FEBRUARY 2023 EDITION
The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce's monthly diversity, equity, and inclusion newsletter provides updates, programming, resources, and professional development to empower the business community to contribute to an equitable and inclusive region.

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Reflecting During Black History Month
AT&T is committed to creating connections with the communities it serves by leading programs that aim to make a real difference. That’s important every month, but hits differently during Black History Month. AT&T has been working to help bridge the digital divide for millions of people across the country that lack access to high-quality connectivity — a gap that disproportionately impacts communities of color for a variety of reasons. A recent study noted that roughly half of Black workers have the advanced or proficient digital skills needed to thrive in our increasingly tech-driven economy, compared with 77% of white workers. A key aspect of solving this issue is ensuring people have the digital skills and resources needed to fully thrive in today’s world.

That’s why AT&T is working to help people better understand how to get online and use technology and is collaborating with organizations to train and deploy “Digital Navigators” in communities across the country. This program focuses on training trusted members of the community to help others within their community access the internet, use technology and devices and boost their digital skills to access important resources. It’s people helping people see the true value and benefits of connectivity.

The importance of connection is highlighted in everything AT&T does. Being connected to the community and local resources can help drive people and help people work together to achieve greater possibilities. That is why Black History Month is so important to AT&T. Together, AT&T is recognizing and honoring the past while looking forward to the world of possibilities ahead.
February Observations & Celebrations
Black History Month
February 5 to 6: Tu b’shevat
February 18: Maha Shivratri
February 20: World Day of Social Justice
February 21: Mardi Gras
February 22: Ash Wednesday
Civil Rights Activist Headlines Lansing Economic Club
At the series kick-off of the 2023 Lansing Economic Club series, actress, author, and civil rights activist Donzaleigh Abernathy focused her talk on the business case for diversity, equity and inclusion, economic justice, and civil rights.

“We hate each other because we don’t know each other. We don’t know each other because we won’t talk to each other. We don’t talk to each other because we don’t sit together. But imagine if we sat together.” – Donzaleigh Abernathy

Ms. Abernathy also provided an in-depth look at her journey watching her parents, Reverend Ralph Abernathy and Juanita Abernathy as well as her godparents, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr and Coretta Scott King. 
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Series: Building Inclusive & Accessible Workspaces
Date & Time: Tuesday, Feb. 28 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Location: Peckham Inc.
Cost: The program is offered at no cost for Lansing Regional Chamber members and $25 for future members.

Program Overview: The program will feature a panel discussion focused on how to foster a true sense of belonging for employees with disabilities.

Panelists include:
  • Justin Caine, Visionary / Co-Founder. Good Fruit Video
  • Meegan Winters, Co-Founder / CEO, Able Eyes
  • Sarah George, director of mission initiatives, Peckham Inc.
  • Moderator: Anna Warbach, MA, CRC, business relations consultant, Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity

Tours of Peckham will be offered after the panel discussion. If you would like to sign up for a tour, please contact [email protected] prior to the event to secure your spot. 
ATHENA WIN Girls' Night Out: LiveWELL - The Healing Community
Date & Time: Wednesday, Feb. 15 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Location: LiveWELL: The Healing Community
Cost: The event is $25 for ATHENA WIN members and $35 for future members.

Program Overview: Explore and experience the Healing Lounge's state-of-the-art equipment to help you relax, repair, recover, and recharge. You can sample many alternative treatment modalities: Solo Sunlighten infrared sauna, Shiatsu massage chair, dry salt therapy, aromatherapy, sound-healing meditation, whole body vibration, hand-held massagers, acupressure mat, and much more. 
What We're Reading
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