Black History Month

Dear Friends,

In Mellody Hobson’s Ted Talk, the prominent businesswoman inspires us to be color brave, rather than color blind. Instead of seeing each other for who we are as individuals without regard to race, Hobson says that we need to be brave with open eyes – and have tough conversations about race that can allow us to better understand one another.
I’m writing to you at the start of Black History Month in the spirit of being color brave. Since we last celebrated Black History Month, so much has happened in our country. We experienced a re-energized social justice movement and race became more of a topic of discussion in the workplace. Today, as we celebrate Black History Month, we add new names and achievements of Black Americans who are making history in our lives today.
Among the many, do you know that a young female Black scientist named Kizzimekia Corbett emerged as a leader in the development of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine?
The Association for the Study of African American Life and History has named the theme for 2022 “Black Health and Wellness.” This year’s theme celebrates the contributions of Black scholars and healthcare workers and sheds light on the U.S. health system’s large underserving of this community. Understanding attitudes towards mental health — and how they differ from culture to culture —ensures we can offer support in the best way possible.
It’s the contributions of Corbett and others that came before her that carry a continued heavy significance. Black Americans have had to overcome decades of adversity to achieve equality in this country – a struggle that’s not yet over.
Chartiers Center is committed to reducing the barriers, stigma and harmful ideologies that may prevent Black people from seeking the healthcare they need, and creating safe, welcoming environments.
This month, join us in honoring the contributions of Black Americans to our society. Hoping that each of you make it a goal to learn more about others and focus on not what makes us the same but what makes us different and appreciate those differences.
In good health,
Sue Coyle, CEO