Support Black Excellence and Diversity Throughout the Year
It’s again that time of year. Americans take the allotted 28 or 29 days in February to commemorate the achievements of Black Americans in all fields – from civil rights to technology. But instead of a month to support Black-owned businesses – let’s admit that this should be a year-round effort – 24/7 and all 365 days. We should always recommend and support Black- and minority-owned businesses, entrepreneurs and thought leaders who push us forward. These are the people who inspire me. So, it’s one of 2021 goals stay actively involved and to feature notable travelers and leaders throughout the year.
And to kick off this year of good news, I want to urge anyone who hasn’t to check out the February issue of Travel + Leisure for a special feature about the emergence of the Black Travel Movement over the past 10 years. I was excited to see that two Kenya-related articles – my first experience traveling to Africa and traveling to Kenya during a global pandemic – are featured as part of the impressive digital content package. But more importantly, it’s amazing to see the bylines of Black travel journalists and writers covering the industry from different angles.
It’s even more inspiring to see Danielle Pointdujour as the guest editor for the Black Travel Movement feature as well as her articles, which include “Why Black Travel Movement Matters, According to 6 Influencers.” And it’s always fun following Travis Levius on Instagram as he travels the world, but his article, “The Luxury Travel Industry Has a Race Problem – Here’s How to Fix It,” addresses the concerns about the lack of black and brown people in luxury travel; something I realized firsthand working in the industry for several years. All of these stories are aimed at revealing the importance and necessity of diversity in the travel industry.
Whether you travel or not, seek out black and brown writers, photographers, business owners, tour operators, etc. when planning a future trip or even if you’re looking for some inspiration, from people sharing their unique experiences, such as award-winning photographer and author Lola Akinmade Akerstrom, award-winning docuseries producer Ernest White II (aka Fly Brother), award-winning travel journalist Heather Greenwood Davis, and yes, organizations challenging the travel industry to include BIPOC voices, like The Black Travel Alliance.
Another group and initiative to consider supporting is The Collective. This group of Black travel media and publicists just released The Black List, a growing list that serves as both travel inspiration and a reminder to support Black and minority-owned businesses. Again, please promote and recommend Black- and minority-owned businesses, but also seek out other diverse voices for your personal growth not only this month, but throughout the year.
OTHER RELATED ARTICLES
Henderson Travel Agency: The First Accredited African-American Travel Agency
11-Amazing Black-Owned Hotels Around the World
How Coronavirus Has Impacted Travelers of Color
How Travel Shaped Frederick Douglass’ Famous Speech ‘What to the slave is the Fourth of July?’
Black Chefs Talk About the Importance of Gathering for a Meal to Celebrate Juneteenth
