Some Background: What is Black History Month?

February is Black History Month in the US and Canada, an annual observance that offers the opportunity to celebrate the often-neglected achievements of Black and African American people. With origins dating back to 1915, it was originally recognized in 1976 in the US. Since 1976, every US president has recognized February as Black History Month, and other countries, including Canada and the UK have also dedicated months to celebrating Black history.

Gratitude and Celebration: Events that Recognize Historical Black Figures

At TD SYNNEX, we believe that diversity and inclusion produce more innovative results and provides a competitive advantage. Our DE&I mission is to build an environment of inclusion for our diverse workforce, globally. One of the ways we do this is through our dedicated Business Resource Groups (BRGs), a collaborate effort to support the recruitment, retention, enablement and advancement of all co-workers, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, orientation, background or beliefs.

Our BRG Beacon is specifically aimed at providing our Black co-workers with a platform and resources to help them achieve their personal and professional goals, serving as a change agent to foster inclusiveness and meaningful interactions. Beacons run several programs, events and efforts throughout the year, while bringing extra awareness and diligence to celebrate Black History Month. This year, Beacon held several events throughout the month to connect and engage with co-workers:

• On the Same Page: “42” — Co-workers were asked to watch the movie 42 and discuss the important impact famed baseball player Jackie Robinson as a historical Black figure.
• Vision Board Workshop — Led by a team of Beacon leaders, the Vision Board Workshop informed co-workers on how to achieve financial, career and personal goals through the mantra of “Dream, Believe, Focus and Achieve.”
• On the same page: “Becoming” — Co-workers were invited to participate in an interactive discussion on Michelle Obama’s bestselling novel, Becoming.

United Front: 14 Facilities Raise the Pan-African Flag

Earlier this month, we continued our tradition of raising the Pan-African (RBG) flag at TD SYNNEX facilities, this time expanding to 14 locations across the US and Canada. The Pan-African flag is a symbol of African nation sovereignty and the liberation of Black people around the world. Watch the video below to see all locations that are flying the flag:

Op-ed: A Time to Learn, Lament and Honor

Earlier this month, Brianna Berry, supervisor of the University Engagement Talent Acquisition Team and co-chair of the Recruitment Committee for Beacon at TD SYNNEX, shared her perspective on Black History Month with the Greenville Journal. From the op-ed:

“This month is not only a time for education and acknowledgment, but one of reflection and inquisition — a time to learn, lament, and honor those who came before us.”

In her article, Brianna talks about her experience with Beacon, how our core values play a role as a competitive differentiator and the importance of recognizing MLK Jr. Day as a company-wide holiday. Brianna was also actively involved in our MLK Week of Service, working with GirlUp GVL, a nonprofit that focuses on enriching young women of color with positive, formative experiences that replace obstacles with opportunities. Partnering with them provides an opportunity for TD SYNNEX co-workers in Greenville to serve our community and learn more about local advocacy efforts.

“We cannot undo the shortcomings of our past, but we can invest in partnerships that will impact our future… During Black History Month, I recall the words of Dr. King that have marked my life. ‘If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward.’ We can all play a part in that. Our differences and our actions make all the difference.”