Black History Month Essay Contest Winners
[/av_textblock] [av_textblock size='16' font_color='' color='' av-medium-font-size='' av-small-font-size='' av-mini-font-size='' admin_preview_bg=''] Everyone who submitted an essay will receive a prize package from our Company Store.Congratulations to the following employees:
Cherita W., Operations Manager in Little Rock, AR
Michael T., who works at our Sunshine Canyon Landfill in CA
DeBorah W., Customer Resource Consultant in Charlotte, NC
Keep watching Blue Nation Online for contests and quizzes (and prizes)! Make BlueNationOnline.com a favorite site and visit daily to keep up with what’s happening across our Blue Nation (and did we mention, prizes?!?!)
[/av_textblock]
[av_textblock size='' font_color='' color='' av-medium-font-size='' av-small-font-size='' av-mini-font-size='' admin_preview_bg='']
posted on 04/05/2019
[/av_textblock]
[/av_one_full][av_one_full first min_height='av-equal-height-column' vertical_alignment='av-align-top' space='' margin='0px' margin_sync='true' padding='0px' padding_sync='true' border='' border_color='' radius='0px' radius_sync='true' background_color='' src='' attachment='' attachment_size='' background_position='top left' background_repeat='no-repeat' animation='' mobile_breaking='' mobile_display='']
[av_textblock size='30' font_color='custom' color='#004a7c' av-medium-font-size='' av-small-font-size='' av-mini-font-size='' admin_preview_bg='']
A Focus on Diversity and Inclusion – Q&A with Mike Huycke
[/av_textblock] [av_textblock size='16' font_color='' color='' av-medium-font-size='' av-small-font-size='' av-mini-font-size='' admin_preview_bg=''] At Republic, we value the contributions and diversity of all our employees. Different backgrounds, ideas and thoughts help make Republic a great place to work. Our awesome employees are a big reason we’re an industry leader. We recently chatted with Mike Huycke, Senior Vice President, Human Resources, to learn more about diversity and inclusion at Republic.Can you tell us a little about your role at Republic? I’m responsible for delivering an overall talent strategy that supports Republic’s growth strategy and business goals. As it relates to diversity and inclusion, my team partners closely with the MOSAIC (Mission of Supporting an Inclusive Culture) Council, to implement a comprehensive diversity and inclusion strategy that aligns with the Company’s strategic business objectives with an ultimate goal of being a place where the best people come to work.
How do you define diversity and inclusion? Diversity and Inclusion can be defined in the following ways:
- Diversity: People with different backgrounds, experiences, perspectives and beliefs that create unique value and drive innovation for achieving our strategic business objectives.
- Inclusion: Actively and intentionally creating an environment in which all individuals are welcomed and valued.
Why is diversity and inclusion so important? At Republic Services, our employees set us apart from the competition. They differentiate us. Their unique ideas, experiences and backgrounds make everything we do for our customers, communities and planet possible. Hiring the best people is more than just a good business strategy — it’s fundamental to who we are and essential for us to win.
What’s on the radar this year for D&I at Republic? As a company, we are placing more focus on leadership behaviors and employee engagement. We are launching a new and improved D&I SharePoint site with tools and resources for employees to increase their understanding of D&I. In addition, we’re excited to also be launching Women of Republic Business Resource Group to field employees, just to name a few.
It’s Black History Month. Why do you think it’s important for us, as a Company, to celebrate different heritages, cultures and diversity? Black History Month is important because it provides an opportunity to place the spotlight on the best of African-American culture and history; celebrating the contributions of African-Americans past and present. Our African-American employees and their families are important parts of Republic’s team and culture.
