Celebrate Black History!
Celebrate Black Businesses!
By Ronda Watson Barber
OhioMBE Publisher
Happy Black History Month! We have so much to celebrate. The contributions of Black people in America is worth celebrating. African Americans have participated in the success of our country since its inception. Our cultural, food, fashion and music among other things have made a world-wide impact. We got it going on!
As we honor the rich legacy and struggles of Black people, let’s not forgot to share the stories and pass our history on to the next generation. Some aren’t learning it in schools. They need to know we can and have succeeded under many barriers and obstacles. They stand on strong shoulders. Black folks do everything. We are more than what is depicted in the main-stream media. We are not just entertainers and athletes. We are doctors, lawyers, scientists, educators, business people, politicians and authors. You name it, we do it. We need to encourage and foster an environment where our Black youth will want to make a difference and play their part in our history.
I urge you to mentor to the next generation. Some of our kids desperately need you and positive influences in their lives. If you have a trade or skill, teach it to a young person. Be the person you needed when you were a kid. Please take the time to give back. I believe that once our kids know and appreciate our history, they will want to positively contribute to our community.
MLK Celebration
If you missed Ohio Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission 2016 Celebration, you can view it http://1.usa.gov/1PzTPJn
Buy Black
Don’t forget to take the challenge and spend at least $20 a week with a Black-owned business, that employs Black people. What a difference you support could make. Economic empowerment is a key to success in the Black community. I often get comments about how much people enjoy reading OhioMBE and how appreciative folks are to see bid opportunities made easily available to them. My comment – “Have you brought a $20 ad to help support the cause.”
Just my thoughts – RWB
