As we honor Black History Month this February, it’s important to reflect on its significance. Black History Month stands as a significant reminder of the vital contributions African Americans have made to society while underscoring the ongoing pursuit of equality.
First established in 1926 by Dr. Carter G. Woodson as Negro History Week, it was expanded to Black History Month in 1976 during the United States bicentennial. What began as a week of recognition has evolved into a globally acknowledged celebration of resilience, innovation, and progress.
African Americans and Labor
This year’s theme, “African Americans and Labor,” intends to encourage broad reflections on the intersections between African American’s work and their workplaces and key moments, themes, and events in Black History culture throughout the U.S. The employment history of African Americans is a journey marked by resilience and progress.
Following the Emancipation Proclamation, the Reconstruction Era saw African Americans making strides in employment and education, despite significant systemic barriers. The Great Migration, beginning in the early 20th century, brought African Americans to northern and midwestern industrial centers, where they found opportunities in manufacturing and unions. This migration laid the foundation for African American labor representation, as unions and advocacy groups began addressing workplace inequalities. By the mid-20th century, government jobs and positions in professional sectors became more accessible, thanks to the Civil Rights Movement. In modern times, African Americans have gained prominence in diverse fields, including technology, yet disparities remain that require systemic action.
Talent Shortages in STEM
Today, the United States faces a critical shortage of talent in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), particularly in fields like information technology, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and computer engineering.
According to government statistics, millions of STEM jobs remain unfilled, posing a significant challenge to maintaining global competitiveness. This is an area where Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have risen to the occasion. Many HBCUs have introduced robust programs in computer science and information technology to address this gap. These institutions play a vital role in fostering the next generation of African American talent, equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in high-demand fields.
Inspiring Future Generations
As someone deeply committed to fostering information technology talent in my local community, I personally work to develop STEM opportunities and inspire future generations. I sit on the Board of FAME (Forum for the Advancement of Minorities in Engineering), a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing minority awareness and representation in STEM fields. Recently, FAME broke ground on a groundbreaking STEM Hub Center in Wilmington, Delaware, which will serve as a beacon for learning, innovation, and opportunity in the Greater Wilmington community. This center is poised to become a vital resource for individuals seeking to explore and excel in STEM disciplines, and I am honored to play a part in this transformative initiative. By providing hands-on education and mentorship, we aim to address the talent gap in technology and create a more diverse and skilled workforce for the future.
The benefits of diversity and representation extend far beyond the workplace, fostering innovation, collaboration, and progress that benefit society as a whole. By embracing representation across race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, and socioeconomic backgrounds, we create environments where everyone’s unique perspectives and talents are valued. In the technology sector and beyond, diverse teams are better equipped to solve complex problems, drive meaningful change, and build solutions that reflect the needs of a global community.
Conclusion
As we celebrate Black History Month, let us reaffirm our commitment to fostering inclusivity and equity in all areas of life. By doing so, we not only honor the contributions of those who came before us but also pave the way for a future shaped by the collective strength of all voices.
Author : Travis Robinson
SW Prof Services Director – Consulting Services and Chair of Quest Colors ERG
Quest Software