John Martin

Black men, the power to reshape how we are perceived and categorized lies in our hands. We must take deliberate action to craft narratives that reflect our strength, resilience, and excellence. This means embracing our unique talents, building generational legacies, and uplifting one another without reservation. By doing so, we redefine our identities and reject limiting stereotypes imposed by others. By the way, being unapologetic about our journey means standing firm in our purpose and pursuing our goals with unwavering determination. It’s about creating spaces where our voices are heard, our contributions are acknowledged, and our communities thrive. We cannot wait for change to be handed to us — we must lead the charge, united by a shared vision of progress, empowerment, and lasting impact. ______________ Visit my website: https://richardacross.com Check out my books and journals + more! ______________ POSITIVELY SHAPING THE FUTURE™ #1millionblackmalestudents #LifePurpose #PositiveInfluence #HBCUsMatter #LeadingWithIntegrity #TheBlackMaleImpact #Blackexcellence #ChallengeCharacterAssasination #BlackMenCollaboration #BlackMen #Impact #leadingchange #CulturalTransformation #HigherEducation #MillionaireMindset #BlackBoys #changethenarrative #EmotionalIntelligence #PositiveImpact #Book2024 #DrRichardACross #PositiveInfluence #OwnYourGreatness #TrustBuilding #ChallengeTheNarrative #GrowthMindset #dismantlingstereotypes

7

1 Comment

#BlackTechSaturdays #keepgoing #togetherwecan #strongertogether #bridgethedivide #closethegap #blackintech #womenintech #latinxintech #diversityintech #Detroittech #blackexcellence #blackjoy #blacklove Black Tech Saturdays "LEVEL UP" 🚀🚀🚀🚀🚀🚀 Aaron Dawson 🎥

33

Challenges of Black-owned Businesses Entrepreneurship was one of the vital tools used by our ancestors to stabilize and empower the Black community in the post-Juneteenth era. Black business owners now leverage technology to build strong physical and digital businesses that create jobs and contribute billions of dollars annually to America's GDP. An estimated 140,918 Black-owned companies with employees in the country earn $141.1 billion in annual receipts and employ 1.3 million workers (U.S. Census Bureau). However, Black-owned businesses face unique challenges that tend to limit their growth. Top on the list is systemic racism, which increases the barrier to entry of Black-owned businesses in specific sectors of the economy. Thereby reducing the number of Black-owned businesses in the country compared to their white counterparts. Blacks comprise 14.2% of the U.S. population but only own 2.3% of all employer firms (Brookings). This results in lower household incomes for the Black community, which further widens the wealth gap in society. The median net worth of white families was $188,200—7.8 times that of their Black peers, at $24,100 ( The Federal Reserve). Black-owned businesses also face stereotypes and biases in the marketplace when interacting with customers who doubt their expertise or products because of their color. 79% of Black business owners say they’ve experienced racism from a customer—with 48% reporting they had at least one racist customer interaction in the past year ( Intuit QuickBooks). Another major challenge is that they experience difficulty in gaining access to funding and capital, unlike their white counterparts. A survey of Black small business owners revealed that 37% had difficulty accessing new capital and financing—14 percentage points higher than their non-Black peers (Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Voices). We must start supporting Black-owned businesses to advance our economy. We advance our economy by fostering economic equity, job creation, community development, social justice, cultural preservation, innovation, and diversity. Here are four ways to support Black-owned businesses, according to citizensbank.com 1. Shop at Black-owned businesses The most obvious way to support Black-owned businesses is to become a customer. You can find online and local companies that fit the bill. 2. Promote Black-owned businesses Word of mouth is an excellent way to find businesses and show your support. 3. Invest in Black-owned businesses investing in them is another way to help Black entrepreneurs get started and succeed. 4. Include Black-owned businesses in community events Be sure to invite Black business owners not just as attendees but also as speakers whenever possible. #economicempowerment #blackempowerment #generationalwealth #equality #companyculture #employeeengagement #leadership #humanresources #employeewellness #workculture #hr #workplacewellbeing

