Black History is America’s History

Black history is America’s history as well as labor’s history. This Black History Month, the Equity Justice Black Caucus will be exploring the powerful contributions of Black thought leaders, writers and visionaries. The Employee Resource Group’s series will explore Black psychology, literature, activism and speculative futures beginning tomorrow.       

“Uncovering Black Genius: Resilience, Resistance and Reimagination w/ Lissa Jones” will take place each Thursday this month from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. with a presentation by Jones at 11 a.m. and a discussion afterward. Lissa Jones-Lofgren is a distinguished executive leader, organizational behaviorist and host of the acclaimed podcast Black Market Reads. 

Join the meeting to participate in the online Black History Month series use each Thursday from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Add the event series to your calendar

Why Black Psychology Matters: The Seven Resiliencies of Black Folks 
Thursday, February 6  

Black psychology emphasizes understanding the lived experiences, cultural contexts, and resilience of African Americans, challenging traditional frameworks that often pathologize rather than contextualize. Rooted in African-centered perspectives, Black psychology prioritizes community, spirituality, and interconnectedness in healing from racialized trauma. 

The Power of African American Literature in Shaping Social Justice Movements
Thursday, February 13 

African American literature has historically served as a catalyst for social justice, giving voice to the struggles and triumphs of Black communities. Writers like Baldwin, Morrison, and Angelou transcended the literary world, impacting political and social movements through their powerful storytelling, critical reflections, and unapologetic embrace of Black identity. 

Black Women Writers as Architects of Change 
Thursday, February 20 

Black women writers like Audre Lorde, bell hooks, and Angela Davis have profoundly shaped feminism, social justice, and cultural thought. Their work challenges societal norms, confronts systemic oppression and centers the voices and experiences of Black women. By intertwining scholarship, activism and art, these women created frameworks for understanding and dismantling intersecting systems of oppression. 

Speculative Futures: Afrofuturism in African American Literature 
Thursday, February 27 

Afrofuturism merges science fiction, fantasy, and history to explore alternative futures and reimagine the past through a Black cultural lens. By envisioning empowered futures for Black communities, Afrofuturist writers like Octavia Butler and N.K. Jemisin challenges dominant narratives, center Black agency and inspire resilience and creativity.