Big Picture Alliance’s Post

The 80th Anniversary of D-Day shares this date with some ominous other dates like the attacks on the Legislation and further back, the Tiananmen Square massacre. What's really interesting is that they all lead to the same goal: inclusion, diversity, equality. In California we are the most diverse state in the US (not to mention being the 5th largest economy in the world). We are now 65% made up of "minorities". 40% of Californians are Latino, 35% are white, 15% are Asian American or Pacific Islander, 5% are Black, 4% are multiracial, and fewer than 1% are Native American or Alaska Natives (from the https://lnkd.in/gArFEV_T). In Texas, as the next most populous state, this trend continues with White majorities down to 42.5%, Hispanics at 39.3%, Black at 11.8%. Just these two states cover 1 in 5 Americans. This shows that as states grow and as our next generation continues to NOT see the lines of origin, our definition of an American is inclusive of all races. We are the dream of all that came before, everyone that gave their lives for freedom and for the ability to pursue their American dream.

At MatriArch, our members are always at the forefront—starting with connection. Whether you’re exploring MatriArch MAGAZINE, reading one of our Blogs, engaging through MatriArch Mondays, or forming partnerships that create real Impact, we are constantly evolving to provide the best engagement for today’s world. We understand the unique challenges our community faces. Like many Black families, I know the silent prayers we say when our loved ones step outside, hoping they return home safe and unharmed. We also recognize the barriers Black women face when seeking healthcare. That’s why MatriArch goes beyond just a platform—we offer alternatives, resources, and connections to ensure Black women can get what they need for themselves and their families. Through initiatives like The School Yard, we’re also tackling disparities in education. We partner with teachers nationwide to provide tutoring for Black children and address the gaps in our education system. Every day, we build this space with the intention of bringing connection, sparking change, sharing knowledge, and fueling growth. Our mission is clear, and we are proud to do our best to serve Black women and their families. 💛 #MatriArch #BlackWomenSupport #TheSchoolYard #Empowerment #CommunityConnection #BlackMaternalHealth #FamilyWellness Learn more: https://lnkd.in/e-rvexqP

As a firm believer in the power of #education to shape young minds and pave the way for future success, I'm continually inspired by the vital role that early childhood education plays in our society. From the moment children enter this world, they are like sponges, soaking up knowledge and experiences that will influence their development for years to come. One cornerstone of early childhood education that often goes overlooked is the invaluable contribution of children's museums. These vibrant spaces serve as interactive hubs where young learners can explore, discover, and ignite their curiosity in a hands-on environment! Whether it's experimenting in exhibits, delving into art activities, or engaging in imaginative play, children's museums like Port Discovery Children's Museum provide a stimulating and nurturing environment that fosters holistic development. Research consistently underscores the significance of early childhood experiences in shaping cognitive, social, and emotional skills that lay the groundwork for future academic and personal achievements. By investing in quality early childhood education programs and supporting initiatives like children's museums, we can empower our youngest learners to thrive and reach their full potential. Let's recognize and celebrate the pivotal role that early childhood education, including the invaluable contributions of children's museums, plays in shaping the trajectory of our future generations. Together, let's ensure that every child has access to enriching educational experiences that set them on a path toward lifelong learning and success. #EarlyChildhoodEducation #ChildrensMuseums #EducationMatters #FutureLeaders #InvestInOurChildren

In today's globalized society, it is more important than ever to educate people about human rights so that they can defend principles of equality, fairness, and dignity in all interactions. It provides the tools for individuals to stand up against prejudice and injustice, raises consciousness about and advocacy for human rights, cultivates an environment where everyone feels welcome, and inspires people to get involved in their communities to effect positive social and political change. In the words of John Lennon, "Imagine all the people living life in peace." Everyone, not only activists, can benefit from this instruction. We can make a real difference by incorporating human rights values into everything we do, from classrooms to offices. A line from Janis Joplin's song keeps playing in my head: "Freedom's just another word for nothing left to lose." Recognizing and respecting everyone's rights can become our reality if we dedicate ourselves to studying, teaching, and raising awareness of human rights. 