4

Journey through time and culture with our Introduction to Black Studies Course starting in January 2025. Explore the African History, the African diaspora, movements + more. Knowledge is power, and this is your opportunity to empower yourself. Enroll now! https://lnkd.in/gichjUS3 #blackhistory #blackstudies #blackhistorymatters #africanhistory #africanhistorymatters #blackhistoryyoudidntlearninschool #worldhistory #selfeducation

112

10 Comments

Black men, the journeys we undertake in life often carry lessons that empower us to grow and equip us with the tools necessary for a greater purpose. These experiences are not merely for personal accolades or rewards but to prepare us to contribute to the collective advancement of our community. Every challenge we face sharpens our resilience, deepens our understanding, and strengthens our ability to create meaningful change. Our struggles are often a blueprint, not just for our own success but for guiding others along a similar path. Let’s keep in mind that this work requires a mindset rooted in service and legacy. When we use our experiences to uplift others, we transform individual victories into communal progress. It’s not about recognition; it’s about responsibility. By focusing on the collective, we ensure that the doors we open remain accessible to those who follow us. This collective advancement builds a foundation for generations to come, fostering empowerment, opportunity, and equity. Let us embrace this purpose with humility and determination, knowing that the work we do today shapes the future of our community. ______________ Visit my website: https://richardacross.com Check out my books and journals + more! ______________ POSITIVELY SHAPING THE FUTURE™ #1millionblackmalestudents #LifePurpose #mentoring #HBCUsMatter #LeadingWithIntegrity #TheBlackMaleImpact #Blackexcellence #ChallengeCharacterAssasination #BlackMenCollaboration #BlackMen #Impact #leadingchange #CulturalTransformation #HigherEducation #MillionaireMindset #BlackBoys #changethenarrative #EmotionalIntelligence #PositiveImpact #Book2024 #DrRichardACross #PositiveInfluence #OwnYourGreatness #InnerStrength #TrustBuilding #ChallengeTheNarrative #UniteForChange #dismantlingstereotypes

8

2 Comments

The Impact of Joe Biden's Policies on Black Americans: Eradicating Generational Poverty Discover how Joe Biden's focused efforts on lifting African-Americans and historically marginalized individuals above the poverty line are changing lives. Learn about the intentional actions and policies that are making a difference in combating generational poverty. #BidenPolicies #GenerationalPoverty #BlackAmericansProgress #SocialJustice #EconomicEquality #HistoricallyMarginalized #FightingPoverty #PolicyImpact #EqualityMatters #JusticeReform

6

1 Comment

Black men, we are the pieces to our solutions, and this realization empowers us to take ownership of our destiny and actively engage in addressing the challenges we face because it's up to us our pieces can be part of the collective. Our unique experiences, perspectives, and talents are invaluable assets in the collective effort to create positive change. Each of us holds a piece of the puzzle, and it's crucial that we recognize the significance of our contributions. Whether through mentorship, community leadership, or simply being a role model in our daily lives, every action we take can help solve the problems we encounter. By embracing our roles as problem-solvers, we not only uplift ourselves but also inspire others to join in the effort, creating a ripple effect of progress and empowerment. Moreover, it’s essential to continually seek out and collaborate with others who share our vision and commitment to progress. Building a network of like-minded individuals amplifies our impact and enables us to tackle issues from multiple angles. Collaboration fosters innovation and strengthens our community bonds, making us more resilient and resourceful. As we connect our pieces to the larger picture, we find strength in unity and diversity, leveraging each other's strengths to overcome obstacles. Remember, our collective power lies in our willingness to work together and support one another. By being proactive and inclusive, we can create a future where our contributions are recognized and valued, and our communities thrive. Let's commit to being active participants in this journey, knowing that together, we can solve the challenges before us and pave the way for a brighter future. ______________ Visit my website: https://richardacross.com Check out my books and journals + more! ______________ POSITIVELY SHAPING THE FUTURE™ #1millionblackmalestudents #collaboration #unity #anthology #mentoring #HBCUsMatter #LeadingWithIntegrity #TheBlackMaleImpact #Blackexcellence #ChallengeCharacterAssasination #BlackMenCollaboration #BlackMen #Impact #leadingchange #CulturalTransformation #HigherEducation #MillionaireMindset #BlackBoys #changethenarrative #EmotionalIntelligence #PositiveImpact #Book2024 #DrRichardACross #PositiveInfluence #BestVersionOfYourself

