Celebrating Black History Month in the Workplace

Every February in the United States, families, communities and organizations celebrate Black History Month. Employers such as yourself may also want to recognize and celebrate this annual campaign, but knowing how to do so can be a complicated and sensitive subject. At Lyceum Insurance Services, we’re proud to partner with your organization and help you plan educational, insightful and empathetic initiatives in your workplace.

5 Tips for Honoring Black History Month

When formulating your Black History Month plans, your leaders and decision-makers should consider the following:

1. Invite employees to help with planning. Consider adding to your usual team that might plan events and celebrations. Specifically, building a team with multiple perspectives can help ensure your plans are appropriate. Avoid pressuring employees to participate.
2. Cultivate camaraderie. While this annual commemoration celebrates Black history, you should encourage all employees to attend events, as this can help them learn about the topic and establish a sense of camaraderie. This approach toward inclusivity can be invaluable for your overall workplace culture.
3. Make year-round plans. You don’t need to limit these values and initiatives to a single month of the year. As an organization, you may find value in celebrating other groups of people or topics. For example, many organizations also celebrate Women’s History Month in March and Mental Health Awareness Month in May.
4. Partner with your community. Your business is part of a community and your outreach and efforts regarding Black History Month can go beyond its own walls and staff. Consider partnering with local businesses and nonprofits and highlighting their stories to your employees when planning events.
5. Look ahead. Although the word “history” may imply a focus on the past, your Black History Month initiatives can also be about the present and the future. Encourage discussions with members of your organization and brainstorm ways you might be able to carry over this month’s commemorations into future goals.

We’re Here to Help

Regardless of your organization’s commitment to diversity, equality and inclusion, race can be a complex topic, especially in the workplace. At Lyceum Insurance Services, our team is dedicated to helping employers navigate these situations and optimize their workplaces. Contact us today to learn more.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.