Liberating Minds

It seems like everyone and their mother knows that Black History Month is a huge deal this year. It seems to be everywhere as Feb. 1 was the official kick off. Glad that we finally get it, or do we? Racism, systemic inequities, and consistent oppression of minorities run rampant in our nation.

In all seriousness, though, it is great that we are recognizing BHM with such gusto in 2021, but what about the other months of celebration? Did you know there is a Latinx History Month? Or A Women’s Empowerment Month? Or Disability Awareness Month? The importance of BHM is not lost on us here at JET, but we are wondering if we should celebrate other groups as well? It is critical to be inclusive in all ways.

In our recent JET team meeting, we were discussing ideas around Black History Month celebrations. As we value diversity at the core of our work, the WHY behind celebrating this month was obvious and rarely discussed. However, we quickly started talking about the other months that we did not celebrate as an organization. When we think about our JET family, so many groups are represented. Our beautiful color wheel shows our diversity.

We continue to celebrate our diversity, in as many ways as we can, and look forward to sharing those ways in forthcoming interactions and moments together.

Ethnic and Racial Makeup of JET Participants