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Celebrating Black History Month

February is Black History Month, and as part of the celebration, we asked OPPD employees to share what the month means to them, along with their inspirations and advice. Read on for a sampling of their responses.

Bert Adams

Lead Utility Coordinator, Consumer Sales and Service

What does Black History Month mean to you?

A time to reflect on Black history, not only in my personal life, but within my community. A hope to bring the idea ‘Black History is American History’ to the forefront of everyone’s mind, even if only for a short period of time.

What advice would you give to your younger self and/or other African American youth?

Never give up; Anything and everything you strive for in life is possible.

What is something that inspires you to overcome challenges when you encounter them?

With work related challenges I strive  to exceed customer expectations; being accountable for projects assigned to me, and assisting with projects outside my scope of responsibility.  In my personal life I hope to inspire my 3 children to see that both achievements and failures are opportunities for growth, and there can be a positive outcome in both of these situations.

Tom Banks

Electrician First Class, Substation & System Protection

What does Black History Month mean to you?

Black History month gives me a greater respect all people of color that came before me and made the sacrifices to fulfill their dreams.

What advice would you give to your younger self and/or other African American youth?

Don’t ever stop trying, even if one door is closed, there are more doors that can or could be opened.

What is something that inspires you to overcome challenges when you encounter them?

Determination to see it through is what inspires me.

Darlene Brown

Senior Recruiter, Talent Acquisition, Human Capital

What does Black History Month mean to you?

Back in 1915, Carter G. Woodson recognized that African Americans’ roles in developing this nation and their achievements needed to be honored and celebrated. It just so happened that in 1926, his efforts resulted in the first celebration, one week in February. February was chosen because Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln’s birthdays are in February.

One week celebration, extended to a month. For me, a month of celebration is limited to the rich history that still needs to be shared and learned. I am still learning more about the achievements of African Americans that were left out of the history books (present-day). For example, the Golden 13, not as well-known as the Tuskegee Airmen, also impacted the integration of the nation’s armed forces. Also, Rosa Parks was not the first person who refused to move to the back of the bus in Montgomery; it was Claudette Colvin. In addition, George Washington’s enslaved cook, Hercules Posey.

Hercules gained popularity as a skilled chef, developing elaborate, three or more course meals for Washington’s dinner parties, including politicians and others. A twist of fate for Hercules, while in Philadelphia, enslaved persons can gain their freedom after living there for more than six months. However, Washington sent Hercules back to Virginia about every six months so he could keep Hercules enslaved. All of this history is just coming to the mainstream of American history. So, Black History should be taught, learned, and acknowledged 24/7/365.

Guilt is such a strong word; let’s change the narrative to understand and welcome Black History with open minds. Remember, learning from our history will help us all not repeat some of the negative impacts on society but also (most importantly) help us celebrate and contribute to its tremendous positive impact.

What advice would you give to your younger self and/or other African American youth?

Surround yourself with positive people who will support and lift you up when needed. Also, dreams are for dreamers. Wake Up! Turn your dreams into reality. Don’t be afraid to take that first step.

If obstacles and challenges happen, walk around that big rock or jump over it. But, most importantly, after you have achieved your goals, remember where you came from and give back to your community to help the next generation thrive.

What is something that inspires you to overcome challenges when you encounter them?

I give it to the Lord and let him work out my next step. My faith will not always give me an answer immediately, but when I stop worrying and pray about it, solutions come my way. The instructions are clear enough for me: Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding.

Jerryce Mattox

Manager of Contract Administration, Supply Chain Management

 What does Black History Month mean to you?

Black History Month means opportunity and gratitude to me. It is a time that I use to honor the contributions and legacy of African Americans who came before me. I am grateful for those pioneers who paved a way for me to be where I am today.

What advice would you give to your younger self and/or other African American youth?

Don’t be afraid to dance and embrace joy, no matter where you are. Dancing is good for the body, heart and soul and joy is necessary to live, especially in a world that’s sometimes ugly.

What is something that inspires you to overcome challenges when you encounter them?

When I am met with a challenge, I do not quit no matter how difficult road may look. I believe in my abilities and allow myself grace to get to the finish line.

Shawn Moore

Contract Specialist, Supply Chain Management

What does Black History Month mean to you?

It is a time to recognize and celebrate the contributions of little-known historical figures who were previously never properly recognized for their achievements and gifts shared with society.

What advice would you give to your younger self and/or other African American youth?

To never allow negativity and disappointments to derail your focus and goals.

What is something that inspires you to overcome challenges when you encounter them?

My support system of family and close friends. They each inspire me in so many ways and their love and support lifts me up and strengthen me when challenges arise.  Also, prayer and my faith provide me the encouragement I need.