The history of the United States is inseparable from Black history. The legacy of people who survived enslavement, fought for freedom, and built communities under systems of exclusion reveals a depth of resilience that continues to shape the nation today.
Black history is a story of endurance and leadership, resistance, and collective care. The labor, inventions, discoveries, and cultural contributions of Black Americans were repeatedly stolen, erased, or credited to others, generating wealth and progress from which Black communities were excluded. Consider Elijah McCoy, the Black inventor whose lubricator for steam engines was so valued that he became “The Real McCoy” (vs. the imitators). Even as the racist policies and resilience are present and active today, Black communities and leaders, born of struggle, are strong.
At LEAF, Black History Month is a chance to honor our past. LEAF is staffed by people of color and our work is rooted in supporting communities that have historically been denied access to capital and opportunity.
LEAF is taking action by:
- Providing funding to cooperatives and businesses in communities of color.
- Offering technical assistance to entrepreneurs of color.
- Supporting shared ownership and community wealth models that build long-term economic power.
Black History Month was founded by Carter G. Woodson, who wrote, “Those who have no record of what their forebears have accomplished lose the inspiration which comes from the teaching of biography and history.” LEAF remains committed to advancing the true narrative of our U.S. history and to supporting communities that build our collective freedom and self-determination.
Follow us to see stories of Black borrowers this month and throughout the year.