As Special Olympics celebrates Black History Month, we’re spotlighting some of our employees to learn more about their journeys with Special Olympics and share insights about what the month means to them.
Charita Boseman has been part of the Special Olympics movement since 2015, starting with Special Olympics International, and joining Special Olympics North America in 2022, where she serves as Senior Manager of Health. For the past ten years she has been part of USA Games Seattle 2018, the 50e anniversary of the Special Olympics on the Chicago 2018 World CupCanada National Winter Games Calgary 2024, and three Special Olympics World Games: Los Angeles 2015, Austria 2017And Abu Dhabi 2019.
How long have you been participating in the Special Olympics?
It’s hard to believe that this June will be eleven years since I joined the Special Olympics movement. After earning my master’s degree in health promotion and sports science, I was completing a CDC grant while working at a national public health nonprofit in Washington, DC, when I was offered an opportunity with Special Olympics’ Global Health team. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that health is such an important and integral part of the movement, which ultimately led me to sign up and join.
Have you seen any ways that Black history has been celebrated over the years?
Yes! As an organization, we have been intentional about recognizing and elevating Black leaders and athletes within our community. We also bring a global perspective to these celebrations by engaging colleagues from across the Black diaspora, which helps highlight the diversity of Black experiences. In addition, we hosted Black sports professionals who shared their personal journeys and insights from the sports industry, creating opportunities for learning, reflection and connection.
How do you think institutions and individuals actively promote racial equality, beyond performative gestures?
Institutions can go beyond performative gestures by committing to fair hiring and retention practices, educating staff about implicit biases, and ensuring opportunities are fair and accessible to all. Organizations must regularly assess who they are serving and who they are not, to understand inclusion gaps and take meaningful steps to address them. On an individual level, people in the workplace can advance racial equity by advocating for others, showing empathy toward marginalized voices, and actively reflecting on and challenging the biases that may emerge in everyday professional environments.
Which black historical figure inspires you and why?
I would say Angela Davis, a living black historical figure. She previously served on the board of an organization where I once worked, and I had the opportunity to meet her, which made her impact feel especially personal. Angela Davis consistently challenges people to imagine alternatives to unjust systems, especially in the areas of racial justice and gender equality. She embodies integrity and empathy and remains steadfast in her beliefs, even at great personal cost, to advocate for marginalized communities. Her courage, fearlessness, and unapologetic dedication to challenging the status quo inspires me to do the same!
What advice would you share with Black women looking to pursue a career in sports?
It can be difficult for women as a whole to break into a career in sports, and that’s especially true for Black women. Be intentional about building connections within spaces created to support underrepresented communities in sports. Find your niche and explore what makes you unique and valuable. Connect with Black women who are doing well in the field, stay curious, ask questions, and learn from their experiences. The most important thing is that you are exposed to as many opportunities and perspectives as possible, because visibility, relationships and trust can make a meaningful difference
Charita concluded her interview by saying, “Always remember how important it is to stay true to who you are. Know the value you bring to the table, stay innovative and committed, and lead with both kindness and a bold passion for what you do!”
About Black History Month
Since 1976, Black History Month has been celebrated in the U.S. every February to honor the achievements and contributions that Black Americans have made to this country.
Since its founding in 1968, Black American athletes and staff have been at the forefront of the Special Olympics movement, paving the way for the inclusion of people with and without intellectual disabilities.
The message of inclusion extends to all people, regardless of race or ethnicity. Visit our Black History Month page for more stories about impact.
#Charita #Boseman #leads #kindness #bold #passion