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March is Women’s History Month, a time to honor the extraordinary contributions of women who have shaped our nation’s progress, prosperity, and moral integrity. First declared by the U.S. Congress in 1987, this month serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience, leadership, and innovation of women—particularly women of color—who have paved the way for generations to come. 

Each March, The Council celebrates the remarkable contributions women make to our society, while spotlighting influential yet underrecognized historical figures. 

While we commemorate these achievements, we must also acknowledge the challenges ahead. Across the nation, efforts to undermine Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives threaten the very progress that generations of women—and all marginalized communities—have fought tirelessly to achieve. The shifting political climate makes it more critical than ever to reaffirm our commitment to equitable opportunities and economic empowerment. We must not forget that there are approximately 14 million women-owned businesses in the U.S. that generate $2.7 trillion dollars in revenue each year. 

This year I encourage all of us to reflect on the influential women who have shaped our journeys and to discover the remarkable stories of the trailblazers we’ve featured here. 

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Audre Lorde, born in New York City to Caribbean immigrant parents, was able to rise up and emerge as a formidable poet, essayist, and activist who challenged several forms of oppression. While confronting racism, sexism, homophobia, and illness throughout her life, she remained committed to speaking truth to power and creating solidarity across differences. After publishing groundbreaking works like Sister Outsider and The Cancer Journals, she was honored with numerous awards. Lorde became an influential voice in feminist and civil rights movements, and in her famous 1977 speech at the National Women’s Conference, she emphasized the importance of intersectionality, declaring: “I have come to believe over and over again that what is most important to me must be spoken, made verbal and shared, even at the risk of having it bruised or misunderstood. For it is not difference which immobilizes us, but silence. And there are so many silences to be broken.”

Sojourner Truth, born into slavery as Isabella Baumfree in New York, transformed herself from an enslaved woman into a powerful abolitionist and women’s rights advocate during the turbulent period before the Civil War. After escaping slavery with her infant daughter in 1826, she successfully sued for her son’s freedom, becoming one of the first Black women to win such a case against a white man. Her famous “Ain’t I a Woman?” speech delivered at the 1851 Women’s Rights Convention in Akron, Ohio, eloquently challenged both racial and gender prejudices, declaring that women deserved equal rights to men. During the Civil War, she helped recruit Black troops for the Union Army while advocating for land redistribution to former slaves. She once proclaimed, “I feel safe in the midst of my enemies, for the truth is all powerful and will prevail,” a testament to her unwavering belief in justice that inspired generations of activists to follow.

Mae Mallory, a fearless civil rights activist and revolutionary, made history as a powerful advocate for Black liberation and self-defense in the face of racist violence. Known for her unwavering dedication to the freedom struggle, Mallory courageously fought against educational inequality in Harlem schools and emerged as a pivotal figure in her “Crusade for Justice.” Through her engagement with Robert F. Williams and the Freedom Now Party, in particular, she challenged mainstream civil rights techniques with her audacious position on armed resistance for Black safety. Mallory’s resilience was further demonstrated during her wrongful imprisonment and subsequent legal battle following the Monroe case, where she continued organizing despite severe persecution. Her legacy transcends her individual actions showcasing an unyielding commitment to Black freedom and community empowerment.

Grace Lee Boggs, a revered activist, philosopher, and author, left an indelible mark on the fight for civil rights, labor rights, and social justice. A visionary thinker and organizer, she dedicated over seven decades to advancing racial and economic equality, particularly in Detroit’s grassroots movements. Known for her profound belief in the power of community and self-determination, Boggs worked alongside laborers, activists, and marginalized communities to reimagine society through activism and education. Her legacy transcends activism alone, embodying a lifelong commitment to transformation, solidarity, and the pursuit of justice through both thought and action.

These are just a handful of the remarkable women who have fought to help minorities overcome oppressive obstacles. We honor and commend them for their courage and commitment to making the world a better place for future generations. 

Let this Women’s History Month be more than a celebration—let it be a call to action. Together, we can honor the past, empower the present, and build a future where all women, regardless of background, have the opportunity to succeed.

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At The Council, our goal is to help foster more opportunities for minority women-owned businesses to find success, regardless of the time of year. We invite you to check out our list of Council-certified women-owned businesses and reach out to those listed to create new business relationships. 

