JeffreyM Employee Highlight -LaToya Benson

As we continue to celebrate Black History Month, we had the pleasure to sit down with one of our employees and staff member, LaToya Benson, Director of Success, Diversity and Inclusion at JeffreyM, to hear about what Black History Month means to her.

What does Black History month mean to you?
For me, Black History Month is a time to celebrate, reflect and share just how proud I am of my heritage!

Are there any specific events or traditions that are important to you during this time or throughout the year?
Yes, every year I have a few traditions I like to keep going once February 1^st rolls around. I consider myself a lifelong learner so always seeking to learn more about my own history. This year, I will be watching the 1619 Project on Hulu. Having listened to the NYT podcast back in 2019 and reading the 1619 Project book last year, I’m excited to view the documentary. I also visit the museums and attend at least one black history event or celebration. This year I’ll be checking out the latest exhibits at the African American Museum in Dallas and attending a few plays and musicals hosted by local black owned theatre companies. Closing the racial wealth gap and playing my part in the economic advancement of African Americans is very close to my heart, so I always find a new black owned business or organization to support. This year, I’ll be checking out a few black owned restaurants in my area, donating to the NAACP and volunteering with a local organization that benefits children experiencing food insecurity.

How can the community celebrate and bring awareness to Black History Month beyond just this month?
I think it’s so important to celebrate Black History Month 24/7 and 365 days of the year and its various ways that people can do that. Educating yourself on Black History as well as current events is so important. Whether it’s reading a book like the 1619 project, watching a documentary or regularly visiting African American museums and exhibits. Watching Black centered media channels like Fox Soul, TV One, BET and Revolt TV also allow you to keep up with current trends and issues centered on the Black community. Getting involved in organizations, rather it’s church, social, volunteer, or professional focused where black people are part of that community lends itself to being more connected. You would be surprised how you can learn and grow your perspective by simply developing friendships with people who don’t share your same background! You can also make supporting black owned businesses and non-profits part of your everyday life. Find a black owned restaurant in your area, switch over some of your skin care or beauty products to black owned brands or volunteer your time and resources to Black centered non-profits.

Here are a few of my favorites (all from Black Women) you can support no matter where you live:

• Pattern Beauty is my new favorite for haircare and was created by Tracee Ellis Ross.
• Posh Candle is my go-to for candles and with their trendy statements they make great gifts!
• Body Complete RX is a vital part of my wellness routine. The protein powder, multivitamins and other wellness products can be purchased online or in-person at Vitamin Shoppe.
• My beauty bag is full of lipsticks, eyeshadows, blushes and more from Fenty Beauty, The Lip Bar and Juvias Place.
• Whether I’m heading to the gym or ensuring I’m cute and comfortable while working remotely , Melt Fit and Fancy Homebody have become staple pieces for my wardrobe.