CWA’s Human Rights Department Celebrates Black History Month

Last week, members and retirees from across the country joined a CWA Black History town hall meeting hosted by the CWA Human Rights Department. The virtual meeting celebrated the history and future of Black activists both inside our union and as allies. CWA Director of Human Rights, Education and Health and Safety Angie Wells kicked off the celebration with a remembrance of civil rights legend and long-time CWA ally Jesse Jackson, who passed away on February 17. Last month also marked the 100th anniversary of the creation of Black History Month in the United States.

Central Region At-Large Diversity Executive Board Member Reggie Small served as host of the town hall. Speakers included IUE-CWA Industrial Division President Carl Kennebrew, Southeast Region At-Large Diversity Executive Board Member Vera Mikell, Northeast Region At-Large Diversity Executive Board Member Gloria Middleton, and CWA Secretary-Treasurer Ameenah Salaam.

Secretary-Treasurer Salaam spoke on the contributions of Black women, stating, “African-American women have always stood at the crossroads of justice and courage. Their legacy reminds us all that leadership is not about permission but about walking in your full purpose. As we all move into the next chapter of this union, let us remember true leadership knows no boundaries of race, gender, or title. Our power resides in our diversity. When every voice is heard, when every voice is valued, when every voice is empowered, we don’t just grow; we flourish.”

CWA Local 1180 Vice President Gerald Brown provided a history of the CWA Minority Caucus. Other topics included the creation of the “Diversity At-Large” positions on the CWA Executive Board and the many accomplishments for all CWA members and retirees that graduates of the Dennis Serrette Minority Leadership Institute have won. Attendees were also treated to a trip through the CWA photo archives.

Congratulations to the CWA Human Rights Department for hosting an impressive and inspiring event!

 
CWA’s Human Rights Department hosted a celebration of Black History within CWA to mark the 100th anniversary of Black History Month. Members and retirees were treated to a photo history of Black CWAers taking action.

---

This post originally appeared on cwa-union.org.