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Shamis Pitts (she/her) is the Founder and CEO of Pitts Leadership Consulting (PLC). She has operated at the intersection of strategy, people management and leadership and operations for 25+ years within various industries. Helping organizations and the people within them thrive is the purpose of her work.

Shamis holds an MBA from Cornell’s Johnson Graduate School of Management, concentrating in leadership and strategy, and a BA in Sociology from the University of Pennsylvania. She is an ICF-Certified Professional Coach at the PCC level, a SHRM-SCP, an ATD member and holds other DEI and coaching-specific certifications.

Shamis has been featured in Employee Benefit News and in Authority Magazine. She’s also a Featured Expert in the Growth Leadership course within The Bank of America Institute for Women’s Entrepreneurship at Cornell online certification. Shamis was awarded a Bronze Stevie for “Mentor or Coach of the Year – Business” at the 21st annual Stevie® Awards for Women in Business and was also selected  by Profiles in Diversity Journal® as a 2024 Women Worth Watching® in Leadership. 

Shamis is passionate about mentoring early and mid-career women of color, playing golf with her spouse and watching Columbo reruns.

About Pitts Leadership Consulting

Pitts Leadership Consulting is a human capital consulting company specializing in organizational health and business readiness. Their purpose is to help organizations create the conditions that drive employee retention and performance to amplify profitability and impact. To achieve this, PLC collaborates with clients to amplify organizational resilience without sacrificing employees in the process. 

Their services include consulting, advising, training and facilitation, coaching (individual, group, team), and keynote speaking. Their client services team understands that organizations must have the ability to adapt to changes over time and they utilize their expertise across organizational development, learning and development, strategic and operational HR and diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.

PLC is known for being thorough, thoughtful and compassionate in their work while addressing accountability. Launched in 2019 and formally established in 2020, PLC is an NMSDC-Certified Minority Business Enterprise and a WBENC-Certified Women’s Business Enterprise.

What does being a minority business, or supporting minority businesses, mean to you?

Being a minority and women-owned business means that I get to walk the talk. I am committed to supporting other minority and women-owned businesses. All of my service providers are minority and/or women-owned. 

I also serve on The Acceleration Project’s President’s Council. TAP is an innovative, award-winning consulting firm focused on under-resourced and underfunded small businesses, particularly women and minority-owned enterprises.

How has being certified with the NMSDC helped your business

Being part of the NMSDC community has been a wonderful experience. I have gained mentors who are willing to share knowledge and “real talk” advice to help me grow my business. I have developed friendships with other suppliers who provide me with helpful insights regarding what they are seeing and experiencing in the market. Finally, the support that I have received from NMSDC affiliate leaders, especially my home NYNJMSDC and Mid-States MSDC, have been instrumental in inviting me into spaces where I can connect with potential buyers and build awareness about PLC.

What is one thing you wish you had known when you were starting out in your career?

I wish I had understood the importance of my personal wellbeing to enable sustained effectiveness at work. When I entered the workforce, I was an overachiever, which translated into perfectionism and workaholism. I loved being given the opportunity to learn and be involved in so many intellectually stimulating projects. I was highly engaged, but my wellbeing was low, which led to burnout. 

Wellbeing is multidimensional. I have so many tools in my toolbox now and endeavor to help others build wellbeing practices to enhance their leadership capacity and capabilities.

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For more information on Pitts Leadership Consulting, please visit: https://pittsleadership.com/ or follow them on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pitts-leadership-consulting/ 

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Stephen Ball began his career practicing law at a major firm in New York City. Since then, he has held senior roles across several industries, including financial services, technology, and higher education. Stephen earned his J.D. from Harvard Law School, along with a master’s degree in public policy and a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Michigan.

A first-generation college graduate from Metro Detroit, Stephen is deeply passionate about guiding and supporting students as they pursue their educational aspirations. He strongly believes in the mantra of lifting others as we climb.

While Michigan remains his foundation, Stephen now proudly calls the Garden State of New Jersey his home. Living in such a vibrant metropolitan area filled with diverse entrepreneurs and business owners continues to energize and inspire him.

