Each February, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers joins our nation in observation and reflection of the tremendous contributions of Black Americans to our country and our history.
On February 28th, 2022, members from across the Great Lakes and Ohio River Division joined virtually to discuss the works of two incredible black leaders and authors; Maya Angelou and Nelson Mandela.
The event, organized by Equal Employment Opportunity Manager, Tracy Baker, and hosted by Sexual Assault Response Coordinator, Sarah Sullivan, was held to commemorate Black History Month across the division. Through reading and discussing the works from these two authors leaders, members from LRD's workforce engaged in dialogue to fully understand the diversity of perspectives that exist throughout the division.
The books that were chosen to read were both I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou, and Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela. During the discussion, Sullivan guided the group through a series of prepared questions to initiate reflective thought and provoke impactful conversation. By the end of the discussion, an open dialogue was shared between members across the division, sharing experiences and offering further reading recommendations.
The book club discussion was inspired by the well-received virtual event hosted in January of 2022. Division members were asked to read the powerful works of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. for discussion and review. After yet another well received book club discussion, members are already excited to send in their recommendations for books to discuss for the following months.
To learn more about USACE’s Black History Month observance, click here.
To learn more about USACE’s Special Emphasis Programs, click here.