Mercury Public Affairs, LLC’s Post

Black Leaders in Finance Highlight: O.W. Gurley This Black History Month, let's journey back to the early 20th century and learn about a visionary entrepreneur who laid the foundation for generations of Black success in finance and business, Ottawa W. Gurley. His story is not just about overcoming odds but about resilience, community, and the pursuit of economic empowerment. 🏡 Building a Legacy: In 1906, Gurley purchased 40 acres of land in Tulsa, Oklahoma, exclusively for Black ownership. This marked the birth of Greenwood, a thriving hub of Black enterprise known as "Black Wall Street." 👨💼Leader in Action: Gurley was a catalyst for change. By founding numerous businesses and institutions, including the Vernon AME Church and the Gurley Hotel, he created opportunities for Black individuals to thrive and prosper. 💼Economic Empowerment: Greenwood wasn't just a place - it was a movement. Gurley's vision attracted a wave of Black professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors, transforming Tulsa into a beacon of Black excellence. 🔥The Tragedy and Triumph: Despite Greenwood's prosperity, tragedy struck in 1921 with the Tulsa Race Massacre. Gurley, like many others, lost everything. But his spirit endured, inspiring future generations to rise from the ashes and rebuild. 💡Legacy of Empowerment: Gurley's legacy lives on in the resilience of his descendants and the thriving businesses they've built. From Ariel Investments to Vista Equity Partners, Black-owned firms continue to break barriers and redefine success. As we celebrate Black History Month, let's honor O.W. Gurley's pioneering spirit and remember the resilience of Black communities in the face of adversity. Together, we can continue his legacy of empowerment and create a more inclusive and prosperous future for all. #BlackHistoryMonth #FinancialEmpowerment #LegacyOfResilience Learn more about OW Gurley & Black Wall Street through our source: https://lnkd.in/gPV_22xf

During Black History Month we'll highlight the quotes of some Black Business persons. Robert F. Smith is an African American businessman, investor, and philanthropist. As the founder, chairman, and CEO of Vista Equity Partners, he has made significant contributions to technology and philanthropy. He is known for his insightful perspectives on business and success. This quote is one that can be relevant for us all. It encourages us to be our complete selves. When we look at our life and business holistically, we can achieve much more than by separating the various parts of ourselves. If you're not on my email list and would like to receive my newsletters - which converge tips for business owners on Mind, Body, and Spirit, please let me know... send me a DM! #blackhistorymonth #blackbusinessowners #makingblackhistory

During Black History Month we'll highlight the quotes of some Black Business persons. Robert F. Smith is an African American businessman, investor, and philanthropist. As the founder, chairman, and CEO of Vista Equity Partners, he has made significant contributions to technology and philanthropy. He is known for his insightful perspectives on business and success. This quote is one that can be relevant for us all. It encourages us to be our complete selves. When we look at our life and business holistically, we can achieve much more than by separating the various parts of ourselves. If you're not on my email list and would like to receive my newsletters - which converge tips for business owners on Mind, Body, and Spirit, please let me know... send me a DM! #blackhistorymonth #blackbusinessowners #makingblackhistory

The February issue of our monthly newsletter, the New Church Know-It-All, is out! Only our subscribers get to know first about events like Leadership Academy and investment opportunities from Disciples Church Extension Fund, so make sure to read and subscribe at: https://ow.ly/sRQk50QHa5f. #ccdoc

M&T Bank and Wilmington Trust together with NBC4 invite you to a discussion celebrating African American business leadership, entrepreneurship, and the need for access to advocacy, sponsorship, and capital in a business. Our panel will also discuss the State of Black Wealth in the U.S., the importance of financial inclusion and building generational wealth. Click on the image to register. #nonprofitleadership #nonprofits https://lnkd.in/eed_rar6

It's a rarely discussed fact, but black leaders in the social sector often have to work exponentially harder compared to their white counterparts. There's an unspoken issue of distrust from the funding community towards black nonprofit leaders that needs to be acknowledged and addressed. For years, black leaders have been at the forefront of community service, often financing their world-changing efforts from their own pockets. Their commitment is undeniable, pouring their blood, sweat, and tears into their work. Yet, this level of investment is not sustainable. The risk of burnout is high, and the passion that initially drove them can diminish under such intense pressure. Many talented individuals may eventually leave for the for-profit sector, not out of desire, but necessity. The real loss in this scenario is felt by the communities they serve. Our society seems to overlook this, accepting it as the norm. However, it's imperative that we change this narrative. We must protect and support our black leaders within our communities. It's time to stand up for our leaders, invest in them, and recognize their worth and the extraordinary impact they have on our communities. If we fail to support them, we risk not only the loss of their invaluable contributions but also the potential for historical traumas to resurface. #blackleadership #blkednetwork #nonprofit

🫱🏿🫲🏿 Black Executive Men Capital hits different than a normal PE firm. Private equity will never be the same. Black Executive Men Capital goes beyond traditional investing. They empower a dynamic network of Black men in private equity to succeed financially and socially. The mission of Black Executive Men Capital is to build strong relationships and support talented individuals, creating a community that values and enhances achievement. Whether you're seeking to diversify your investment portfolio or connect with like-minded peers, Black Executive Men Capital is your top choice. The Black Executive Men Network provides exceptional opportunities such as online learning, exclusive dinners, and curated social gatherings to strengthen bonds and foster collaboration. Members, like myself, gain from valuable relationships, potential partnerships, expert market insights, fundraising strategies, career growth prospects, and shared celebrations of success. Join the Black Executive Men Network, where excellence is the norm and success is a collective accomplishment! 👏🏿 Get started here: https://lnkd.in/gGpmX_rz #BlackExecutiveMenCapital #BlackExecutiveMenNetwork #PrivateEquity #Success #Community #YBConnects #CollaborationCreatesCurrency

Today's Juneteenth, and for the last several months I've been talking to friends and colleagues who're all mad, scared and exasperated with the state of funding and how it's impacting Black leadership and Black-led organizations. We're disappearing at a rapid, alarming rate now that the goodwill and urgency of 2020 has regressed to familiar levels. I wrote about it more in the latest Catalyst:Ed newsletter, and in our blog which I'm linking here. Share any thoughts and look out for more from us soon. https://lnkd.in/euUKzVZ4

Calling all history enthusiasts and Black Business Leaders! Join the NABA SF Chapter and Theresa Hammond, Ph.D., for an exclusive webinar on the overlooked journey of Black accountants in America.  Gain insights into Hammond's career trajectory and her work uncovering the little-known history of Black accountants in America. Secure your spot today! https://bit.ly/4dlYB0r #DiversityInFinance #UntoldStories #Webinar #BlackAccountants #BlackCPA #FinanceInclusion

Starting the conversation to education and growth.