About Wisdem USA

Founded in 2019, Wisdem USA specializes in college admissions advising, essay coaching, and digital resources designed to help students approach the college admissions process with confidence and clarity. The name “Wisdem” reflects the company’s mission to democratize wisdom and empower individuals to achieve their goals.

Wisdem USA has served clients across the Tri-State area, throughout the United States, and internationally. By meeting with clients online, the company ensures accessibility to students virtually anywhere. Committed to inclusivity, Wisdem USA welcomes students of all academic levels—whether they have a 4.0 GPA or a 2.0 GPA. Additionally, the company offers a range of products and services tailored to fit the needs of clients from diverse economic backgrounds.

What does being a minority business, or supporting minority businesses, mean to you?

Being a minority-owned business carries an inherent sense of responsibility to serve the community through the products and services we offer. While profitability is a goal for any business, I believe there’s a deeper purpose at play. The opportunities I’ve had are rooted in the sacrifices of previous generations—many of whom were community-focused business owners. Honoring their legacy means doing my part to support and uplift my community, both today and for future generations.

How has being certified with the NMSDC helped your business?

As a newer business focused on growth and building partnerships with educational institutions and corporations, NMSDC certification has been invaluable. It serves as a trusted mark of credibility that resonates with prospective partners. Additionally, the educational programs and events offered by the NMSDC have provided insights and opportunities that I might not have encountered otherwise.

What is one thing you wish you had known when you were starting out in your career?

One thing I wish I had known when starting my career is that the arc of a career is long and full of possibilities. Just as we grow and evolve as individuals, our careers can evolve with us. We’re not limited to a single path—we can explore new interests and passions, finding fulfillment in the process. Early on, I assumed my options were confined to one direction, but I’ve since learned that our paths can shift and expand in ways we may not initially imagine.

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For more information on Wisdem USA, please visit: wisdemusa.com or follow them on Instagram, Facebook, and X.

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Manish Desai is the founder of EcoRich Food Waste Solutions, a business specializing in composting and waste management equipment. With a business career that began in 1999, Manish successfully operated an auto parts business for 20 years before launching EcoRich Composting Equipment Company in 2015. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the business faced challenges as commercial kitchens temporarily closed, but operations rebounded strongly post-pandemic. Today, EcoRich serves clients in 16 states across the USA and Canada. The company offers two types of composters and a line of anaerobic digesters, providing waste management solutions capable of handling capacities ranging from 50 pounds to 4,000 pounds per day.

About EcoRich Food Waste Solutions

EcoRich is the exclusive North American distributor of equipment manufactured in India and Europe. Initially focused on home composting solutions, the company quickly recognized the growing global interest in food waste recycling. With the majority of food waste still ending up in landfills, EcoRich expanded its offerings to include commercial composters that transform food waste into nutrient-rich soil amendments for on-site use or sale.

EcoRich’s mission is to make on-site composting accessible, efficient, and affordable for businesses and organizations of all sizes. The company’s solutions are designed to minimize staff time, eliminate spills, pests, and odors, and enhance the overall aesthetic of food waste management processes. With a range of scalable products capable of handling 20 to 4,000 pounds of waste per day and customizable add-ons, EcoRich offers a sustainable alternative to traditional disposal methods.

To date, EcoRich has installed over 500 machines in 10 countries, supporting customers in achieving their sustainability goals. The team brings extensive expertise in sustainable waste management and environmental solutions, ensuring a seamless, stress-free composting experience tailored to each customer’s needs.

What does being a minority business, or supporting minority businesses, mean to you?

Being an MBE-certified business opens doors to opportunities in the government sector, where there is significant demand for innovative food waste solutions. This certification not only allows us to contribute to a growing need for sustainable practices in public sector projects but also strengthens our commitment to diversity and inclusivity in business.

How has being certified with the NMSDC helped your business?

Being certified with the NMSDC has opened new opportunities for us, resulting in orders that significantly contributed to our growth in 2024. This recognition has been instrumental in building connections and expanding our reach in key markets.

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For more information on EcoRich Food Waste Solutions, please visit: ecorichenv.com or follow them on LinkedIn and Facebook.

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As we celebrate Black History Month, we honor the remarkable achievements and enduring legacy of Black entrepreneurs and leaders who have shaped the business world and paved the way for progress. This month reminds us not only to reflect on the past but also to commit ourselves to building a future rooted in collaboration, empowerment, and opportunity.

