Celebrated on January 17, 2023

The Office of Secretary, the Office of Economic Impact and Diversity, and Blacks in Government at Energy hosted a celebration to honor Dr.  Martin Luther King and reflect on what Dr. King’s calls for equality and justice for Black Americans mean today in society. This year’s special observance theme was “It Starts with Me: Creating a Beloved Community,” honoring Dr. King’s message that individuals should commit to actions that recognize the intrinsic worth of all people. The program featured welcoming remarks from Shalanda Baker, Director of the Office of Economic Impact and Diversity and Secretarial Advisor on Equity, on how Dr. King’s fight for civil rights laid the foundation for environmental justice and for DOE to carry out its work in advancing equity and inclusion and to execute the President’s executive orders affecting Americans of color. Secretary Jennifer Granholm provided remarks on Dr. King’s legacy in environmental justice work, stating, “What responsibility we have as we reflect upon Dr. King and his impact, to be able to use these powerful tools and this powerful intention in a way where we—with our thousand acts—can really have an impact.” Keynote speaker, U.S Congressman Marc A. Veasey of Texas’ 33rd District, gave insight to how the lack of access to energy sector opportunities has a lasting effect on disadvantaged communities. Remarks were also Blacks in Government Region XI President, Stephan Matthews, Associate Executive Secretary, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and Blacks in Government at Energy President, Tara Fuller, Lead Audit Specialist, Office of Financial Policy, and Audit Resolution. The program closed with remarks provided by Patricia Zarate, Deputy Director, Office of Civil Rights and Equal Employment Opportunity and an inspirational vocal performance by Patrice Carthern, Office of Economic Impact and Diversity.