Last week, I had the privilege of attending the 2023 Black Male Educator Appreciation Day at the Georgia State Capitol. The event was hosted by Mr. Jason B Allen, long time Atlanta educational leader, community organizer and entrepreneur. At the start of the event, Jason asked the distinguished panel of Black Male Educators to consider the question: As Black Male Educators, where do we go next?
From the panel of beautiful Black Male Educators representing different parts of the state and different positions within education, responses included, but not limited to, enhancing mental health support for our students, establishing a teacher base salary, and so much more. One brotha on the panel, Alfred Shivy, an educator, entrepreneur, ——, encouraged us all to “Play the Long Game.”
That phrase really resonated with me. It got me thinking about the “long game”. When it was my turn to speak, I shared thoughts from my perspective as a Leadership Development Coach speaking directly to Black Male Educators (and myself).
The follow are the three (3) things I shared:
- Acknowledge & Celebrate – Fellas, let’s acknowledge and celebrate the fact that we are “doing a lot” to support our students, their families, our colleagues and our own families every single day.
- Take Care of Yourself – Fellas, since we are “doing a lot”, let’s be sure to build and sustain emotional, physical, psychological and spiritual wellness practices, so that we can thrive in our schools and organizations.
- Build Coalitions – Fellas, let’s commit ourselves to learning the tools and leadership strategies to build healthy and fruitful coalitions where we are, so that others join us in addressing inequities in our schools and communities.
To watch my full response, click here.
Today’s education landscape needs Black male leaders like you (and me) – intelligent, passionate, and committed to engaging in transformational action that improves students’ lives. I am building an intergenerational community for Black Male Educators where we can:
- Embrace our Blackness;
- Grow alongside high-caliber peers; and
- Ignite our fire for leadership.
Fellas, if you are looking for a leadership focused learning community where you can get access to the tools and hone your skills in the three areas above, join me this summer at the BMEsTalk Catalyst, July 11-14, 2023.
Click HERE to learn more AND secure your advanced tickets.
There is an African Proverb that says, “If you want to go fast, go alone; but if you want to go far, go together.”
We are providing in-person training and virtual coaching to enhance the emotional intelligence and leadership skills of Black Male Educators, so they can thrive and grow in the profession.