2

2 Comments

Happy Black Business Month! Here are 31 ways you can celebrate and uplift Black-owned businesses throughout the month and beyond. 1. Make warm introductions for Black business owners to others within your network. 2. Intentionally invite Black entrepreneurs as guests to events you organize or attend. 3. Seek out and support Black-owned businesses in your community and become a loyal customer. 4. Boost visibility by sharing your favorite Black-owned businesses on social media. 5. Leave glowing online reviews about a positive experience with a Black-owned business. 6. Connect with Black business owners for potential partnerships and joint ventures. 7. Participate in local events hosted by Black entrepreneurs. 8. Support upcoming Black-owned startups through crowdfunding campaigns. 9. Empower Black entrepreneurs through mentorship and guidance. 10. Purchase merchandise from Black e-commerce businesses. 11. Invest in Black-owned businesses or contribute to community funds if possible. 12. Share knowledge and expertise by hosting entrepreneurship workshops for Black business owners. 13. Inspire others by sharing success stories of Black business owners. 14. Delight your taste buds at Black-owned eateries and restaurants. 15. Donate to Black-led nonprofits that support Black entrepreneurs and communities. 16. Educate friends and family about the significance of supporting Black businesses. 17. Purchase and decorate your space with art from talented Black artists. 18. Amplify and support Black-owned tech startups by using and recommending their technology. 19. Explore and read books written by Black authors. 20. Interact with and amplify content from Black-owned businesses on social media. 21. Use Black event planners and vendors for upcoming events. 22. Share links to online marketplaces showcasing multiple Black-owned businesses. 23. Host a book club meeting centered on literature by Black authors. 24. Push for government policies that foster Black business growth and development. 25. Express gratitude through thank-you notes to Black business owners. 26. Become a sponsor for events or initiatives by Black-owned businesses. 27. Engage in webinars and seminars hosted by Black entrepreneurs. 28. Volunteer your professional services to assist Black entrepreneurs in various areas. 29. Subscribe to and promote subscription boxes featuring products from Black-owned businesses. 30. Purchase fresh produce and food products from Black-owned farms and food producers. 31. Advocate for companies to implement supplier diversity programs that include and support Black-owned businesses in their procurement processes. Make sure to share this list with your network! I’m here to answer any questions on how to take action to support Black owned businesses.

33

3 Comments

The numbers tell the story

1

Black men, it’s essential that we aim higher than merely securing a single seat at the table. Representation is crucial, but true progress means seeing multiple voices of our community in these spaces, sharing diverse perspectives, and collectively impacting decisions. When only one of us is present, the full spectrum of our stories, talents, and insights is often lost. That’s why we can’t let “just one” be enough. Our goal should be creating environments where the presence of Black men is natural, frequent, and valued for the richness it brings. This requires us to see beyond individual success and to set a standard that invites others into spaces where historically we have been underrepresented. Besides, achieving this means we must be ready to challenge the status quo in meaningful ways. It means standing firm on values like integrity, respect, and unity, even when it feels uncomfortable or when it could risk our own position. We lead by example not only by excelling but by making it easier for others to enter these spaces, too. By fostering collaboration over competition, showing courage over conformity, we signal to the next generation that they, too, belong in the room—not as a token, but as changemakers. The more we uphold these values and bring others along, the closer we get to breaking down barriers and transforming spaces into true reflections of the communities they serve. Let us aim to inspire others by our actions, creating a legacy of inclusivity, strength, and true representation. ______________ Visit my website: https://richardacross.com Check out my books and journals + more! ______________ POSITIVELY SHAPING THE FUTURE™ #1millionblackmalestudents #LifePurpose #mentoring #HBCUsMatter #LeadingWithIntegrity #TheBlackMaleImpact #Blackexcellence #ChallengeCharacterAssasination #BlackMenCollaboration #BlackMen #Impact #leadingchange #CulturalTransformation #HigherEducation #MillionaireMindset #BlackBoys #changethenarrative #EmotionalIntelligence #PositiveImpact #Book2024 #DrRichardACross #PositiveInfluence #OwnYourGreatness #InnerStrength #TrustBuilding #ChallengeTheNarrative #UniteForChange #dismantlingstereotypes

