IYF Celebrates Black History Month with a Virtual Fireside Chat

This Black History Month, our team at IYF held a Virtual Fireside Chat honoring the 2025 theme, "African Americans and Labor." This event allowed us to reflect on the profound impact Black workers have had throughout history, from their transformative roles in shaping industries and economies to their continuous efforts in pushing for social and economic justice.  

The Legacy of Black Labor

The theme, "African Americans and Labor," highlights how labor has been central to Black history and culture, encompassing a vast spectrum of experiences, both voluntary and forced. From the agricultural labor of enslaved Africans to Black educators advocating for vocational training, and the role of organized labor in fighting injustice, Black workers have been at the forefront of shaping not only the American economy but global industries as well.

At IYF, we understand the deep legacy that Black labor holds in the fight for equality and economic opportunity, as it has been and is a powerful tool for empowerment, community-building, and social change. It’s a reminder that the contributions of Black workers—across industries, regions, and generations—have been and continue to be transformative in fighting systemic inequalities, for example, wage disparity and limited growth opportunities.

The Resilience and Leadership of Black Workers 

The fight for economic justice is ongoing, and Black professionals remain at the forefront, driving innovation, equity, and change. Challenging barriers such as wages, representation, and pathways for career growth that have long been denied are contributions that are not just about individual success but about reshaping systems for future generations. From boardrooms to creative spaces, from STEM to entrepreneurship, Black workers have not only shaped industries but have redefined what equity and leadership look like in the workplace.  

During the Fireside Chat, we explored powerful examples of Black labor, leadership, and economic advocacy, including the role of some key Black women in shaping the workforce and driving change. Our discussions highlighted how historical and present-day inequities continue to shape the workforce, while also recognizing the resilience and contributions of Black professionals across industries.  

Lanibel Collado, Financial Coordinator at IYF, examined the legacy of Black medical pioneers and the persistent impact of medical racism and subconscious bias, underscoring how systemic barriers in healthcare extend beyond patient care to disparities in professional opportunities for Black medical practitioners. Ashleigh Gilley, IYF's Program Coordinator, presented on wage and wealth disparity, illustrating how deep-rooted economic inequities continue to affect Black workers’ earning potential and financial stability.  

Ivelina Benitez, IYF's Director of US Workforce Development, highlighted the role of Black women in shaping the workforce, from education and legislation to government and corporate leadership, emphasizing their influence in breaking barriers and advocating for systemic change.

These discussions reinforced a critical truth: Black laborers have long been at the helm of societal and economic progress. The Fireside Chat was not only a reflection on history but a call to action—urging us to continue advocating for equitable workplaces and economic justice. 

Empowering the Next Generation

As we honor Black labor’s legacy, we remain focused on the future—particularly in how we can create opportunities for the next generation of young professionals. At IYF, our mission is clear: to provide young people with the skills, resources, and support they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world of work. This includes ensuring that young Black professionals have access to the tools and opportunities needed to succeed in industries and roles where they’ve historically been underrepresented.

Our commitment to workforce development is at the heart of everything we do. Through our programs, we aim to level the playing field, ensuring that all young people—regardless of their background—can access meaningful career pathways. Whether through skills training, mentorship, or partnership with employers, we focus on equipping young people with the tools necessary to navigate the evolving landscape of work, where equity and opportunity are key.

At IYF, we believe in directly addressing these barriers by ensuring that young Black professionals gain access to industries where exclusion has been the norm—whether that’s corporate leadership, STEM, finance, or the creative economy. Our programs don’t just offer skill-building; they provide direct connections to economic opportunity—because talent and ambition alone are not enough in a system designed to leave certain people out. 

By investing in Black youth today, we are not just shaping individual careers—we are reshaping the workforce itself. That is the true legacy of Black labor: not just participation, but power.