This Black History Month, we celebrate and reflect on the history of Black labor and labor movements in the U.S. Throughout time and across sectors, the contributions of Black workers, leaders, and educators have been monumental.
As of April 2024, Black staff members make up 8.7% of the total 9,285 employees on the UC Berkeley campus. Underrepresented groups, including Black, Hispanic, and American Indian/Alaska Natives, comprise 15% of faculty positions on campus. Groups such as the Black Staff & Faculty Organization, initiatives like the Becoming an Anti-Racist Campus, and departments such as Equity & Inclusion aim to create a safe and equitable workplace for staff and faculty.
However, we know that BIPOC employees are more likely to experience discrimination, imposter syndrome, and burnout in the workplace than their White counterparts. These experiences can have a significant impact on physical stress, mental health, and overall wellness. As systemic progress occurs, along with setbacks, Employee Assistance reminds the Berkeley community that supportive resources exist for Black and BIPOC staff and faculty. Allies can also access resources to continue learning how to contribute to a healthier, more equitable, and inclusive workplace.
Campus Support and Events for the Black and BIPOC Community
- Employee Assistance facilitates a virtual BIPOC support group every 2nd Tuesday of the month from 12-12:50. This group is an opportunity to meet BIPOC staff, faculty and postdocs from across campus, and to share your unique story and experiences. Topics are selected by group members at the start of each session. Please email kpatchell@berkeley.edu for registration, Zoom link, and bCal notifications.
- This is a great time to connect (or reconnect) with the Black Staff and Faculty Organization (BSFO) as they offer a wide range of events throughout February. On-campus offerings include a luncheon and gathering at the Campanile for a Black National Anthem performance. Off-campus offerings include a game night, a symphony performance, and samba lessons. See the full list of events here.
Community Support and Events for the Black and BIPOC Community
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The Black Joy Parade is back for the 8th consecutive year! This year, the event falls on Feb. 23rd starting at 12:30pm. The Black Joy Parade is fun for all ages, and showcases Black-owned businesses, entertainment, and artistry.
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Pacific Center for Human Growth hosts a variety of peer and therapy groups focusing on the intersection between racial/ethnic identity and LGBTQ+ identities. Offerings are frequently expanded, can be viewed on their calendar.
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Oakland LGBTQ Center also offers support groups for the BIPOC community, including a dedicated recovery space for BIPOC folks. Their calendar is regularly updated.
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East Bay Meditation Center hosts practice groups focused on mindful movement and meditation. This includes dedicated spaces for a people of color yoga class, and a POC sangha. Offerings are frequently expanded, and can be viewed on their calendar.
Mental Health Resources
Employee Assistance can answer questions about your mental health benefits and coverage through UC, and help you locate a referral. You can schedule an appointment via phone, email, or in person.
Additional resources for locating therapists, especially therapists of color, are below:
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The Museum of the African Diaspora is a non-profit organization located in SF and is committed to celebrating Black culture. In addition to contemporary art, they offer educational courses for all ages.
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East Bay Meditation Center’s Racial Justice Skills for White Practitioners group is open, and meets monthly online. This group is for all regular meditation practitioners who self-identify as White and who are committed to racial justice.
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Learning and training opportunities are frequently available at Cal, hosted by a variety of campus partners.