Celebrating Black history and Black present
From history to heritage, legacy becomes something lived and carried forward every day.
At United Way of Central Indiana, Black History Month — also recognized as Black Heritage Month — offers a time to reflect. Honoring Black heritage calls us to continue listening, learning and showing up in our work and our community.
We invited teammates to share what Black heritage means to them and how they celebrate it in their own lives.
Faraz Fayyaz
manager of software solutions
“Black Heritage Month is a time to recognize and honor the history of African Americans. While Black heritage cannot be confined to a single month, this time allows us to reflect on the injustices and challenges Black individuals have faced and continue to overcome.
The contributions of Black culture shape our society today and will continue to shape our world, reminding us that progress was hard-won and should never be taken for granted.”
Crystal Wigfall
director of culture and belonging
“I will celebrate Black Heritage Month by honoring the strength, brilliance and legacy of Black leaders, past and present, who paved the way for progress and possibility.
This month, especially alongside Valentine’s Day, I’m leaning into self-love as an act of resistance and restoration. I will take intentional time to reflect on identity, purpose and the responsibility to pour into myself as deeply as I pour into others. Loving myself means protecting my peace, honoring my worth and staying rooted in truth. In doing so, I celebrate Black heritage not just through remembrance, but through living fully, confidently and unapologetically.”
Chanae Palmer
research analyst
“This Black History Month feels different. Amid today's political and social climate, I'm reminded that honoring Black heritage cannot be confined to a single month; it is intertwined with our daily lived experiences, rooted in my ancestors' brilliance, creativity, sacrifices and resilience.
I carry a deep sense of gratitude and pride for the trailblazers, my family and community leaders who paved the way for my life. I am consistently inspired to push ahead despite the forces seeking to erase our histories.
Black History Month is more than a celebration; it's an invitation to show up thoughtfully for my community, to support organizations building pathways toward a better future, to honor the body and spirit as essential to sustaining the work ahead, to affirm my culture without apology, and to dream boldly that my two Black sons will grow up in a country they can feel proud of and confident navigating.”
Brad Schiesser
manager of leadership giving
“Black Heritage Month means that while the learning is year-round, there is a wonderful focal point to continue my education about the history, achievements and legacy of Black communities in Indiana and the world.
With all of the things going on around town, and special emphasis in February, it is a perfect time for me to listen to stories and reflect on the contributions of Black Americans that have shaped our society.”
Jorge D. Hutton
manager of economic mobility initiatives
“Black Heritage Month is a celebration of generational resilience. It reminds me that I stand on the shoulders of pioneers, activists, leaders and everyday individuals whose courage and vision broke barriers, opening doors so I can walk freely in spaces and seize opportunities once out of reach.
Their sacrifices inspire me to keep advocating for justice, educating others about the inherent dignity and humanity of Black people, and challenging ignorance wherever I encounter it. Every day, simply by living authentically as a Black man, I honor my heritage. I strive to persevere, reach new heights and lift others as I climb, creating space, representation and hope for the generations of Black youth who will follow. This is what Black Heritage Month means to me!”
LáLakesha Holmes-Allen
manager, donor relations
“As a Black girl from Gary, Indiana, Black history isn’t something I study; it’s something I live, shaped by a community built on faith, resilience and unapologetic strength. The lessons Gary gave me — standing tall, navigating systems not built for us and rising despite every attempt to dim our light — still guide me, grounded in the spiritual endurance that carried my ancestors.
As a Black woman, I rise with both faith and fire because God says I can, because my ancestors did, and because my existence is purpose-filled. PERIOD.”