4

🙌🏼 Black Business Month 🙌🏼 may mean something to you that actually falls short of the opportunity (FOR YOU). If you don't know me any better than what I am about to say then hold on . . . Before you dismiss me as a "Jesus Nut" (a label that would cause people who know me to spit-take) just hear me out on this one . . . Few, if any, historical figures have meant more to me. It's not because of any - social control mechanisms propagated by a "Church", or - state collusions (especially in the USA) to oppress the many for the few. It's the teachings themselves inspire me to aspire, believe, actualize, & live to transcend limitations, ironically, a freedom that yokes me to follow those teachings even when I resist. One of the burdens I apparently came into this life with is the ability to see how glorious this life can be, but that also means daily disappointment, dismay, disillusionment. I've even known despair. It was so severe by the time I was 18 yrs old in a psychiatric unit I lost hope I could make it. Between that chasm and a genetic predisposition, lies my addiction to "spirits" - another name for alcohol. The latin root of spirits is telling since drinking (to take / breathe in) spirits purports to inspire, but eventually, as a trickster substitute, ensnares a soul into despair. This is the kind of broken-openess that, until you know it, you can't really know what redemption is: rescued, restored, pulled back from the brink and put on a path where a glorious vision and the discipline to make it so integrate. This is actually what INTEGRITY means. If you are confused that integrity simply means ethical compliance, you miss one of the most powerful lessons I continue to learn in my life. Alignment between a glorious vision and what Paramahansa Yogananda taught - Christ Consciousness - is not about ethical compliance, it is an alignment to actualize power. Talk & Walk integrate. For a masterclass in that alignment, look no further than Seneca Dunmore, MIS, Doctoral Candidate. The video I'm reposting here shows you why I keep coming back to lift her up, lift up her work, lift up her glorious vision and her discipline to make it so. Her broken-openness in this video invokes an alignment of your vision with an enormous capacity to make it so. It's so much bigger than what you likely thought when I say support Black Business Month . . . But at least start there. In addition to Seneca Dunmore and her Dunmore Capital Ventures, LLC here are just a few of the Black Businesses that foster my integrity. I am blessed to amplify: Khafre Jay Ernest Crim III, MA Center for the Study of White American Culture (Charley Flint Edie Grauer) Ashani Mfuko (She/Her) Three-Fifths Magazine Kevin Robinson NAL Speaker's Bureau DanteKing dot com. #12swa #recovery #gratitude #Blackexcellence #BlackBusiness #highereducation

7

8 Comments

#BlackBoneProject Last panel of the day. Thanks to Ronnette Meyers Shannan Herbert Kristina Sicard , CSBC for expanding how we as Black women entrepreneurs should think about money, where to find it, how to leverage it, free resources in our community to take advantage of and a reminder to be a continuous learner. #legacybusinesses #generationalwealth

11

1 Comment

Black men, despite the challenges and restrictions historically placed upon us, it's vital to take the lead in shaping our futures and the futures of those around us. Leadership offers us the power to transcend the social construct limitations and redefine our narratives. By stepping into leadership roles, we not only challenge the stereotypes and misconceptions that have been imposed on us but also inspire others to envision and strive for a better future. Leading allows us to create spaces where we can thrive, advocate for our communities, and empower the next generation to break free from the systemic barriers that will only continue to prevent the valuable contribution possible for collective progress and growth. Besides, taking the lead means embracing our strengths, experiences, and unique perspectives, and using them to influence positive change. As Black men, we possess a wealth of knowledge and resilience gained from navigating these challenges, which can be leveraged to inspire others and drive meaningful progress. By the way, leadership isn't just about personal success; it's about lifting others as we climb, building a legacy of empowerment and resilience. By taking the lead, we model for younger generations the importance of self-belief, perseverance, and the courage to defy limitations. We show them that despite the obstacles we face, we have the agency and ability to make a profound impact in our communities and the world. ______________ Visit my website: https://richardacross.com Check out my books and journals + more! ______________ POSITIVELY SHAPING THE FUTURE™ #1millionblackmalestudents #motivation #inspiration #education #mentoring #HBCUsMatter #LeadingWithIntegrity #TheBlackMaleImpact #Blackexcellence #ChallengeCharacterAssasination #PersonalDevelopment #Mindset #Psychology #leadingchange #CulturalTransformation #Knowledge #MillionaireMindset #BlackBoys #changethenarrative #EmotionalIntelligence #PositiveImpact #Book2024 #DrRichardACross #PositiveInfluence #BestVersionOfYourself

