Reflections on Black History
Posted on Mar. 5, 2022 / Subscribe 0
by Kim Smith-Woodford, VP Diversity & Inclusion, PRSA Cleveland Chapter
While on one of my google searches, I came across a circle shaped icon with the letters “bhm” in its center. I clicked on the icon and out pops all this colorful (virtual) confetti and small tags with the words “say it loud” and Black History Month 2022 falling on my computer screen. I immediately thought of the popular song by the iconic Godfather of Soul, James Brown, called “Say it Loud, I’m Black and I’m Proud.” It was the anthem of black pride for the generation of Black folk during the Civil Rights Movement in the late 60s and into the 70s.
Although the Godfather of Soul said his message was misunderstood by many of his white fanbase, still, it lifted the consciousness of a culture of people whose existence has long been dismissed and marginalized and marked with discrimination and inequality.
Mr. Brown’s message of pride and unity of Black identity, Black heritage and Black culture is an example of why Dr Carter G. Woodson, who is the Father of Black History Month came up with the idea nearly fifty years prior to Brown’s anthem.
First known as Negro History Week at its inception in 1926, it has evolved to, a full month of embracing, recognizing, and celebrating the contributions and achievements that Black Americans have made and are part of our country’s story. In his 1933 book, “The Mis-education of the Negro,” Woodson wrote that Black achievements were "overlooked, ignored, and even suppressed by writers of history textbooks and the teachers who use them." In 1976, President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month, calling upon the public to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”
As influencers and public relations practitioners, how can we become more intentional in learning more about the numerous achievements of Black Americans that in part include pioneers in civil rights, Medicine, communications, activists, inventors, scholars, leaders in politics, science, industry, and culture. Then, go one step further to show how can we amplify their works in our daily practice?
There are several events taking place throughout the month including our Cleveland Chapter of PRSA which will host an enriching virtual conversation on Thursday, February 24 at 12:00 noon. Guest panelists include award winning podcaster, author and chair of PRSA National Diversity and Inclusion Committee, Shanita Baraka Akintonde, local PR strategist, Kenn Dowell, President of Strategic Resources and “The Master of Listening,” author and motivational speaker and President of “The Top Line,” Sporty King. Be sure to check your inbox for more info to reserve your virtual seat.
Another program worth noting is The Museum of Public Relations which is an on-demand program focusing on belonging in the age of COVID-19 https://www.prmuseum.org/012722-black-pr-history-the-imperative-of-belonging
Our Diversity & Inclusion Committee is looking for new members who want to affect change in the PR industry. If you’re ready to get involved, contact Kim Woodford at [email protected]
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