As we celebrate Black History Month, we recognize the many significant contributions that African Americans have made to every aspect of American life and culture. There is a great deal of which to celebrate, impacting every segment of our lives, from scientific advancements, the arts, culture, business, athletics, technology, government and so on. Every aspect of American life today is better thanks to the contributions of African Americans.
Yet an honest look at history cannot ignore the ugly and uncomfortable truths about the legacy left by our country’s original sin, slavery, and the systemic racism and inherent biases that continue to limit our capacity to realize our collective potential as a country.
The Y has its own uncomfortable truths to face. Its history, like the history of the United States, is one of decades upon decades of segregation followed by incremental steps and too-frequent missteps. Of late, both at our Y and across the country, there is an accelerating culture of greater diversity and inclusion for all, thanks to the persistence and undeniable excellence of many Y leaders of color. Our opportunity is to build on that, not to admire it and allow a return to the passivity of the past.
For this Black History Month, I am honoring those strong Black leaders (associates and volunteers) throughout our Y who have helped move us forward on our journey toward justice and equality for all, even in the face of daunting societal challenges. The good news is that there are too many to list here, and I can tell you that we are all much better off due to their incredible work both within the community and within our Y.
I hope you will follow along with us on our Facebook and Instagram pages as we honor these leaders and share their important stories over the next few weeks.
There is much work to be done in our Y to support our community as we move toward greater justice and equality for all. Like anything worth doing, it will be hard and uncomfortable, but the rewards will be worth every ounce of effort.
All the best,
John
John K. Hoey
President & CEO
The Y in Central Maryland