Celebrating Black History Month in the Corporate Space

February marks a month of pride for being Black in America.

Black History Month (BHM) creates a safe space for a cultural celebration that allows people of color to be authentically and unapologetically themselves. It lets the world know that one’s love of self and one’s culture can truly define how we make a mark in our nation’s history.

So how do we recognize this month in the corporate space?

We understand that bringing our genuine selves to work can be done without suppressing our core values and unique personality traits.

At MetLife Legal Plans, we lean solely on inclusivity by developing programs and content that teach and encourage others to embrace the space. Supporting our DE&I and BPAT (Black Professionals Advancement Team) allows employees to celebrate who they are and what they represent. Together, we all ally to create an inclusive environment.

For 2024’s BHM, we kicked off with a special screening of the Academy Award winning movie, “Summer of Soul?(...Or, When The Revolution Could Not Be Televised),” a documentary about the legendary 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival which celebrated African American music, history, culture, fashion, and promoted Black pride and unity.?

Because this year’s BHM theme is “African Americans and the Arts,” the DEI Council hosted a talent showcase celebrating African Americans in many aspects of the arts. It was an enriching celebration of culture, with live performances of dance, singing, spoken word and art.

We hosted a Coffee & Connect: BHM Trivia game and set up a Black-Owned Business Pop-up Shop.

And lastly, one of our panel representatives, La’Shenna Clark, shared with us the inspiring fable, the Eagle and the?Chicken, and how it mirrors the struggle many black Americans face.?We encourage you to read her story.

These efforts, and what they represent, extend far beyond February. MetLife Legal Plans will continue to work tirelessly to ensure everyone’s genuine self is being recognized, seen, and heard.

Wishing you a meaningful Black History Month!

Written by MetLife Legal Plans team members, Arielle Bowen, J'nay Blackwell, and La'Shenna Clark