resilience, and the ongoing journey toward equality.
I sincerely appreciated Bob Kendrick and the passion ,joy, and the rich history we were provided about the NLB. I really hope I can make it the museum in KC someday. And kudos to Major League Base for finally recognizing their stats. The power of sports and it's ability to bring communities, fans, cities etc...as one is unparalleled and unmatched.
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
Asiatics Getting Well/ The All Rise Outdoor Project/Men At Work Healing LLC
We need more of this type of work to transform court-involved young adults and formerly incarcerated people's relationship with nature and the outdoors.
1st Outdoor Company is a Black and woman-owned climbing adventure business. They aim to create safe and sustainable climbing experiences, elevating Black athletes, creatives, and entrepreneurs. 1st Outdoors' annual event is the Blk Out Climbing Festival, held every fall in Chattanooga, TN. CHICAGO ADVENTURE THERAPY NFPSending in ColorGRO CommunityVincent Schiraldihttps://lnkd.in/eHCdqdGR
Don't take it from us, take it from the legendary equality advocate Billie Jean King. 🎾
Having a board of directors that is only 12% diverse is preposterous. Especially considering ethnically-diverse boards are 13% more likely to outperform boards that aren't (according to McKinsey). Yes, we enlisted this tennis superstar to serve the facts of why we believe it's important to encourage more diversity in the boardrooms of publicly traded companies.
For more hard-hitting facts served by BJK herself, and info on how we're teaming up to bring more e.l.f.ing diversity to US corporate boards to go: https://lnkd.in/eaY76xDs
Check out my latest opinion article for Regal Mag on why Black college athletes should heed the NAACP's call to boycott states with anti-DEI laws. #africanamerican#naacp#collegesports
Opinion: If states like Florida, Texas don’t want diversity, equity and inclusion in academia, they should not want it in athletics either. What impact will banning DEI at schools have on their ability to recruit Black athletes? #dei#diversityequityinclusion#diversityandinclusionhttps://lnkd.in/gNhBWGf8
Celebrating Oliver Lewis: A Legacy of Resilience and Inclusivity 🏇🏾
This Black History Month, we pay tribute to an extraordinary figure in sports history, Oliver Lewis, and his landmark victory in the first Kentucky Derby in 1875. Riding Aristides to victory, Lewis's achievement is not just a testament to his exceptional talent as a jockey but also an enduring symbol of resilience and inclusivity in the face of adversity by African Americans.
🌟 Emotional Intelligence in Action
Oliver Lewis's triumph represents a profound display of emotional intelligence (EI). Amidst the post-Civil War era's racial tensions, Lewis exhibited remarkable self-awareness, composure, and empathy. His ability to navigate a challenging social landscape, maintaining focus and grace under pressure, serves as an inspiring example of the power of EI in overcoming obstacles and fostering unity.
🤝 A Milestone for Inclusivity
Lewis's win in the Derby, at a time when African American jockeys were both common and facing immense discrimination, highlighted the critical importance of inclusivity in sports and beyond. It reminded us that talent knows no racial boundaries and that achievements are possible through collaboration and mutual respect, transcending societal prejudices.
As we reflect on Oliver Lewis's legacy, let's draw inspiration from his story to advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in all areas of life. Let his victory remind us of the importance of embracing EI to navigate complex social environments and the transformative impact of inclusivity on achieving collective success.
This Black History Month, let's commit to recognizing and celebrating the contributions of African Americans throughout history, and let's continue to work towards a future where diversity and empathy enrich every aspect of our society.
#BlackHistoryMonth#OliverLewis#EmotionalIntelligence#Inclusivity#DiversityAndInclusion#Leadership
Community Harvest Food Bank Board Member, Board of Regents at Hartwell, the Educators University - Amazon Best Selling Author - Social Media Influencer - Over three million followers accross various platforms. ForbesBLK
Myles Jack and his mom, LaSonjia, are the first Black majority owners of an ECHL team, the Allen Americans. This move, approved by the ECHL's Board of Governors, marks a significant milestone in the sports world. They're committed to bringing first-class, family-friendly entertainment to the community.
Honoring Freedom and Championing Diversity
As we commemorate Juneteenth, MNCREW reaffirms our unwavering commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). This significant day marks the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing journey toward justice and equality for all.
At MNCREW, we align with the CREW Network’s dedication to fostering a culture of inclusion and belonging. Our global network thrives on diverse voices, which enrich our business connections and drive innovation. We are inspired by the collaborative spirit that breaks down barriers and accelerates growth for our chapters, members, and partners.
To learn more about #Juneteenth, or if you’re interested in attending local Minnesota events, check out this list of opportunities below. As with other leadership and allyship opportunities, we recommend
that you invite one or more members, work colleagues, or friends to join you!
➡️ Attend one or more of the activities listed on the City of Minneapolis Juneteenth Events and City of Saint Paul’s Juneteenth Events
➡️ Pick up a book on Juneteenth that interests you at one of these #BlackOwned bookstores. Check out: Black Garnet Books, Strive Bookstore, and Planting People Growing Justice Press and Bookstore
➡️ Support local #BlackOwnedBusiness listed on the Minnesota Black-Owned Business. Search: Directory and the Minnesota Black Chamber of Commerce
“We don’t serve negroes here.”
