Celebrating Black Excellence: Reflections from Inspiring Black Leaders at DoSomething

Black History Month is a time to reflect on the experiences and honor the numerous achievements and contributions Black individuals have made to society throughout history.

In the spirit of celebrating Black History Month and recognizing the incredible contributions of Black individuals, we'd like to introduce you to some of our amazing Black team members at DoSomething. They embody the essence of this month and carry its spirit throughout the entire year.

Here at DoSomething, Black History Month is not just a time to reflect on the past but also a moment to celebrate excellence, and the ongoing fight for equality. It's a time to honor the legacies of those who came before us and to amplify the voices of Black leaders, past and present.

Read on to discover the perspectives of some of our team members regarding the importance of this month and their personal reflections on Black history and heritage.

What does Black History Month mean to you?

Black History Month means something different to each and every person based on their own knowledge and experiences.

For CEO of DoSomething, DeNora Getachew,

“Black History Month is a time to reflect on and commemorate the deep and rich legacy of contributions by the Black community to our democracy, culture and society.”

For Vice President of People and Culture, Crystal Smith, Black History Month is a reminder of work that still needs to be done regarding achieving equality and justice for all.

“Each February, we celebrate the achievements and history of African Americans as part of Black History Month but then leave it all in February. To me, it’s an opportunity to continue to understand Black stories, uplift Black voices, and spotlight those who have made a difference in our culture and history.”

What is a culturally significant event in Black history that you feel has had an impact on the way you think about the Black experience today?

When we look back and reflect on key moments in Black History, it helps us foster an understanding of the interconnectedness between the past and the present, acknowledging both accomplishments and areas still requiring further attention and progress.

Chief Operations Officer Michael Nicholson recalls how the civil rights movement inspired him and his peers to take action against the unjust treatment Black American have experienced.

“During undergrad, we held a sit-in to protest unfair treatment of students of color. I grew up watching how people were treated when others stood by and did nothing and I think that framework has helped to cultivate my values.”

The story of Ruby Bridges and her desegregation of a white-only school is what led Director of Programs, Ashley McPherson into the career she has chosen today.

“Stories like this led me to choose a career where I could create equitable systems, safe spaces, and access to opportunities for youth to skill build and thrive.”

Who is a notable Black role model who has inspired you?

Role models within the Black community play a crucial role in inspiring future generations by embodying Black excellence and breaking new ground through their achievements.

Former President Barack Obama, the first Black President of the United States, inspires Crystal to work to break barriers in her everyday life.

“This was the first time in history, I was able to see someone who looked like me in this position of power. There is still work to be done, but this is monumental progress.”

What is your favorite book by a Black author and why do you love it?

Exploring literature by Black authors opens doors to learn about unique perspectives, helping us more deeply understand the role of Black people in shaping history and our shared future.

“Caste: The Origins of Our Discontent" by Isabel Wilkerson is DeNora’s must read as it delves into systemic racism in America, exploring and explaining the roots of it in a masterfully written, compelling and accessible way.

Senior Communications Associate Shantel Risher is a poetry lover and so her favorite books are Evie Shockley's "The New Black" and Maya Angelou's poem The Mask. Poetry is a beautiful art that has been tied to Black culture as far back as the mid 1700’s and is a tool that has been used throughout history to express resistance, longing, loss, and hope, even amidst the oppression of slavery.

Shockley's poems are a reminder for Shantel that her Black is beautiful despite for so long, society telling her it wasn't. The Mask always evokes grave emotion for Shantel as she is reminded of the everyday struggle Black individuals go through in society.

“I cry every time I hear her recite it because you can tell that the poem is about what we endure, how we carry on, survive, and still wear "the mask" today. Whether it's through code-switching, meeting standards of appearance like straight hair, or withstanding treatments of abuse.”

What is your one piece of advice for young people regarding celebrating their Black heritage and the Black experience in America?

Honoring Black heritage is extremely important for preserving Black culture and fostering community and a sense of belonging.

Michael’s advice is to embrace Black history and use it to understand those who came before you.

“I would encourage them to celebrate their wins as a means to help them remember what it took to accomplish them and then look at people in their culture around them and in history as a crystal ball, to see what has been done, so they can try to replicate it in some way.”

Shantel wants you to remember how our ancestors gave us the blueprint for how to be the change you want to see in the world.

“The past is painful, the present is precarious, but the future is free. Our history, that is rooted in American history, is filled with pain and tragedy, and while triumphant, we still struggle today. But, the future is so vast and filled with possibilities. The more time you have the more you can grasp the future and so younger generations have that possibility to make change and become the next "first" and also make it so that there aren't anymore "firsts".

At DoSomething, the celebration of Black history is not just a month-long affair; it's woven into the fabric of our work every day to continually uplift diverse perspectives. As Ashley says,

“Black history cannot be contained. It cannot be limited to the shortest month of the year. Yet, it stands as a vital reminder to continue uplifting.”