As a proud scholar of African American Studies—Office for New American Job Coach—and a passionate community advocate, I believe that Black History Month is a vital opportunity for Black individuals across the United States to honor the enduring legacy and sacrifices of our ancestors. History has demonstrated that our nation’s foundational ideals—life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness—are rooted in the belief that all people are created equal in the eyes of God. While these ideals have been self-evident since the founding of our great nation, their full realization has required tireless struggle. The experience of our ancestors, who were brought here in chains during the brutal era of slavery and stripped of their culture and humanity, serves as a powerful reminder of why our history should not be forgotten. Our ancestors mounted revolutionary efforts against their oppressors, and through generations of grassroots mobilization during the Civil Rights Era, their courage has continued to challenge the oppressive systems that sought to silence them. The fierce resistance of our forebears laid the foundation for our generation to reclaim and embody the true meaning of "Freedom"—a freedom that was not only fought for but earned through countless sacrifices. Their legacy calls us to continue this struggle and to move forward with dignity, unity, and purpose.

Furthermore, I believe that Black History Month is more than just a celebration. It is an urgent call to recognize our shared culture and interconnectedness. Under the banner of "E Pluribus Unum" (Out of Many, One), it is vital to acknowledge that, despite the forces seeking to divide us, we, as Human Beings, are united by our common humanity. By embracing our interconnected human experiences, we empower ourselves and others to uplift all people, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, or national origin. We must heed the call made by our hero Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to judge individuals "by the content of their character"—an invitation to engage in self-examination and reflect on the forces that shape us collectively. It is our responsibility to stand with dignity, manifesting empathy and solidarity for every soul created in the image of God—especially during challenging times like these.



Respectfully,

Mohamed Thiam

Mohamed Thiam is originally from Senegal (in West Africa) and is a New York resident in the City of Syracuse. He graduated from Syracuse University with a Master of Arts in Pan-African Studies. He also holds a bachelor's degree in African, British, and American Literature and Civilizations from Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar, Senegal. His areas of focus include Pan-African Studies, global migration policies, international relations, international politics and economics, and the political economy of developing countries.

Mohamed serves as an ONA Job Coach at Interfaith Works of Central New York and is a dedicated community advocate. In these roles, he actively works to revitalize workforce development in Central New York by fostering strong partnerships with government agencies, non-governmental organizations, corporate businesses, local leaders, and other stakeholders. His mission is to advocate for equal opportunities and promote economic empowerment for immigrants, new Americans, asylees, and all underrepresented communities across region.

Due to President Trump’s Executive Order, the United States Refugee Admission Program is currently on pause, affecting the arrival of new Americans into the country. Currently, we are unable to accept in-kind donations to set up homes for our newly arrived clients. The Executive Order is in effect until the end of April. Please feel free to check in with us in May about our need for donations.

Would you like to support InterFaith Works, but are unsure of how your gift can meet your needs and the immediate and long-term needs of the agency? Please feel free to contact The Rev. Dr. Cynthia Mapstone, Director of Philanthropy, at 315-449-3552, ext. 220, or email cmapstone@ifwcny.org. We would be pleased to speak with you about our agency, its programs and your philanthropic interests.

Matching Gifts through your Employer

Let your employer share in your generosity! Matching gifts are a great way to take advantage of your company’s donation programs on behalf of InterFaith Works, and double the size of your gift to us!

You may not realize your employer (or your spouse’s employer) has a matching gifts program - a visit with the Human Resources Department, Employee Relations Representative, or Union Representative can provide the information. These administrators can help you with the simple application process to receive a match for your contribution to InterFaith Works. You and your company will be recognized as donors to InterFaith Works, and you’ll both benefit from the donation tax deduction.

Some companies even match spouse and retiree donations - so a quick consultation with a Human Resources representative may make a BIG difference to InterFaith Works! While most matches are 1:1, dollar to dollar, some companies have programs that match at a rate as high as 4:1. So find out today if there are programs at your company you can participate in to help us continue to affirm dignity!

About InterFaith Works of CNY



InterFaith Works affirms the dignity of each person and every faith tradition, builds racial and religious equity, and creates bridges of understanding among us. The agency has served the Central New York Community for 48 years with programs that include the Center for Healthy Aging, the Center for New Americans, and the El-Hindi Center for Dialogue & Action.

InterFaith Works of CNY | 1010 James St. | Syracuse, NY 13203

Phone: 315-449-3552 | Fax: 315-449-3103 | Email: info@ifwcny.org | interfaithworks.org