ADA Music’s Post

When Legendary Talent Isn’t Enough The Jackie Robinson story is legendary. Sizzling talent, Mr. Robinson dared to cross the "color line" for the very first time in Major League Baseball when the U.S. was segregated in 1947. “Jackie Robinson won the inaugural Rookie of the Year award for his trailblazing 1947 season. Robinson batted .297, scored 125 runs, hit 12 home runs, 31 doubles and led the league with 29 Stolen bases, taking the Brooklyn Dodgers to a World Series against the New York Yankees.” (JackieRobinsonMuseum.org) What I find interesting however is that Mr. Robinson’s dazzling talent was not enough. It was not enough for him to take the field.  It was not enough for him to outplay his peers.  It was not enough for him to be the “only one.”   It was necessary but it was not enough. A white male leader in power had to hire him. A white male leader had to be powerful and courageous enough to open the gates and face down withering backlash. We can debate whether the decision to hire Mr. Robinson was based purely on profits or morals. However, this white male leader had the power to open the gates, and wield the courage to do so. To face down the backlash from players who’d rather quit than compete on the field with a black man. Legendary diverse talent was not enough. Barriers had to be taken down as well by a white male leader in power. For white male leaders in corporate leadership, how many Jackie Robinson’s are overlooked right now?  Will you take down the barriers from within? Will you have the courage to prevail against the backlash? #maleallies #diversity #diverseleadership #dei #seniorleadership #diverseteams

Football shattered expectations at the inaugural AAPI LEAD summit. I was struck by a powerful revelation by Sandra Douglass Morgan, president of the Las Vegas Raiders. I knew of her groundbreaking role as the first black woman National Football League (NFL) president. What I didn’t know at our national #AANHPI gathering of elected officials and business leaders is her biracial, bicultural identity as Korean and Black. It was a reminder of having to shift the narrative when we discuss trailblazers. Too often, we simplify narratives to focus on a single "first" - the first woman, the first Black person, or the first Asian American. But these labels can inadvertently erase the rich complexity of individuals' identities and lived experiences, which require a moniker of “multi” not just the “first.” During Morgan’s keynote luncheon address, I admittedly sensed more pride knowing her AANHPI background and moreover, her Korean heritage like mine. And she like many who are half black, half Asian AND women leaders like Vice President Kamala Harris and Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland empowers a more accurate picture of diverse voices and experiences helping to lead more authentically in every facet of our society. Embracing intersectionality in leadership reflects our global reality. ____________ Any other bi-racial, bi-cultural trailblazers in politics, business, or elsewhere we should follow? Drop it in the comments.👇 #publicaffairs #healthcare #ShastAdvisory

Honoring Black History Month 🖤Inspired by JAY Z's powerful Grammy acceptance speech, I'm reminded of the resilience within our community. From unequal opportunities to systemic biases, underrepresented individuals face challenges across industries—getting overlooked for promotions and roles, not receiving accolades, even with stolen ideas that they then pass as their own. Jay's words echo the importance of showing up and staying encouraged, even when their actions and words try to tell you that you're not worthy. Keep showing up until they get it right! We love you. We just want you to get it right. It wasn't until witnessing his speech that I found the words I wanted to share this Black History Month. To my fellow trailblazers, keep pushing, keep striving – whether it's navigating unequal access, combatting stereotypes, or overcoming the hurdles of being overlooked. Your voice matters, your dreams are valid. Let Jay's success be a testament to the strength that lies within us. In every endeavor, from music to business, we navigate uncharted territories. So, to my community, stay up, stay resilient, and keep breaking barriers. Your journey is part of the rich tapestry of Black history, of American history, of world history, and your success is a beacon of hope for the generations to come. 🌟 (the opinions expressed within the content are solely the author’s and do not reflect the opinions and beliefs of any organization that I may be associated with) #BlackHistoryMonth #StayEncouraged #RepresentationMatters #Inspiration #InSolidarity https://lnkd.in/eQRE7eMD

Celebrating Black History 365! #BH365 I am proud to represent the Negro Leagues Family Alliance Great article by Cesar Brioso, Sports Producer at USA TODAY In February for Black History Month, USA TODAY Sports is publishing the series "29 Black Stories in 29 Days." We examine the issues, challenges, and opportunities Black athletes and sports officials continue to face after the nation’s reckoning on race following the murder of George Floyd in 2020. This is the fourth installment of the series. Zachary Mueller, Ed Schauder, Noah R. Kastroll

🌟 Five years ago, a serendipitous match at Whitehawk brought two exceptional Black officials, Joel Mannix and Aji Ajibola, together. ⚽️🤝 Not only did this game foster a deep friendship, but it also sparked a journey towards a higher purpose. A mission that will continue, influencing lives and shaping futures, long after their time as officials. 🚀 This purpose is not just about changing rules; it's about changing mindsets and creating new possibilities. 💡 It has galvanised many, including myself, to drive change and work towards a more inclusive future. 🌍💪 Each time we see increased representation, it's likely that the efforts of Aji and Joel are woven into that progress. 📈 Their dedication and hard work are helping the fabric of the communities see themselves reflected in roles they may not have previously considered. 🌐 The power of representation is immense - it inspires, motivates, and opens doors to new beginnings. 🚪🌟 Every success story reported, every barrier broken, is not just an individual achievement; it's a beacon of hope that lights the way for others. 💫 I am excited to watch Aji's journey and look forward to the day he officiates in the premier league. 🏆🎯 Here's to a future where everyone has the best seat in the stadium. 🏟️🥂 Aji Ajibola Joel Mannix Arran Williams The Football Association EFL (English Football League) The Premier League Kent FA Raj Randhawa Minesh Gupta Farai Hallam Jeff Davis Kevin Yusuf Coleman Lauren Emmerson, LMSW Lorraine Humm Martin Cassidy Tom Amber Tom Webb #ChangeMakers #RepresentationMatters #HigherPurpose #InclusionInSports https://lnkd.in/eBbgTZ9T

This luncheon was special. Quick recap below

✊🏾 Breaking barriers and reshaping the game: It's time for diversity and inclusion in the decision-making seats of black sports. Let's champion change together. 🏁 Click the link to join our network - https://buff.ly/4asB0cb #GameChanger #RepresentationMatters #BlackLeadersInSport #SportsLeadership #EmpowerChange

🇺🇸 In honor of Presidents Day, here’s a trivia question for you! 🎩 Who was the first president to live in the White House? 🏛️ Leave your answers in the comments below. I dare you not to search it!🔎 #PresidentsDay #TriviaTime

In honor of Presidents Day, here’s a trivia question for you. Who was the first president to live in the White House? Leave your answers in the comments. We dare you not to search it. If you have any questions about the current market, reach out to us with any questions. You can reach us at 317-883-9461 or [email protected]. #PresidentsDay #coldwellbankerstiles #cbstiles

This week on Madam Policy Podcast, our own Natalie Bara & Jennifer Morrow talked with Dee Martin & Kendall Mitchell about the important work that we do and our upcoming 10th annual GMan Honors Gala. Learn more below!