February is Black History Month in the U.S., providing the opportunity for us to celebrate and honor the achievements and contributions of Black communities at Marqeta and beyond. BlackCard recognized the importance of honoring the impact Black artists have had on uplifting the Black community, speaking truth to power, and inspiring us all, so they have chosen to honor the ASALH national theme for BHM at Marqeta this year - African Americans in the Arts.
“African American art is more than just a reflection of the past—it is a testament to our enduring spirit. It is a mirror that reflects our struggles, our triumphs, and our unyielding determination to break barriers and defy expectations.”
Here’s a brief look back at some of the events that allowed us to immerse ourselves in the resilience, perseverance, and innovation of Black culture:
A Glimpse of BlackCard ERG's Events:
- Virtual Fireside Chat with Sandra Ernst: An enriching conversation with external speaker, CEO of Oakland Promise, on her journey, experiences and insight as she works to build a thriving Oakland community without barriers to educational opportunity. Sandra's invaluable advice was a source of inspiration for many.
“I love Black History Month because it is an opportunity to celebrate the rich contributions of Black Americans while honoring our resilience, creativity, and leadership. The incredible inventions by Black individuals, such as the pacemaker, traffic light, Super Soaker, and turntable, have greatly impacted society and shaped our everyday lives. Black History Month allows us to highlight these accomplishments as well as inspire a dialogue on inclusivity and equity.”
- Virtual Artist Spotlight: BlackCard ERG’s own Alexa Flagg hosted two esteemed artists for a glimpse of their stunning portfolios and a Q&A on their experience in the fashion and hair industries and how they are making Black history with their businesses.
- Exploration of Afrofuturism:
Steward Carter, Customer Success Director, provided an insightful background of the Afrofuturism movement and shared the connection between the movement and Black art.
“The Afrofuturism exploration was phenomenal. I did not realize how many of my musical and literary interests are afrofuturistic. The presentation was educational, entertaining, interactive and also a catalyst for some personal reflection.”
- Lunch and Learn at Marqeta HQ:
Dominique Braithwaite, HRIS Analyst, and Reginald Watson, Senior Counsel, highlighted the uniqueness of Jamaican culture over a meal by local Jamaican restaurant, Peach’s Patties.
- Virtual Black History Trivia: BlackCard hosted 3 fun rounds of trivia that highlighted historical Black figures in history. The competition was fierce!
Though the month allowed critical moments to connect, learn, and take action, it does not end here. With the month coming to a close, we invite fellow Marqetans and those reading this blog to continue to support, learn, and take action for Black Communities. To help get you started, we’ve crafted this list for you to explore (please note this is just a starting point):
Learning Materials
- Watch
- Movies are a great way to learn more about Black history. Check out this curated list of 44 movies to watch and learn from during Black History Month — or anytime.
- Read
- Colson Whitehead’s The Underground Railroad
- Listen
The 1619 Project, created by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones, looks at American history, slavery, and its legacy in the United States in 5 powerful episodes.
Pod Save the People with DeRay Mckesson focuses on overlooked stories and topics that often impact people of color
Community Support:
To support the community, you can consider making direct monetary donations, attending events, volunteering, or amplifying the missions and initiatives of the organizations below.
- We hosted CEO, Sandra Ernst, and are excited to share more about Oakland Promise’s mission with you all:
- Oakland Promise is available to young learners (from newborns to college students) and their families who reside in Oakland. OP offers every child the financial resources, educational programming, mentorship, and a supportive community to help them and their families, to seek out and thrive in higher education and the career of their choosing.
- Check out this curated list of 22 Black-led organizations