[/av_textblock]
[av_textblock size='' font_color='' color='' av-medium-font-size='' av-small-font-size='' av-mini-font-size='' admin_preview_bg='']
posted on 02/21/2019
[/av_textblock]
[/av_one_full]
[av_hr class='custom' height='50' shadow='no-shadow' position='center' custom_border='av-border-thin' custom_width='800' custom_border_color='#004a7c' custom_margin_top='10px' custom_margin_bottom='0px' icon_select='no' custom_icon_color='' icon='ue808' font='entypo-fontello' admin_preview_bg='']
[av_one_full first min_height='av-equal-height-column' vertical_alignment='av-align-top' space='' margin='0px' margin_sync='true' padding='0px' padding_sync='true' border='' border_color='' radius='0px' radius_sync='true' background_color='' src='' attachment='' attachment_size='' background_position='top left' background_repeat='no-repeat' animation='' mobile_breaking='' mobile_display='']
[av_textblock size='30' font_color='custom' color='#004a7c' av-medium-font-size='' av-small-font-size='' av-mini-font-size='' admin_preview_bg='']
What Black History Month Means to Me
[/av_textblock] [av_textblock size='16' font_color='' color='' av-medium-font-size='' av-small-font-size='' av-mini-font-size='' admin_preview_bg=''] Thank you to the following employees for submitting essays in celebration of Black History Month.Cherita W., Operations Manager in Little Rock, AR
“Black History Month is something I have always appreciated. It was not until I grew up and became an adult, when I truly understood and appreciated Black History Month is not just for Black people; it highlights the greatness of my ancestors for the entire world to know and consider. As an African American, we learn about Black History all year round. The month of February feels really special, because you know you are in union with the world – in celebration of the ideas and inventions many people did not know the origins of. What’s amazing is the “awe” that comes over people when they realize just how much African Americans contributed to the world. It’s an introduction of something new to those around you, or maybe even a refresher. Either way it’s almost like being front row at an amazing show, and being able to say the artist (whose talents everyone enjoys) is a family member. When the world talks about the civil rights actions of Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King, Jr, the literary greatness of Maya Angelou and Langston Hughes, or the medicinal contributions of Ernest E. Just, MD and Daniel Hale Williams, MD – I can say “those are my brothers and sisters.” It is so easy to look at where we are, and see from where we have come, and take for granted who pioneered that path. Trails were blazed not only for African Americans by African Americans, but for every person who is able to further and better themselves in various industries. Minds are opened because Black History Month not only details “African American” history, but world history. It’s a privilege to be part of that.”
Michael T., who works at our Sunshine Canyon Landfill in CA.
“Greatness comes from the unknown. We as a people were denied partaking in many things this great country had to offer. We were looked upon as ugly and useless, good enough to work and nothing more. We grew to believe this about ourselves for decades until some strong people rose up. What people fail to realize is that it wasn't only people of color that broke our bondage, there were white liberators as well. So instead of calling February Black History Month, I think it should be changed to ‘People of the Struggle’ Month and all people who helped and gave their lives for people of color should be honored. To understand the history of people of color is to start by understanding where they come from, who they are and why are they so misunderstood. Before being sold into slavery, we were kings, queens, astrologers, builders, seamen, etc. Our history didn't start in America. To know us is to love us. We all are history. We all are the same. February is the shortest month of the year, which is not long enough to know me.”
DeBorah W., Customer Resource Consultant in Charlotte, NC
“Black History Month is a time to reflect, stand proud and appreciate the contributions and legacies of pioneers and ancestors. Growing up, I lived near black professionals and many black-owned businesses. I remember how the community was like a village. Years later, I realized that even though these people had the education, skills, and knowledge to perform in their professions, they were still limited. When I started in the workforce, I began to experience the same limitations as they encountered. I began to study why we had to prove ourselves so much more than others. It was interesting to learn of the struggles and sacrifices of Martin Luther King and Rosa Parks. It was as intriguing to learn of the talented ones that are not often spoken of, such as Lewis Latimer, famous for the patent of a carbon filament for the incandescent lightbulb; Jan Ernst Matzeliger, the inventor of the automatic shoe-making machine; George Washington Carver, who influenced crop rotation; Madam C.J. Walker, a successful businesswoman; James E. West, who patented microphones used in 90% of baby monitors, cell phones, laptops, and hearing aids. These people and many others left a legacy that we as African Americans can be proud of and share their stories with our children and grandchildren. I am born of a family of ministers, educators, entrepreneurs, medical professionals, law enforcement, military, and activists. All of whom have helped shape me to be the person I am today. Black History to me means that when there is knowledge, strength, and power, nothing is out of reach.”
If you would like to share what Black History Month means to you, send your story to BlueNation@RepublicServices.com. Everyone who submits an entry will be entered into a drawing to win some cool Republic swag! The contest ends February 28. Winners will be announced on March. 4
[/av_textblock]
[av_textblock size='10' font_color='' color='' av-medium-font-size='' av-small-font-size='' av-mini-font-size='' admin_preview_bg='']
posted on 02/21/2019
[/av_textblock]
[/av_one_full]
[av_one_full first min_height='av-equal-height-column' vertical_alignment='av-align-top' space='' margin='0px' margin_sync='true' padding='0px' padding_sync='true' border='' border_color='' radius='0px' radius_sync='true' background_color='' src='' attachment='' attachment_size='' background_position='top left' background_repeat='no-repeat' animation='' mobile_breaking='' mobile_display='']
[av_textblock size='30' font_color='custom' color='#004a7c' av-medium-font-size='' av-small-font-size='' av-mini-font-size='' admin_preview_bg='']
5 Great Ways to Celebrate Black History Month Throughout the Year
[/av_textblock] [av_textblock size='16' font_color='' color='' av-medium-font-size='' av-small-font-size='' av-mini-font-size='' admin_preview_bg=''] At Republic, we value the contributions of African American men and women. February is Black History Month, and it’s important to take time to recognize and celebrate the differences African Americans have made throughout history. From Martin Luther King, Jr. to Barack Obama, we’ve had many amazing individuals make an impact in the world.Throughout the month of February, we celebrate Black History Month as a nation. But what can you do as an individual to celebrate? Check out the ideas below that honor and celebrate this special month!
