The Black experience is more than just one month to celebrate the accomplishments of Blacks and members of the diaspora, and is much more than recounting of an ugly past in which Blacks were subjugated in this country and beyond.
To me, Black History Month is reminder that Black history is American history and you can't tell the story of America without telling the stories of Black Americans and members of the diaspora. Black History Month is a time to reflect and learn, that the Black experience and Black condition in America is 365 days a year and as such this is a time to explore and learn.
For Blacks, I think Black History Month is a reminder of those that came before us and the obligation we have to their struggle and their unwavering commitment to make a better life for all Blacks in this country long after they have passed. Black History Month is about remembering that we stand on the shoulders of giants, like: Assata Shakur, Kwame Ture, Daniel H. Williams, Toni Morrison, Kathrine Johnson, Frantz O. Fannan, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Gordon Park, Joe Morris and Bernard Garrett just to name a few. There are so many more and there are so many whose names will never know.
For non-Black folks it's time to learn, and look at the roles non-Blacks have played in Black history (Freedom Rides) and find ways to continue to support the advancement of Black people. Non-Blacks, I challenge you to incorporate Black History Month into your lives 365 days year and learn about the negative treatment of Blacks. Don’t feel sorry, but instead be inspired by the success of Blacks determination and fortitude of Blacks despite the unsurmountable odds placed before them.
For all, realize that the most oppressed people in the history of this world are still here surviving, thriving, collaborating, and working for a better world for all! Black History Month is a reminder of the work we have done but also of how much more work needs to be done before we can all live free and equal.
~Evan Green, Executive Director of Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (JEDI) at The School of Business
WHAT DOES BLACK HISTORY MONTH MEAN TO YOU?
The School of Business recognizes and celebrates Black History Month this year through a series that focuses on a handful of Black students/graduates. These graduates were asked to share their thoughts on the prompt, "What does Black History Month mean to you?"
The Black experience is ever evolving in America, however there still remains a strong belief among Black folx that aligns with W.E.B DuBois. DuBois believed that full citizenship and equal rights for African Americans would be brought about through the efforts of an intellectual elite, known as the Talented Tenth. It is based on this concept that we highlight a few of our Talented Tenth students that against the structural barriers presented by obtaining a degree at a PWI, still managed to navigate a path through the darkness to succeed and embark on the journey of achieving the goals they set for themselves.
Each member of this group had success at PSU despite the barriers they encountered. It is our hope that their stories, perseverance and sacrifices serve as a guide post for other Black Americans and Blacks from diaspora to also succeed while at PSU and beyond. We selected these students as role models for other PSU students, during each of their time here they made commitments to their personal, and professional growth, not only inside the classroom but outside as well as students leaders of clubs and organizations, members of Atmos, and project leads for campus agencies like FIR NW.
We are proud of these students and what they accomplished both at PSU and after.
Safia McLeod-Ali, HR Management '22
"Black History Month symbolizes the many strides made by our diaspora across the globe. Every leap forward, every "first", and each foothold gained is a testament to those who came before us. This month also invites reflection on the paths we forge for those who follow. Let us use this opportunity to recognize each of our unique journeys, and celebrate our collective contributions to a growing and changing society."
Safia McLeod-Ali, a 2022 graduate in Business Leadership and HR Management, has secured a position as a Data Specialist at Nike world headquarters. Throughout her academic journey at The School of Business, Safia undertook various internships with different companies, contributing significantly to her career success. These roles include HR Intern at Vacasa; Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Intern at Meyer Memorial Trust; Community Impact Intern at Portland General; President and Founder of MBSA; and Data Research and Engagement Strategist at Get Schooled.
Zevida Sasser, Finance '22
“Black History Month holds immense significance for me. It provides a meaningful opportunity to honor, celebrate, and reflect upon the numerous accomplishments and contributions made by Black individuals within and beyond their communities throughout history. As a person of color, this month serves as a powerful reminder of our unwavering strength, resilience, and continuous pursuit of equality and justice.
During Black History Month, I take great pride in our vibrant cultural heritage and endeavor to remind others of the paramount significance of representation, recognition, and amplification of the voices and stories of Black individuals. By doing so, we actively contribute to the creation of a more inclusive and equitable society for all.”
Zevida Sasser, a 2022 Finance graduate, landed a job working at Fidelity Investments as a Relationship Manager. Zevida initially entered Fidelity Investments as Financial Representative, where she gained valuable knowledge about Fidelity’s business model and assisted clients with their various service needs. Additionally, Zevida obtained necessary licensing certifications – the SIE, Series 7, and Series 63. During her time at The School of Business, Zevida was involved in the Atmos program.
Sasheen Turner, Advertising Management '20
Photo by Christine Dong.
“For me, Black History Month is a time to flaunt our successes from the previous year and to share my products with folks who are actively spotlighting new businesses to support. It’s also another opportunity for those who haven’t been educated on our history to widen their scope on who they believe Black people are. We’ve been force-fed stereotypes, and I used to feel backed into a corner of who I should be. BHM shows what happens when Black folks break out of the check box.”
Sasheen Turner, a 2020 advertising management graduate, has made significant strides in her career to become an account executive at AKQA and to start her own business, Sasheen’s Vault. In her role at AKQA, Shasheen gains valuable insights from industry leaders, refines her strategic awareness, and observes brand dynamics. Leveraging her expertise as an account executive, she channels her knowledge into fueling her own entrepreneurial venture. During her time at The School of Business, Sasheen was involved in various organizations on campus including FIRNW and the Dean’s Student Circle. Check out her rotating art installation at Kate's Ice Cream, on Mississippi all month long.
Follow Sasheen's business and Kate's Ice Cream on Socials to join the fun for Black History Month!
Sasheen's Vault Instagram
Kate's Ice Cream Instagram
Rodney King, Pre-Clincial Health & Commercial Real Estate Certificate '24
“Black History Month celebrates heritage, honoring pioneers who shaped our world. It underscores the importance of knowing one's roots, inspiring pride. Recognizing innovators in excellence and change, it propels us forward. The month is a call to sustain momentum, forging a path toward prosperity for a brighter shared future.”
Rodeny King is a current pre-clinical health studies major with a commercial real estate certificate expected to graduate in June 2024. Rodney currently serves as the CEO and founder of Jani Corps, a small business offering medical courier services. During his time at Portland State, Rodney has been involved in the Dean’s Student Circle, Atmos, and is an PSU Resource Center for Students with Children Advisory Board member.