Spectrum Multicultural Celebrates Black History Month

This February, we will be recognizing Black History Month by sharing the perspectives of some of our Black employees on the importance of this month, how we can celebrate it all year long, and how our Spectrum Multicultural Business Resource Group has impacted their careers. Please join us this February by following along on our social media and our Life at Spectrum blog.

What does Black History Month mean to you?

Black History Month is about resilience.  It is a reminder of the sacrifices of the ancestors who carved out a life and contributed to the tapestry of this nation despite overwhelming obstacles toward their goals of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. It is these achievements that we celebrate and recognize as we continue to “keep our eyes on the prize.”  But more than anything, it is about remembering the unsung heroes. Those who labored in the background, those who inspired the leaders of the movement, and those who we may never know their names, but who’s hopes and dreams were manifested in future generations who they ultimately laid the foundation for. Perseverance, resilience, determination - that’s what Black History Month means to me.

How has being a member of Spectrum Multicultural impacted your career?

Being a member of Spectrum Multicultural has impacted my career because it has provided me with an opportunity to apply the old adage, “each one, teach one”.  Given the diverse talent of individuals I have been fortunate enough to work beside, work for, and in many instances lead, I have leveraged my platform as Committee Chair for the Multicultural Mentorship program to identify and nurture the next generation of leaders in our business.  This has allowed me to lean into my experiences as a senior leader of color to “build a bench” that will help lead this organization in the future.  This has also provided growth for me as a leader by learning from the diverse experiences of our BRG members, mentees, and mentors across the business. I am humbled and grateful for the opportunity to participate in this program.

What does Black History Month mean to you?

Each Black History Month, I celebrate the vibrant history of my culture and honor the many sacrifices made by African Americans throughout U.S. history — sacrifices that have given me the opportunities I enjoy today.

How has being a member of Spectrum Multicultural impacted your career?

As part of Spectrum Multicultural, I'm delighted to work with so many culturally-rich co-workers across the country, to celebrate the achievements of African Americans, and highlight the central role they've played in enriching the fabric of our country.

What does Black History Month mean to you?

Black History Month is the commemoration of the legacy and influence black leaders around the world have laid for future generations to follow.

How has being a member of Spectrum Multicultural impacted your career?

I have been a member of Spectrum Multicultural BRG since its inception and have personally experienced a lot of growth via career development opportunities such as the mentoring program, networking with employees outside my scope of support, and mentoring others through programs like Spectrum Scholars.

What does Black History Month mean to you?

Black History Month is a time for celebrating and acknowledging the accomplishments of African Americans, the value and worth of African Americans, and our contributions to society and the culture of America. The influence of people of African descent is weaved in art, culture, clothing, music, science, and technology around the world.

To me, it is also a time of reflection on the challenges that have been overcome by African Americans, and the many challenges that we continue to face.  I appreciate that there has been an evolution that no longer limits the celebration of our culture, and contributions to a single month.

How has being a member of Spectrum Multicultural impacted your career?

Spectrum Multicultural is a wonderful program. It is especially close to my heart, as I have been a member of the Multicultural Mentoring Committee since 2020.

Initially, I joined as a Mentee and was then selected to join the committee.  During my mentorship program, I was promoted to VP and it was helpful to have guidance from a mentor to help me navigate and answer questions in my new role. 

As a committee member of the Multicultural Mentorship program, it is exciting to hear the testimonies of our participants, both mentees, and mentors. It is especially wonderful to see the career progression of our participants. As an employee, this drives me to continue to engage in programs such as this one, help to make Spectrum a great place to work.  

We aim to foster an inclusive culture and workplace where each and every person is empowered to create a dynamic and lasting career. No matter your background, identity, or beliefs, we welcome you to explore a career with us.