At the Council, our mission has always been to advance diversity and inclusion within the business community. We strive to create pathways that connect minority-owned businesses with the resources, networks, and opportunities they need to succeed. These connections are not just transactions; they are partnerships that reflect the power of mutual support and collective growth.

Black History Month is a powerful reminder that no business stands alone. Success comes when we uplift each other, share knowledge, and foster environments where everyone has a chance to thrive. Within our network, we’ve witnessed countless examples of businesses coming together to mentor, partner, and amplify each other’s strengths. These stories inspire us and demonstrate the immense potential of unity and shared purpose.

If you are looking to make new connections with certified African-American owned businesses, we’ve collated a full list of businesses certified with the Council below.

As we move forward, I encourage every member of our community to reflect on how we can continue to champion one another. Seek out partnerships, invest in relationships, and support initiatives that embody the values of inclusivity and empowerment. Together, we can build a legacy that mirrors the courage and vision of those we celebrate this month.

Let us honor Black History Month by committing to the ideals it represents: resilience, innovation, and the unwavering belief in a brighter future for all.

In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., “We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.”

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Michael Bavaro is the Corporate Vice President at Navitas Partners, bringing over 15 years of experience in sales leadership and business development. Known for thriving under pressure, he consistently delivers exceptional results and tackles challenges with innovative, outside-the-box thinking. Michael excels in sales process optimization, strategic selling, customer relationship management, and team building. As an energetic and enthusiastic team leader, he values collaboration and holds teams accountable for achieving outstanding outcomes. With a proven track record of driving sales growth and building high-performing teams, Michael is a results-driven professional dedicated to elevating sales efforts to new heights.

About Navitas Partners

Navitas Partners is a forward-thinking global workforce solutions and technology services company that helps businesses transform for the digital age. With extensive expertise in professional and consulting services, we assist clients in reimagining their business, operations, and technology models. Our comprehensive portfolio spans Digital, IoT, Cloud, Automation, Cybersecurity, Analytics, Infrastructure Management, Engineering Services, and Administrative and Operations solutions. At Navitas, our success is driven by a dedicated and skilled team, all committed to putting clients first and delivering innovative solutions for the digital era.

What does being a minority business, or supporting minority businesses, mean to you?

Being a minority-owned business and supporting minority businesses signifies a deep commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities. As a minority-owned company, we take pride in bringing unique perspectives and innovative solutions that arise from diverse experiences and backgrounds. We foster a diverse workforce and an inclusive workplace where all employees are valued and respected, regardless of their background or identity.

Diversity is a core value and essential to our economic and community sustainability. We believe that diversity strengthens productivity, fuels innovation, enhances service excellence, and drives success. Supporting minority businesses means creating an environment where underrepresented groups can thrive, compete, and succeed. It’s about building opportunities, forging meaningful partnerships, and contributing to the economic growth of diverse communities. By working with and advocating for minority businesses, we help pave the way for innovation, resilience, and long-term success. Our goal is to inspire collaboration, create inclusive opportunities, and highlight the value of diversity in achieving excellence and driving progress.

How has being certified with the NMSDC helped your business?

Being certified with the NMSDC has played a pivotal role in the growth and success of our business. This certification has granted us access to a vast network of corporations actively seeking partnerships with minority-owned businesses, unlocking opportunities that we may not have otherwise encountered.

The NMSDC certification has also strengthened our credibility and underscored our commitment to diversity and inclusion, positioning us as a trusted partner for organizations prioritizing supplier diversity initiatives. This recognition has enabled us to forge meaningful relationships with clients who appreciate the innovation and resilience that minority-owned businesses bring to the table.

Furthermore, the resources and events offered by the NMSDC, such as matchmaking sessions and networking forums, have allowed us to build valuable connections and stay up to date with market trends. These opportunities have not only broadened our business pipeline but also provided us with insights that help us better serve our clients.

What is one thing you wish you had known when you were starting out in your career?

One thing I wish I had known when starting out in my career is the value of viewing challenges as opportunities for growth, rather than seeing them as obstacles. Early in my career, I sometimes viewed setbacks as roadblocks, focusing on immediate solutions instead of stepping back to consider the bigger picture.

