Inclusion in Action

February is Black History Month. It is a time to recognize the contributions, leadership, and impact of Black professionals throughout history and within our own accounting and finance community. How are you using the month to deepen understanding, spark conversation, or highlight history within your teams?

Your experiences can help others across the profession strengthen their own inclusion efforts. Feel free to share ideas, questions, or examples that others might learn from.

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Brittany Rockelle Brashear, PhD
Lead Manager, LGBTQ+ Initiatives
AICPA and CIMA
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Today, I had the privilege and honor of participating in AICPA & CIMA's Conversations That Matter event in honor of Black History Month. This year marks a remarkable milestone, 100 years since Black history was first formally recognized in the United States, a century of acknowledging the contributions, resilience, and brilliance of Black Americans. During our conversation, my colleagues and I courageously shared our lived experiences and the ways our culture has shaped how we move through the workplace. Many reflected on earlier points in their careers, when they were (and sometimes still are) the "only one" in the room, navigating feelings of isolation, invisibility or code switching to "fit in." But fast forward to today and hearing how so many transitioned into environments where they feel welcomed, valued, and represented was both powerful and inspiring, even if they are the only one. Something that everyone should be blessed to feel! I'm so grateful to work in a place where these conversations are encouraged, where we learn from one another, and where belonging is something we continuously strive to build - not just during Black History Month, but every day.

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Crystal Cooke
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I was in the session. Great sharing, Crystal and team! <3

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Mohamad Amirul Asyraf Bin Tengah
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Original Message:
Sent: 02-03-2026 13:06
From: Crystal Cooke
Subject: February is Black History Month

Today, I had the privilege and honor of participating in AICPA & CIMA's Conversations That Matter event in honor of Black History Month. This year marks a remarkable milestone, 100 years since Black history was first formally recognized in the United States, a century of acknowledging the contributions, resilience, and brilliance of Black Americans. During our conversation, my colleagues and I courageously shared our lived experiences and the ways our culture has shaped how we move through the workplace. Many reflected on earlier points in their careers, when they were (and sometimes still are) the "only one" in the room, navigating feelings of isolation, invisibility or code switching to "fit in." But fast forward to today and hearing how so many transitioned into environments where they feel welcomed, valued, and represented was both powerful and inspiring, even if they are the only one. Something that everyone should be blessed to feel! I'm so grateful to work in a place where these conversations are encouraged, where we learn from one another, and where belonging is something we continuously strive to build - not just during Black History Month, but every day.

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Crystal Cooke
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You did a phenomenal job, Crystal! Can't stress enough how amazing this event was! It was truly special to be a part of it and contribute my lived experience as well. Happy Black History Month!

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Courtney Collins
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Original Message:
Sent: 02-03-2026 13:06
From: Crystal Cooke
Subject: February is Black History Month

Today, I had the privilege and honor of participating in AICPA & CIMA's Conversations That Matter event in honor of Black History Month. This year marks a remarkable milestone, 100 years since Black history was first formally recognized in the United States, a century of acknowledging the contributions, resilience, and brilliance of Black Americans. During our conversation, my colleagues and I courageously shared our lived experiences and the ways our culture has shaped how we move through the workplace. Many reflected on earlier points in their careers, when they were (and sometimes still are) the "only one" in the room, navigating feelings of isolation, invisibility or code switching to "fit in." But fast forward to today and hearing how so many transitioned into environments where they feel welcomed, valued, and represented was both powerful and inspiring, even if they are the only one. Something that everyone should be blessed to feel! I'm so grateful to work in a place where these conversations are encouraged, where we learn from one another, and where belonging is something we continuously strive to build - not just during Black History Month, but every day.

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Crystal Cooke
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Mandy Gallagher, Ph.D.
Lead Manager, Women's Initiatives
AICPA & CIMA
Durham, NC
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Thanks for posting this Brittany!

At LGA, we celebrate Black History Month in unique ways every year, with a balanced approach of learning from the past, celebrating progress and highlighting and supporting Black professionals, clients and business owners. While these actions need to be a year-round focus, Black History Month serves as a reminder of the importance of continued intentionality around creating understanding, that leads to more diverse and inclusive organizations, and ultimately shared progress and success!

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John Geraci
Woburn MA
+17815694700
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We have a Black Employee Network that is putting on a lunch potluck in February. You can either bring a dish or contribute $15 towards the network's funds. We all get together in the largest conference room for fellowship over a shared meal and listen to an insightful presentation on the evolution of the Black labor force.

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Dean Weaver
Internal Auditor
Morgan Stanley
Jackson Heights NY
+1 7173050193
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