This is what the “A&T Four” were told on February 1, 1960 when they walked into the F.W. Woolworth Co…a whites-only store.
The four college students sat down quietly at the Woolworth lunch counter.
They faced the threat of violence.
They were ridiculed and refused services.
All commonplace during a sit-in
It was common to experience this kind of adversity during a sit-in.
They were told to leave, but they stayed until closing time. This sit-in made a lasting impact and helped to disrupt segregationist policies.
Today, I was given the privilege to lead a discussion on sit-in’s, racial segregation, the importance of civil rights at the “February One Monument” with 40+ student-athletes on the FSU swim team.
Together, they represent 23 different countries.
We talked about the reality of racism.
About why discussing race is so hard.
About allies and pioneers in civil rights.
We made the time to see the world from a different lens.
Black resilience is the light that always shines in opposition.
There’s something special about making history while actively understanding it.
Today, we made history as the first (known) team at FSU to visit the February One Monument.
Go the distance. Tread the path. Make a way.
#TillyTalks#linkedintopvoice#LinkedIn#LinkedInSports#SportsIndustry#Sports#highereducation#development#studentathletedevelopment#inspiration#empowerment#GoNolesFlorida State UniversityFlorida State Sport Management
This year, the Oikos Institute for Social Impact will once again recognize those in the Black Church and Historically Black Educational Institutions (HBEI's) that have innovative approaches to serving their community at our second Fishing Differently™ Impact Awards/Gala and Conference.
Candidates are those who are using their spaces and places to make an impact in their community. Their properties are used to address issues of food insecurity, affordable housing, childcare, and recidivism or to create revenue and jobs. These are the types of projects that will be considered. We are looking for those projects that exemplify what it means to be Fishing Differently™ for social impact.
We praise and celebrate those who share in our passion for this work. WHO WOULD YOU NOMINATE FOR A FISHING DIFFERENTLY™ IMPACT AWARD?
Please share who you think meets these criteria and why in 200 words or less.
All nominations are due no later than January 31, 2024.
Pictured here: Rev. Dr. Abdul Knox (honoree), Rev. Dr. Denise C. Picket (honoree), Dr. Otis Moss III, Rev. Dr. Sidney Williams (co-founder of Oikos) , Rev. Jeremiah Wright (honoree), Rev. Dr. Reginald Blount (co-founder of Oikos), Rev. Demetrius Davis (honoree), Rev. Lisa Williamson (honoree), Richard Townsell (honoree)
https://lnkd.in/eREMPNs9
This year, the Oikos Institute for Social Impact will once again recognize those in the Black Church and Historically Black Educational Institutions (HBEI's) that have innovative approaches to serving their community at our second Fishing Differently™ Impact Awards/Gala and Conference.
Candidates are those who are using their spaces and places to make an impact in their community. Their properties are used to address issues of food insecurity, affordable housing, childcare, and recidivism or to create revenue and jobs. These are the types of projects that will be considered. We are looking for those projects that exemplify what it means to be Fishing Differently™ for social impact.
We praise and celebrate those who share in our passion for this work. WHO WOULD YOU NOMINATE FOR A FISHING DIFFERENTLY™ IMPACT AWARD?
Please share who you think meets these criteria and why in 200 words or less.
All nominations are due no later than January 31, 2024.
Pictured here: Rev. Dr. Abdul Knox (honoree), Rev. Dr. Denise C. Picket (honoree), Dr. Otis Moss III, Rev. Dr. Sidney Williams (co-founder of Oikos) , Rev. Jeremiah Wright (honoree), Rev. Dr. Reginald Blount (co-founder of Oikos), Rev. Demetrius Davis (honoree), Rev. Lisa Williamson (honoree), Richard Townsell (honoree)
https://lnkd.in/eREMPNs9
This year, the Oikos Institute for Social Impact will once again recognize those in the Black Church and Historically Black Educational Institutions (HBEI's) that have innovative approaches to serving their community at our second Fishing Differently™ Impact Awards/Gala and Conference.
Candidates are those who are using their spaces and places to make an impact in their community. Their properties are used to address issues of food insecurity, affordable housing, childcare, and recidivism or to create revenue and jobs. These are the types of projects that will be considered. We are looking for those projects that exemplify what it means to be Fishing Differently™ for social impact.
We praise and celebrate those who share in our passion for this work. WHO WOULD YOU NOMINATE FOR A FISHING DIFFERENTLY™ IMPACT AWARD?
Please share who you think meets these criteria and why in 200 words or less.
All nominations are due no later than January 31, 2024.
Pictured here: Rev. Dr. Abdul Knox (honoree), Rev. Dr. Denise C. Picket (honoree), Dr. Otis Moss III, Rev. Dr. Sidney Williams (co-founder of Oikos) , Rev. Jeremiah Wright (honoree), Rev. Dr. Reginald Blount (co-founder of Oikos), Rev. Demetrius Davis (honoree), Rev. Lisa Williamson (honoree), Richard Townsell (honoree)
https://lnkd.in/eREMPNs9
Buyer @ Performance Foodservice | Accounting and Finance
1wI sincerely appreciated Bob Kendrick and the passion ,joy, and the rich history we were provided about the NLB. I really hope I can make it the museum in KC someday. And kudos to Major League Base for finally recognizing their stats. The power of sports and it's ability to bring communities, fans, cities etc...as one is unparalleled and unmatched.