Maurice Rivers’ Post

Last week ARM (Anti-Racist Movement) - A collective won the social justice award. Over the last 24 months we have been building the collective, by providing a Thinking space for Black female social work and allied professionals. Additionally, we host a book club, a podcast and annual conferences. The work is undertaken on a voluntary basis by the core group Lisa Zaranyika Nimal Jude Shantel B Thomas Sharon Jennings Dr Sylvia Smith and myself. Our objective is to advocate for social justice embodying our values of courage, compassion, community, and connection in the fight against racial oppression. Committed to confronting Black racism and dismantling systemic inequalities, through solidarity. We acknowledge and champion Crenshaw’s ideas of intersectionality (race, gender and class), recognising the diverse experiences of Black individuals and the interconnectedness of numerous struggles for justice. We aim to organise, education, heal, support and empower members of the collective. So, Black peoples’ voice can be heard, can thrive, challenging power structures and holding institutions accountable, such that they move towards long-term and meaningful change.

Ida B. Wells-Barnett as A Fearless Champion for Justice Have you ever heard of Ida B. Wells-Barnett? If not, let me tell you about this remarkable woman who blazed trails for justice and equality in America. Her story is one of courage, determination, and unwavering commitment to truth. Born into slavery in 1862, Wells-Barnett refused to be defined by her circumstances. Instead, she became a fierce journalist, using her pen as a weapon against the horrors of lynching. Can you imagine the bravery it took to speak out against such violence in those times? Wells-Barnett didn’t just write about it – she traveled across the country and even to Britain, spreading awareness and demanding change. But her fight for justice didn’t stop there. Wells-Barnett was also a champion for women’s rights. In 1913, she founded the Alpha Suffrage Club in Chicago, the first Black women’s suffrage group in the country. Think about that for a moment – at a time when both women and Black Americans were denied basic rights, she was fighting for both causes simultaneously. Wells-Barnett’s legacy lives on in Chicago, where her former home stands as a National Historic Landmark. It’s a testament to her incredible work and a reminder of how far we’ve come – and how far we still have to go. Today, organizations like Black Pages International are carrying on Wells-Barnett’s mission of empowering the Black community. They’re working to create economic opportunities and foster prosperity for Black-owned businesses, just as Wells-Barnett fought for economic justice in her time. https://lnkd.in/gKh7mWhJ

NSBWM is not just an organization; it's a beacon of hope and progress, born from the passionate hearts of myself and Ashlei Phillips at Florida State University as merely a registeredstudent organization. In a world where racial disparities in healthcare persist, NSBWM stands as a fortress, striving to dismantle barriers and pave the way for Black women in medicine. Now, with 30 collegiate sections and 1500 members, NSBWM is not just growing; it's flourishing, ready to empower even more aspiring Black women in the noble pursuit of healing. As we look forward to expanding to 50 collegiate sections this fall 2024, let's remember why our mission is so vital. Racism and disparities in healthcare continue to cast shadows over countless lives, but diversity is the torch that illuminates the path to a more equitable future. Every Black woman who joins NSBWM is not just a member; she's a force of change, a testament to the power of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Together, we will break barriers, shatter stereotypes, and build a future where healthcare is truly inclusive and reflective of the beautiful tapestry of humanity.

What can the wealthy do to help overcome the challenges facing Black communities, with the biggest culprit being economic inequality? As we commemorate Independence Day, it is crucial to recognize and address the ongoing challenges stemming from our nation's past. One of the most pressing issues is the enduring effects of slavery on Black individuals, evident in economic disparities, educational barriers, and political injustices. Why the wealthy? It's simple! Because they hold a unique position and have a responsibility to advocate for Black people's economic growth. By using their influence, the wealthy can: -promote equal representation and opportunities of advancement for Black professionals. -demand that White led organizations they donate to prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), establish explicit support systems for Black employees, and implement unbiased hiring practices that recruit, hire and train Black talents. -Invest in Black-owned businesses and organizations that are working towards creating a brighter future for the next generation of Black youth. -help enforce policies that strive to incorporate and uplift the Black community, but often miss the mark. These combined efforts can greatly strengthen the economic empowerment of Black individuals. So who is a wealthy individual that can make a significant impact on the economic growth of the Black community from today until July 4th, 2025?