Child Trends and the National Black Child Development Institute asked Black parents and caregivers across the United States how they define protective community resources and to share how they benefit from these resources. Child Trends’ new brief describes the study’s findings and highlights several local and state initiatives that are working to create protective communities for Black children and families. #CommunityWellness #ParnershipsforImpact

"We can and should invest in organizations that help give agency to the abused and power to the persecuted... to see that stories of oppression, hate, and violence are transformed into policies and practices and systems of support for young people like Nex, seeking the freedom to be their fully human selves. As in liberty and justice – for ALL." Read more from Member of the Board of Directors, Kris Hayashi, and our CEO and President, Dr. Robert K. Ross:

White Allies Alert Educators of color won’t pay much attention to whites who advocate for anti-racism …not until they see something get better for their children, specifically in academic achievement and the respect their children experience from peers and teachers. Did the white advocates listen to what the people of color wanted? Co-plan how to achieve it? What is a tangible improvement for children of color the white person was instrumental in getting? Some white educators who grow up in a white bubble are stunned and dismayed when they start learning the history of white supremacy over 400 years and see the atrocities and dehumanization of whole groups of people. When they see how racism has permeated our institutions and culture they can become loud advocates for anti-racism. That is a reasonable evolution. But don’t expect any appreciation from people of color because you can list new “equity programs”, hired a DEI officer and hold forums. They are waiting to see results: equal opportunity, higher achievement and treatment with dignity for their children.

Memorial & Press Conference 11:00 AM | May 25, 2024 Upper Darby Municipal Building Its been four years since the murder of George Floyd in May 2020, which marked a pivotal moment of racial reckoning in our nation. This reckoning spurred commitments to racial equity for Black Americans from federal, state, and local elected officials. Similar pledges were made for Latinx Americans, individuals with disabilities, LGBTQQIA+ community, justice-involved individuals, and those facing economic disadvantage, among other identities. Yet, amidst these commitments, our nation has witnessed troubling attacks on justice and equity. In the last year alone, we’ve witnessed the vitriol backlash against diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, the repeal of affirmative action, and advocacy against supporting minority businesses at the federal level . Moreover, local communities have witnessed assaults on basic humanity. Now, more than ever, it is time to recommit ourselves to the principles of justice and equity for all, especially in Delaware County. RSVP: http://bit.ly/3wlIakn

Empowering Black Youth: Embrace Child-Free Choices! We explore the importance of teaching Black youth the value of being child-free by choice. This discussion highlights how self-fulfillment and personal goals can surpass societal pressures. Join us in celebrating the movement towards autonomy and informed choices! #ChildFreeByChoice #Empowerment #BlackYouth #LifeChoices #BreakTheStigma #WomenEmpowerment #PersonalGrowth #SelfFulfillment #HealthyRelationships #FutureGenerations

As current ('24-'25) President of the newest Employee Resource Group (ERG for short): DAWN , I am so proud of how far we've come in developing our team, communication style, and community outreach efforts. Efforts in community advocacy – like CME Group's robust ERG lineup – are crucial as more is discovered about the intricacies of the human mind, body, and experience. The story we tell ourselves about what we are and are not capable of are indomitable totems within individual and collective psyches. Any workspace that wants the best from its people must take conscious ownership over that storytelling. Maximizing individual performance requires embracing diversity – making everyone feel safe and accepted – so they can focus on the pride they take in their work. Trust-building is everything, especially to those, like me, with neurodivergent mind and approach to work and communication. Empathy has proven to be a powerful guiding star and I have been honored to work with so many colleagues who have been so-guided. Working at CME Group has been a positive experience for me as an individual with ADHD. The acceptance I've experienced has helped me retire stories others foisted onto me and instead see my own potential and how much I have to offer my friends and colleagues. I am deeply grateful to everyone I work with at CME Group.