Over time, I’ve learned that challenges often offer the best learning experiences. They teach resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving in ways that success alone cannot. If I had embraced this mindset earlier, I would have approached challenges with more confidence and creativity, turning them into stepping stones for both personal and professional growth.

My advice to others is to face challenges with curiosity and a solution-oriented mindset. Often, these are where the greatest opportunities lie.

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For more information on Navitas Partners, please visit: navitassols.com or follow them on LinkedIn.

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Dear MBEs,

As we look ahead to the coming year, the landscape for Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs) is shifting in ways that require both vigilance and proactive adaptation. Recent developments at the federal level have introduced new challenges that we must address head-on.

On January 22, 2025, President Donald Trump’s administration directed all federal employees involved in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs to be placed on paid administrative leave, with plans to eliminate these positions by the end of the month.

This directive mandates the closure of all DEI offices and the termination of related initiatives across federal agencies.

This action is part of a broader effort to dismantle DEI programs within the federal government, which the administration has criticized as discriminatory and wasteful. The executive order also aims to end affirmative action in federal contracting, emphasizing a return to “merit-based” hiring practices.

These federal changes mirror recent trends in the private sector, where several major corporations, including Ford, Walmart, and Lowe’s, have scaled back or eliminated their DEI initiatives. This convergence of public and private sector shifts underscores a significant transformation in the support systems that have aimed to benefit MBEs in recent years.

The message we’ve received is clear: we cannot afford to depend solely on programs or government policies to ensure our success.

At the Council, we understand the frustration and concern these developments may cause. It’s natural to feel uncertain when support systems evolve or diminish. However, it is precisely in these moments that MBEs must rise to the challenge.

The reality is that certification as a Minority Business Enterprise has never guaranteed success. A certification might open doors, but it is the quality of your product or service that keeps those doors open. It is your work ethic, innovation, and ability to deliver exceptional value that will sustain and grow your business in any environment. As we reflect on the lessons of the past and face the realities of the present, this truth has never been more critical.

For the year ahead, I urge MBEs to focus on the following:

• Excellence in Delivery: Ensure your products and services meet and exceed the expectations of your clients. Quality will always be your most reliable advocate.
• Adaptability: Markets evolve, and customer needs change. Stay attuned to these shifts and position your business to address emerging opportunities.
• Building Relationships: Cultivate strong relationships with clients, partners, and stakeholders. Trust and credibility are earned through consistency and results.
• Strategic Investment: Invest in your business—whether it’s through technology, training, or expanding your network. Be prepared to compete and excel in any economic climate.
• Advocacy and Unity: While individual effort is essential, collective action remains powerful. Engage with organizations like the NY & NJ Minority Supplier Development Council to ensure your voice is heard and your interests are represented.

The political and economic landscape may shift, but the principles of good business remain constant. Let’s commit to building enterprises that are not only minority-owned but also universally respected for their excellence and impact. By focusing on what we can control—the quality of our work and the strength of our business practices—we will not only survive but thrive, regardless of external challenges.

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Parag Shroff is an experienced and dynamic corporate leader at 22nd Century Technologies, Inc., bringing extensive expertise in information technology, cybersecurity, personnel and human resources, sales and marketing, financial management, operations, and business development. His broad base of executive management experience stems from roles in both large organizations and start-up companies, showcasing his versatility and strategic vision.

Parag’s core competencies include strategic business planning, profit and loss accountability, corporate finance and budgeting, organizational development, staff and policy development, operations management, and sales and marketing development. His leadership in personnel and human resources further underscores his ability to build and sustain high-performing teams.

At 22nd Century Technologies, Inc., Parag leads the Commercial Practice, driving growth and innovation for the organization.

About  22nd Century Technologies Inc.

For over two decades, 22nd Century Technologies has established itself as a trusted partner, achieving significant milestones in the industry. The company serves a wide range of clients, including several Federal and State agencies, as well as prominent organizations such as Boeing, UPS, Northrop Grumman, NetApp, Spirit AeroSystems, Rentokil, Coca-Cola, Cox Communications, Carrier Corporation, Lockheed Martin, Rockwell Collins, Parker, Ball Aerospace, Raytheon, Iron Mountain, Kimberly-Clark, and many others.

