United Consumers Credit Union’s Post

At the National Civic League, we know civic engagement is vital for addressing issues like racial equity, youth leadership, and more. Discover our work here https://ow.ly/2kyQ50SjYtp

https://lnkd.in/eN734MTM As the year draws to a close, I want to take a moment to pause and reflect on the remarkable strides we have made in 2023. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each member and our invaluable corporate partners. Your unwavering commitment has been the driving force behind the success of Black-owned businesses across the nation, fostering growth, innovation, and a stronger economic landscape. Yet, our work is far from over. As we stand at the precipice of a pivotal year in American history, it is crucial to address the current challenges to the principles of equality and diversity we hold dear. Recent events remind us of the fragility of the rights that combat discrimination, rights that are now under threat. It is our duty, both individually and as a community, to protect and promote the values of equity and inclusion. Looking ahead to 2024, we see that the fight for affirmative action and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is ongoing. The symptoms of discrimination and inequality that have persisted for centuries are still present in our society. We must come together, bridging the private and public sectors, major corporations, and minority-owned businesses, to defend and strengthen these initiatives. Remember, "The only way to have a Great America is to have a great Black America, and the only way to have a great Black America is to have strong Black businesses." The strength of our nation is inherently linked to the strength of our diverse communities and businesses. To fortify our Black businesses, we must collectively work to break down barriers that hinder progress. In 2024, USBC is committed to advocating for affirmative action programs and advancing DEI initiatives. We will engage in collaborative efforts with businesses, public institutions, and grassroots organizations to ensure that our progress is not undone. We express our deepest appreciation for your steadfast trust and support. As the Global Voice of Black Business, our mission remains to economically empower and sustain African-American communities through entrepreneurship and business development. Excitingly, the upcoming year will see the launch of the USBC Media Network, encompassing The National Association of Black Owned Broadcasters (NABOB) which is now a division of USBC, USBC Radio Network, and USBC Digital Media. This empowers us to amplify our stories, advocate for our issues, and optimize the Black media ecosystem. Members can also look forward to an engaging USBC National Conference as we celebrate our 15th year anniversary, along with informative events for networking and learning. Remember to renew memberships, get certified with ByBlack, follow us on social media, and engage with your local Black Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, take advantage of the resources offered by the USBC Community Economic Development Corporation to jump-start your business success.

What does it mean to be an ally in today's environment? It may be more than you think. You don't need to identify as part of the community you stand by, you just need to show your support and help leverage the voices of those in said communities. During this Pride Month, hear what three self-identified Zebra allies say goes into allyship, what efforts can be done, and how to make sure your actions are in line with your words. https://lnkd.in/gK66YTvy

What does it mean to be an ally in today's environment? It may be more than you think. You don't need to identify as part of the community you stand by, you just need to show your support and help leverage the voices of those in said communities. During this Pride Month, hear what three self-identified Zebra allies say goes into allyship, what efforts can be done, and how to make sure your actions are in line with your words. https://lnkd.in/gJ4chbpV

What does it mean to be an ally in today's environment? It may be more than you think. You don't need to identify as part of the community you stand by, you just need to show your support and help leverage the voices of those in said communities. During this Pride Month, hear what three self-identified Zebra allies say goes into allyship, what efforts can be done, and how to make sure your actions are in line with your words. https://lnkd.in/gFtE7WSu

What does it mean to be an ally in today's environment? It may be more than you think. You don't need to identify as part of the community you stand by, you just need to show your support and help leverage the voices of those in said communities. During this Pride Month, hear what three self-identified Zebra allies say goes into allyship, what efforts can be done, and how to make sure your actions are in line with your words. https://lnkd.in/gB9wRkQm

What does it mean to be an ally in today's environment? It may be more than you think. You don't need to identify as part of the community you stand by, you just need to show your support and help leverage the voices of those in said communities. During this Pride Month, hear what three self-identified Zebra allies say goes into allyship, what efforts can be done, and how to make sure your actions are in line with your words. https://lnkd.in/eAyeD5Q6

What does it mean to be an ally in today's environment? It may be more than you think. You don't need to identify as part of the community you stand by, you just need to show your support and help leverage the voices of those in said communities. During this Pride Month, hear what three self-identified Zebra allies say goes into allyship, what efforts can be done, and how to make sure your actions are in line with your words. https://lnkd.in/eNFeDHvN

So many seem to either not know, or forget, about #BlackWallStreet. One of the most impactful teachings of my MBA education was my finance class. “Compounding”, as it relates to interest, wasn’t new to me, but the repetitive application of it forced me to really understand it’s long term impact, and that life itself is an act of compounding; from your relationship with your significant other, to your ascension in your career. When we revisit the Tulsa Massacre, it leaves me to question what would compounding have produced in the last 103yrs if our grandparents and great grandparents had the opportunity for “Black Wallstreets” across the country. My father (71) who became the neighborhood electrician, told me about not being able to get into the electrical trade as a young Black guy from the Southside of Chicago because “those white boys wouldn’t sponsor Blacks”. My mother (76) told me about a particular day of being chased home from Lindbloom HS by a group of white men, utterly terrified. She also told me the only reason my grandfather was able to drive a bus was because he was fair skinned enough to pass for white and that he didn’t “look” Black. The stories of our parents, grandparents, and great grandparents doesn’t mean that Black folks in America NEVER EVER had opportunities, or that white Americans NEVER opened any doors for us. We know that’s not true. But when you think about compounding in life, what did compounding produce for my fellow Americans who freely went to institutions of higher learning, purchased homes, started businesses, invested in businesses, bought land etc? The anti discrimination laws in housing, employment, and education came into existence for a reason. What do you think that reason was? Highlighting America’s dark history isn’t about being a “victim”. I have three degrees and speak two languages, ain’t nothing “victim” about me, (yes I said ain’t). But I’ve witnessed firsthand the luxuries compounding has granted non Black Americans, like receiving hefty down payments on their homes from their parents and grandparents, or debt free college education. My student loan balance would make your jaw hit the floor and knock your teeth out. Young, educated and over qualified, Black men, women, and nonbinary folks across the country don’t want a handout, we just want an opportunity to “compound”. You’d be misguided to think racial biases, and racial hierarchy is not alive and well in 2024. America used us to build a mansion, and then told us to sleep outside.

What does it mean to be an ally in today's environment? It may be more than you think. You don't need to identify as part of the community you stand by, you just need to show your support and help leverage the voices of those in said communities. During this Pride Month, hear what three self-identified Zebra allies say goes into allyship, what efforts can be done, and how to make sure your actions are in line with your words. https://lnkd.in/eFJcbRw2