It’s February, and for me this time of year holds a special meaning for a couple of reasons. First, this time always reminds me of my personal experience during Black History Month. Second, this year I have an exciting new development I can’t wait to share with you all!
I remember as a child, we recognized Black History Month in school with lessons, discussions and activities (usually with food) centered on African American culture. Those early experiences during school were a mix of emotions ranging from pride and excitement to feelings of being different than others. As I’ve grown, attended college, started my career and family – I’m a proud mother of a daughter who recently graduated with her MBA – I have a greater appreciation of the efforts and contributions of others that have come before me. I feel very grateful this time of year that our educators and role models made time to teach us about our wonderful culture.
Now, I’m excited to come to work every day in a company that believes in inclusion and diversity as reflected in our hiring practices, community involvement and content programming. This year, I’m proud to announce a new development that will reinforce those values of diversity and inclusion at our place of work.
Comcast’s Oregon and Southwest Washington region is launching a new Employee Resource Group. The Black Employee Network (BEN) will enhance, influence and strengthen the relationships of our African American employees with each other and the wider Comcast community, with the goal of fostering a culture of inclusion within the workforce. Through professional development, career management, mentoring and networking opportunities, BEN strives to engage, empower and develop all employees, while investing in the communities in which we live and work. BEN will officially launch the end of the first quarter of 2018 and will join Out, Veterans Network, Women’s Network and Young Professionals Network (YPN) which help to foster a culture of awareness, respect and inclusion within the workplace.
So, happy Black History month! It’s going to be a great way to start another fantastic year.
— Deniese
