Honoring Black History Month: A Commitment to Equity and Inclusion
February 7, 2025
Public Statement from Chris Allen, President & CEO
February 7, 2025
As we celebrate Black History Month, we recognize the resilience, contributions, and leadership of Black communities throughout history. From the fight against Jim Crow to the civil rights movement and beyond, Black activists, leaders, and everyday people have paved the way for policies and programs that advance equity and opportunity. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives are part of that legacy, breaking down systemic barriers and ensuring access to education, employment, healthcare, and safety for communities that have been historically pushed to the margins.
Despite political rhetoric that seeks to dismantle DEI efforts under the false pretense of illegality, history proves that these initiatives have been instrumental in creating opportunities for communities of color, particularly those living at the intersections of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and gender identity. The reality is clear: discrimination and inequities persist, and DEI is not a threat. It is a necessity.
At Diverse & Resilient, we know that Black LGBTQ+ people continue to experience disparities in health, safety, and economic opportunity due to systems that have historically placed them in the margins. Our commitment to equity means we will continue advocating for policies and programs that address these disparities, ensuring that all people, especially those most impacted by systemic injustice, have the opportunity to thrive.
Our vision is bold: At Diverse & Resilient, we see a future in which lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people in Wisconsin thrive, living healthy, satisfying lives in safe, supportive communities.
We look toward a future where DEI initiatives are no longer needed, not because those in power fear the idea of equality but because true equity is fully embraced and systemic injustices no longer exist. Until that day comes, we remain steadfast in our mission, our advocacy, and our commitment to building a Wisconsin where every person, in all their intersecting identities, is valued, protected, and empowered.
Take Action: Support Equity, Inclusion, and LGBTQ+ Rights
At a time when funding for DEI initiatives and LGBTQ+ programs is under attack, supporting this work is more critical than ever. The programs we provide at Diverse & Resilient address health disparities, increase access to life-saving resources, and create affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ people, especially those who have been historically excluded. Your support ensures that this work moves forward. Consider making a donation to sustain and grow these essential programs by visiting diverseandresilient.networkforgood.com.
Additionally, advocacy starts with action. Find out who your elected officials are and contact them to stress the importance of supporting DEI efforts, LGBTQ+ programming, and protections for transgender people. Let them know that these programs save lives and strengthen our communities. You can look up your elected leaders at www.myvote.wi.gov.
Together, we can honor Black history by fighting for a future where equity is not just a vision but a reality.
