Every February, Black History Month is celebrated to recognize the achievements and sacrifices by African Americans for their contributions that have shaped society and our nation.
Although the Black population in the Lehigh Valley has only grown to 11% in the region, there is a need to continuously educate others on the importance of the Black trailblazers who have contributed to the improvement of our society. To recognize this month, we asked our employees what Black history means to them.
For employees like our own MATP Program Specialist, Herbrina Terry, being Black is a blessing and beautiful to her.
“I am proud of my Black Heritage. I come from a culture that has experienced struggle, oppression, stereotypes, and lack of support,” Terry said, “However, we manage to rise above all and continue to strive for success. I embrace my melanin skin and optimistic attitude.”
Our Senior Director of Service Delivery & Accessibility, Tiana Williams, is proud of her culture for its creativity, style, and being originators of fashion trends.
“We are creative in art, soulful in our cooking, and inspirational through our music,” said Williams. “I also love how resilient we are as a race. We do not falter at struggles or challenges. We face them, and we do not break. No matter how hard things become, we hold our head up high and continue to push through.”
Our LANtaBus operators, Isadore Rusell, Genevieve Edwards, and Saliek Washington are appreciative of their culture as they take a moment to reflect on their community.
Rusell, who recently went to a jazz show, felt chills in his body listening to the beautiful music that originated from African American communities. While reminiscing on the show, he also was proud to have a culture so rich that it gives him hope for the future when he looks ahead to the youth.
“When we are together, the love is always beautiful,” Russell said. “While I work, I see many young Black people, and sometimes I see myself in them.”
For Edwards, the creativity and innovation of her community makes her proud.
“What I love about my culture is how we dress and how we can produce creative hairstyles,” Edwards said.
For many of our Black employees, this month also means taking a profound look back into the history of their African heritage as they remember the resilience of the past and how that will impact the future.
Washington believes this month is for recognizing the achievements of Black pioneers that have paved a way for others to succeed despite the hardships. He also believes it is a time to take pride in his heritage and inspire future generations to pursue their dreams.
“The diverse experiences and cultural traditions within Black communities should inspire us to understand and continually be aware of the ongoing issues related to race, equality, and inclusion,” Washington said. “We need to continue to work towards a society where all individuals are valued and treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their race or ethnicity.
Curtis Mason, one of our Rider Resources Representatives, also believes this month is a time to empower other Black History makers to tell their own story. “Black History Month to me is not just a month,” Mason said.
For Dontae Hayes, our Mobility Specialist, this month is a time to recognize the progress of how far the Black community has come. While he explains the Black community has experienced obstacles throughout history, the strength that we as a country have witnessed is remarkable.
“Black culture is greatness and excellence at its finest,” Hayes said. “We have impacted and influenced the world so much, it is hard to just sum up Black culture in one month. Black excellence should be celebrated every day!