- Read books written by African American authors. When you read books written by African American authors, you are not only supporting their creative efforts but expanding your knowledge of new stories told from a different perspective.
- Support African American owned local businesses. Giving your support to African American owned businesses is a great way to support these entrepreneurs. To find an African American owned business in your neighborhood, visit sites like Black Owned Biz and Support Black Owned.
- Become a mentor. We all have a unique opportunity to make a difference as a mentor. By guiding and mentoring an African American youth, you are helping support tomorrow’s leaders.
- Support influential African American nonprofits. There are so many great nonprofits working to make a difference for African Americans. From helping young girls break into the tech industry to ending homelessness, you can help make difference.
- Seek out and enjoy African American art. Regularly taking time to appreciate art is good for the soul. Take the time to attend some art shows that feature African American artists.
https://mashable.com/2017/02/04/black-history-month-ways-to-celebrate/#AI2tPGj7piqX
https://mashable.com/2015/03/31/black-owned-businesses/#G2IVQA1uZaqi
posted on 02/06/2019
[/av_textblock]
[av_hr class='custom' height='50' shadow='no-shadow' position='center' custom_border='av-border-thin' custom_width='800' custom_border_color='#004a7c' custom_margin_top='10px' custom_margin_bottom='0px' icon_select='no' custom_icon_color='' icon='ue808' font='entypo-fontello' admin_preview_bg='']
[av_one_full first min_height='av-equal-height-column' vertical_alignment='av-align-top' space='' margin='0px' margin_sync='true' padding='0px' padding_sync='true' border='' border_color='' radius='0px' radius_sync='true' background_color='' src='' attachment='' attachment_size='' background_position='top left' background_repeat='no-repeat' animation='' mobile_breaking='' mobile_display='']
[av_textblock size='30' font_color='custom' color='#004a7c' av-medium-font-size='' av-small-font-size='' av-mini-font-size='' admin_preview_bg='']
Enter Black History Month Essay Contest
[/av_textblock] [av_textblock size='16' font_color='' color='' av-medium-font-size='' av-small-font-size='' av-mini-font-size='' admin_preview_bg='']What Does Black History Month Mean to You?
Throughout the decades, there have been countless African-American men and women who have made history, and every February we honor and celebrate their contributions to society. We value these leaders and pioneers who worked hard to make a difference in the world.
We’ll be celebrating Black History Month throughout February with articles, polls and prizes. To enter the prize drawing, we want to know what Black History Month means to you!
Send an email to BlueNation@RepublicServices.com telling us what Black History Month means to you, and we’ll feature selected entries here (entries with photos are encouraged). Everyone who submits an entry will be entered into a drawing to win some cool Republic swag for your efforts! The contest ends February 28. Winners will be announced on March 4.
[/av_textblock]
[/av_one_full]
[av_one_full first min_height='' vertical_alignment='av-align-top' space='' margin='0px' margin_sync='true' padding='20px' padding_sync='true' border='' border_color='' radius='0px' radius_sync='true' background_color='#f38a00' src='' attachment='' attachment_size='' background_position='top left' background_repeat='no-repeat' animation='' mobile_breaking='' mobile_display='']
[av_textblock size='20' font_color='custom' color='#ffffff' av-medium-font-size='' av-small-font-size='' av-mini-font-size='' admin_preview_bg='']
Prominent Figures in Black History
[/av_textblock] [av_textblock size='16' font_color='custom' color='#ffffff' av-medium-font-size='' av-small-font-size='' av-mini-font-size='' admin_preview_bg=''](Click their name to learn more)
[/av_textblock] [/av_one_full] [av_hr class='invisible' height='20' shadow='no-shadow' position='center' custom_border='av-border-thin' custom_width='50px' custom_border_color='' custom_margin_top='30px' custom_margin_bottom='30px' icon_select='yes' custom_icon_color='' icon='ue808' font='entypo-fontello' admin_preview_bg=''] [av_textblock size='10' font_color='' color='' av-medium-font-size='' av-small-font-size='' av-mini-font-size='' admin_preview_bg=''] posted on 02/05/2019[/av_textblock] [av_hr class='custom' height='50' shadow='no-shadow' position='center' custom_border='av-border-thin' custom_width='1000' custom_border_color='#004a7c' custom_margin_top='10px' custom_margin_bottom='0px' icon_select='no' custom_icon_color='' icon='ue808' font='entypo-fontello' admin_preview_bg='']