Odis Hicks Black History Month Spotlight

Throughout the month of February, SGH is celebrating Black History Month by elevating the voices and work of our colleagues who contribute to Black history, culture, and excellence year-round. Today, we are hearing from Odis Lee Hicks, Line Maintenance Technician Lead in the Memory Solutions BU at Smart Modular Technology’s Newark site. Read on to hear his perspectives on Black History and how we can continue to progress as individuals, organizations and a society.

Why is it important to celebrate black history month??

Black history is not regarded as American history. In school, American history teaching is euro-centric. A life of prosperity and abundance, but it was exclusive for the whites- at least it was. Not all whites see it that way. Blacks were seen as a lesser individual: used for exploitation, abuse and others. In 1954, colored people took a peaceful stand against racism, oppression, injustice, etc. to build and shape a world we live in today. The civil war: was based on civil rights and freedom of speech. Let us all celebrate the courage, determination and loyalty of people to get where we are today. This way we will not let this darkness repeat itself. My ancestors lived during those times.

How does SGH practice diversity and inclusion??

SGH is blind in colors, disabilities and gender references.? Tools are given to all individuals to perform their assigned tasks. The hiring, promoting within and selected vendors are all welcome with a high standard of professionalism. SGH workforce is built by a team of diverse individuals. SGH gives chances to correct the errors, includes all team members input, provides resources to improve and employs women team leaders (women are employed in positions that were once males only). A great place to work (SGH).

What resources would you recommend to someone looking to learn about black history?

My personal response is that I took black history in college. In 1987 at Laney College in Oakland, CA. The class had a globe of races (surprised). This leads to many questions, responses, face expressions and personal feelings of how your heart will respond. Go to the library and search for some black historians. Take the history course in your institution of learning. There is a great museum in Atlanta, GA.

In celebrating Black history and culture, who or what is your biggest inspiration.?

MLK Jr. Pursue your noble goal peacefully. This may be a very hard undertaking. I am going to highlight a recent peaceful demonstration. Colin Kaepernick kneeled during the USA national song to bring awareness to the policing activities that were very difficult to watch and sit idle (do nothing). Changes are needed. Colin really stood up, highlighted the need for changes: and today the likes still rejected his action… How many today: reject mixed races, blacks or whites, when they demonstrate a peaceful response to an action that is undermining the Global body of humanity.

What message do you have for young black men and women looking to grow into positions of leadership in their schools, workplaces and communities??

Develop and maintain a spiritual consciousness. This way you can see the creator loves varieties and wants all to live peacefully in this world. Strengthen your skills of action and look for ways to improve your neighbors/communities/workforce/environment. Look for ways to rehab or assist in making positive progress at any location.?

Why do you think the theme for Black History Month, “Black Resistance '' is relevant for today‘s climate?

?My take is: I will say the theme for Black History month: Black History Summary in the making of 200 years and counting. Resistance is a tough word in my heart. The response needs peaceful action, demonstration and social positive engagement. The message listed one black historian stating that blacks helped build America: that concept needs to be taught. Very productive and true statement. Search the Black Resistance for his name. In the development of the GPS: look up who was on board (I will give you this clue: she is a black female). Blacks, whites and the mixed color: In short, we all have created opportunities, have some gifts in learning, singing, writing, inventing to name a few. We need to see that the human eye needs to be colorblind when it comes to any activities involving other people. Remove the question: what ethnic/race background are you? You are qualified: let’s get to work.

What is a moment in Black history that you wish more people knew about??

South Central High (Little Rock, Arkansas) nine black students want to go to school that they were qualified to go: the school students or you know who you are: Rejected them. They kept trying with much assistance from whites and blacks. The gate was open or the barrier was broken so that blacks could perform, learn and get an education. Colleen Powell (look it up if you are interested) First General of the Army. First black President of the USA. History Black needs to be highlighted (understanding history can be positive for all). We can get a lot done when the group is diverse.