Staff Spotlight: Sandi Richmond on Black History Month
February 24, 2023, Katie Huynh
In honor of Black History Month, we interviewed Sandi Richmond, our Director of Community Engagement & Recruitment, to share her experiences as a Black woman. Sandi shared her thoughts on the significance of Black History Month, and how it intersects with youth mentoring work and her role at Big Brothers Big Sisters Twin Cities.
How do you identify yourself?
I am a proud southern Black woman from Georgia, so technically, I guess you could consider me a “Georgia peach”!
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month is a designated month of 28 (sometimes 29) days to celebrate not only Black history and the triumph of black leaders, but also a time to intentionally connect with elders, support black businesses, and amplify the uniqueness of black people.
How do you see this month intersecting with youth mentoring work and your role as the new Director of Community Engagement & Recruitment?
At Big Brothers Big Sisters Twin Cities, we know that over 80% of our youth identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color). In knowing this, we have the opportunity to educate the community about our needs while also reciprocating the needs of our partners in a collaborative way. We plan to do this by leveraging our brand through community engagement, deepening our community partners with shared values, and diversifying our volunteer pool with people that identify as BIPOC. Ultimately, we are looking to cultivate a space of belonging where everyone feels respected.
What inspirational quote from a Black leader would you like to share with Black youth?
My favorite quote comes from Shirley Chisholm, “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair”. To me, this is the ultimate squasher of excuses! It reminds me that nothing in life is promised, and if I deem it important- to just GO FOR IT!