22nd Century Technologies specializes in delivering comprehensive cybersecurity and compliance services, encompassing endpoint, network, and cloud security, 24/7 Security Operations Center (SOC) support, vulnerability assessment and penetration testing (VAPT), and more.

The company also provides a full spectrum of staffing solutions, including contingent workforce management, temporary staffing, permanent placements, payroll services, recruitment process outsourcing (RPO), and vendor-on-premises solutions.

With top-secret facility clearance, SOC 2 compliance, and Nationwide Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) certification through NMSDC, 22nd Century Technologies is positioned as a leader in the industry. Headquartered in McLean, VA, the company operates over 35 offices across the United States, Canada, and India.

How has being certified with the NMSDC helped your business?

When I first started working for a certified diverse supplier, I had the privilege of attending an annual GNEMSDC conference. At the time, I had little understanding of how to engage with the diversity and sourcing professionals I met. It was an enjoyable experience, and everyone was welcoming, but I wasn’t sure how to turn those interactions into meaningful opportunities. Since we operated in the life sciences and healthcare space, the GNEMSDC was a crucial platform for networking and growth.

During a matchmaking session, I met a diversity professional from one of the largest healthcare companies. I gave my usual sales pitch for our staffing business, only to be told there were no opportunities available. They already had the category covered and a long list of suppliers waiting. It was a disappointing moment—I felt as though we’d never win business with such a large company.

Over the next few months, I attended more meetings and gained a clearer understanding of what it takes to succeed at diversity conferences. I realized that consistent engagement and a compelling value proposition were key. It wasn’t just about attending events but demonstrating why a company should work with us and how we could deliver unique value.

In the first year, we achieved a few small wins, which boosted my confidence. I continued to engage with the individual I’d met earlier from that healthcare company and eventually had the opportunity to meet a senior procurement leader at one of the conferences. 

After 2.5 years of consistent follow-ups, relationship-building, and staying engaged, I received an email from their staffing MSP. The procurement team had requested that we be added as a staffing supplier.

Within six months, we had over 200 contractors billing with that company.

This journey taught me the importance of perseverance, building relationships, and delivering value. Being certified with the NMSDC opened doors, but consistent effort and engagement turned those opportunities into lasting success.

What is one thing you wish you had known when you were starting out in your career?

Persistence can get you to the door, but consistency is the key that unlocks it. I wish I had understood how vital this principle is, especially as a diverse supplier. Building meaningful relationships and proving your value over time are what truly create opportunities.

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For more information on 22nd Century Technologies Inc., please visit: tscti.com or follow them on social media: LinkedIn, Facebook and X.

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Today, as we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., we reflect on his unwavering fight for civil rights, equality, and justice. His vision of a society rooted in fairness and inclusion continues to guide us, inspiring us to pursue the American Dream that he so passionately championed. Dr. King’s words, “We must come to see that the end we seek is a society at peace with itself, a society that can live with its conscience,” resonate as deeply today as they did decades ago.

At the Council, we are committed to building a society that aligns with these principles. Dr. King’s vision calls on us to create a world of justice, unity, and fairness—values central to our mission. By fostering relationships rooted in mutual respect, ethical practices, and a spirit of cooperation, we can bring these ideals to life in our work.

In 2025, collaboration among businesses is key. When we come together, share resources, and support each other’s growth, we can all succeed. This unity is the foundation for a more inclusive and prosperous future. By helping one another, we strengthen not only our businesses but also the broader community.

Our work centers on breaking down barriers, creating opportunities for certified suppliers, driving economic equity, and building sustainable supply chains. This year, our theme—“Decreasing Systematic Business Growth Barriers: Increasing Sustainable Supply Chains”—focuses on the critical role of systemic change in achieving these goals.

As we reflect on Dr. King’s legacy, let us commit to advocacy and action. True change requires more than words; it demands that we use our influence to challenge inequities and support the advancement of underrepresented communities. The Council remains steadfast in empowering certified suppliers and advancing economic justice, but this mission relies on the collective effort of our community.

We are grateful for the progress we’ve made together in promoting diversity in business. Each step forward is a testament to the dedication of our partners and advocates who share our vision. Yet, there is still much work to do.

Let this day of remembrance be a reminder of the responsibility we have—to lead with integrity, to collaborate for mutual success, and to ensure we are building a society truly at peace with itself.