Celebrating Black History Month

Feb 1 2022

Celebrating Black History Month

As we celebrate Black History Month this February, The Arc Westchester recognizes the achievements of the Black community across our nation, state and here in Westchester.  We applaud the people who receive services and our colleagues who contribute to supporting people with developmental disabilities.

From the impact of COVID-19 on the Black community, to supporting a diverse workforce and ensuring our policies and practices consider all viewpoints and experiences, we always strive to increase awareness and inclusion of every person and culture in our work.

We are pleased to mention that our Executive Director/CEO, Tibi Guzman and Board Member, Rosa Rodriguez, are members of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Strategy Visioning Workgroup Committee at the state level. They recognize the importance of DEI in our organization and our world. Resulting from their proactive initiatives, all employees throughout the state were recently asked to complete a survey to help understand who our employees are, and how they feel about diversity, equity and inclusion in our organization today. We believe an inclusive workforce and inclusive workplace culture contributes to our overall mission and values.

In celebration of the final day of Black History Month 2022, participants of our Community Choices program created a special Black History Month Museum!

In the week leading up to the day, each individual group selected a historic person in African American history and created a collage! Athletes, Civil Rights Leaders, Political Activists, Inventors, and many others were celebrated in the lobby of our Hawthorne location!

These beautiful displays both served as an opportunity to learn more about these inspiring individuals, but also chance to engage and work within one another in a collaborative setting!

Be inspired by the stories of the people below.

Crystal Hudson, a woman we support who loves her job, exhibits an admirable work ethic and continues to overcome many obstacles.

Bob Smith, one of the most inspiring individuals that we have supported. He continues to express himself through poetry.

Shannell Davis, of Rochester, created an advocacy group exclusively for people of color with developmental disabilities. Read about her and other advocates.

Art by: JOHN ISRAEL
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