4

Ready to take control of your finances? 🌟 Discover practical tips for financial resilience and growth. 💸💪 Join our community of Black women for support and empowerment. #FinancialEmpowerment #BlackWomenEmpowerment

33

#BlackExitStrategy #BlackNationBuilders #BlackBelize When the left and the rights infighting gets to much you will understand your assignment is not to do nothing. Understand that we are planning, we are preparing another place where these problems don't exist. #BlackBelize #MicroNation It's time to get focused, considerate, and determined. 1) Focus on what you need to do to acquire the life you want. 2) Be considerate to the things you no longer wish to tolerate. 3) Be so determined that at any and all cost you will do what it takes to get to the promise land. #BlackBelize #TheNewBelize #BlackMecca #PromiseLand

3

As the CEO of Black Sisters in STEM it is an honor to share that Black Sisters in STEM is officially partnering with the a16z Cultural Leadership Fund for 2024! This is a partnership that redefines possibilities for Black women in STEM. For years, we've been on a mission to create opportunities and break down barriers for African American talent in tech. Now, with this partnership, we're elevating our impact. From groundbreaking innovations in gaming and generative Al to opening doors for high-impact, equity-earning roles, this collaboration is all about transforming the future. Here's what this really means: when we come together, 𝐰𝐞 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐱𝐭𝐫𝐚 𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐲. The opportunity to empower Black talent, reshape narratives, and create a more equitable tech landscape is here and it's bigger than any one of us. The future is calling, and it's ours to shape. Let's make a real impact together! #BlackSistersInSTEM #a16z #Cultural Leadership Fund #TechEquity #Empowerment #NoLimits

54

5 Comments

📍Success has often been defined for Black men by external forces that limit our vision and potential. But true success for us goes beyond personal gains—it involves dismantling generational strongholds, breaking free of stereotypes, and building a legacy grounded in dignity. When we expand our goals to include these transformative elements, we’re not only redefining what success looks like for ourselves, but also creating a foundation for future generations to thrive. With creativity, intuition, and innovative thinking, we have the power to reshape narratives, not just for today but for generations to come. ______________ Visit my website: https://richardacross.com Check out my books and journals + more! ______________ POSITIVELY SHAPING THE FUTURE™ #1millionblackmalestudents #LifePurpose #mentoring #HBCUsMatter #LeadingWithIntegrity #TheBlackMaleImpact #Blackexcellence #ChallengeCharacterAssasination #BlackMenCollaboration #BlackMen #Impact #leadingchange #CulturalTransformation #HigherEducation #MillionaireMindset #BlackBoys #changethenarrative #EmotionalIntelligence #PositiveImpact #Book2024 #DrRichardACross #PositiveInfluence #OwnYourGreatness #InnerStrength #TrustBuilding #ChallengeTheNarrative #UniteForChange #DismantlingStereotypes

3

Before my vacation, I enjoyed sitting with Dr. Asia Lyons for her incredible podcast The Exit Interview: A Podcast for Black Educators. Make sure you catch the episode. We chat about my journey from a sports management major to education, my experiences teaching in the Mississippi Delta, Black educators' challenges, and the importance of historical context and systemic educational changes. I share insights into improving teacher retention, the impact of integration policies, and the critical role of parent and student voices in schools. Let me know what you think! https://lnkd.in/g_awhmVi

20

4 Comments