Happy Juneteenth! Today, we commemorate the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and celebrate freedom, resilience, and the enduring fight for equality. Juneteenth is a time to honor the struggles and achievements of Black Americans throughout history and to reflect on the ongoing journey toward justice and equality for all. As we celebrate this important day, the Metropolitan Baton Rouge Chapter also reaffirms our commitment to uplifting Black people through our initiatives in health, economic empowerment, education, and public policy. In health, we are dedicated to reducing disparities and improving access to quality care. We support programs that address the unique health challenges faced by Black communities and advocate for equitable healthcare policies. In economic empowerment, we are focused on creating opportunities for Black entrepreneurs and businesses to thrive. Our initiatives provide resources, mentorship, and financial support to help build sustainable and successful enterprises. In education, we are committed to closing the achievement gap and ensuring that every Black student has access to high-quality education. We support scholarships, mentorship programs, and educational reforms that promote equity and inclusion. In public policy, we advocate for laws and policies that advance racial justice and equality. We work with community leaders and policymakers to address systemic issues and create lasting change. Let's take this opportunity to educate ourselves about the significance of this day, amplify Black voices, support Black-owned businesses, and stand in solidarity against systemic racism. Together, we can continue to push for meaningful change and ensure that the spirit of Juneteenth lives on every day. Celebrate, educate, and advocate. Happy Juneteenth! #Juneteenth #FreedomDay #CelebrateFreedom

As Black History Month begins, it’s important to recognise the contributions of Black communities to sectors like social care. Black professionals have played a vital role in shaping care systems. Read our latest blog to learn more: https://bit.ly/3BFicdC #blackhistorymonth #socialcare #southwark

This is a powerful piece by Dr. Shauna D. A. Knox —100% truth. Every word is worth reading and pondering. Too often, in a vain attempt to fit in or for expediency, we water down our thoughts and words, and our 'deal with the devil' begins. How complicit are we when we allow stereotypes of leadership to cloud our vision? As Latinos and Latinas, when we navigate professional spaces, including academia and the nonprofit/philanthropic sector, what 'deal with the devil' trade-off are we making about our own identity? What does it mean to be an ally for others? Will having Latinos and Latinas on Boards and as Trustees help when their best skill is navigating their survival and advancement in the existing structures, and they have never learned to change the practices and structures that marginalize Latinos and others? Can our daughters (and sons) ever have a fair chance to truly show up as they are if Black women aren't allowed the same consideration?

🌟 Happy Juneteenth from IAB7 Scribing & RCM! 🌟 Today, we honor Juneteenth, a monumental day in American history that marks the end of slavery in the United States. On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, with the news that the Civil War had ended and enslaved people were free, over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth is a celebration of freedom, resilience, and the incredible contributions of Black Americans to our society. At IAB7 Scribing & RCM, we believe in fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion every day. Here are a few ways to honor Juneteenth: 1. Educate Yourself: Dive into the history of Juneteenth and learn more about Black history and culture. 2. Support Black-Owned Businesses: By supporting Black entrepreneurs and creators, we can contribute to economic empowerment and community growth. 3. Engage in Conversations: Discuss the significance of Juneteenth with colleagues, friends, and family. Sharing stories and resources helps spread awareness. 4. Advocate for Change: Get involved in policies and initiatives that promote racial equity and justice in your community and beyond. Let's use this day to reflect, educate, and celebrate the rich cultural heritage and achievements of Black Americans. Together, we can build a more inclusive and equitable future. Wishing everyone a joyful and reflective Juneteenth! 🎉✊🏾❤️🖤💚 #Juneteenth #FreedomDay #BlackHistory #Equality #Diversity #Inclusion #CelebrateFreedom #BlackExcellence #Empowerment #Justice #Community #Unity #Heritage #CulturalDiversity #Education #SupportBlackBusinesses #Resilience #Equity #TogetherWeRise #Advocacy #BlackCulture

Juneteenth is a time to celebrate Black culture and achievements but also to recognize the ongoing struggles for racial justice. It is a day to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, honor ancestors who fought for freedom, and renew our commitment to dismantling the systems of oppression that still exist today. This day is not just a historical milestone: It is a powerful reminder of the resilience and courage of Black Americans, and our relentless pursuit of justice. As an organization whose mission is to improve the nutrition, health, and well-being of people struggling against poverty-related hunger in the United States through advocacy, partnerships, and by advancing bold and equitable policy solutions, our work has a commitment to Racial, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion or as we call it REDI. The values embedded in Juneteeth are aligned with our commitment to REDI all year long. Learn more in a blog by FRAC's Rashan Datcher. https://lnkd.in/eCNpMx4H

In case you missed it: A #Juneteenth message from our CEO Lenwood V Long Sr. "Earlier this year, I called for a collective recommitment to our fight for racial and economic justice. In this current environment, where there is an assault on DEI programs that threaten the progress made, our commitment to fight even harder to preserve and advance economic justice and racial equity must happen now. As members, friends and allies of The Alliance, we must stand united in our resolve to confront and dismantle the barriers that hinder progress for Black communities. Each of us must advocate for equity, justice, and inclusivity in all facets of our work and beyond. We must continue to amplify marginalized voices, challenge systemic inequalities, and champion policies that promote fairness and opportunity for all. The late Malcolm X once said, “Armed with the knowledge of our past, we can with confidence charter a course for our future.” This Juneteenth, let us honor the legacy of resilience and resistance that defines the Black experience. Let us rededicate ourselves to the pursuit of justice and equality for all. Together, we can build a future where the progress made by Black individuals and communities is not only preserved but propelled forward. Let us continue to stand strong, united in our pursuit of a more just and equitable world." Read more here: https://lnkd.in/ebAGJ97G