5 Things Not to Say to Your Black Coworkers During Black History Month (or Ever…)

Black History Month should be a celebratory time of year full of rich conversations about history and culture. Unfortunately, it can also lead to uncomfortable comments that create an unsafe work environment for Black employees.

In order to create psychological safety, whether in the office or in a virtual workplace setting, employees of all levels must reflect on their words and actions. Celebrating Black history at work requires accountability and self-education to make sure Black employees feel valued and supported.

As a career coach and talent development advisor, I’ve worked with hundreds of Black employees and heard what makes them feel unsafe at work. And as a Black woman myself, I’ve experienced firsthand how uncomfortable Black History Month can be when my coworkers and managers aren’t equipped to have conversations about systemic racism and unconscious bias.

If you want to be an ally and help create a work environment that uplifts and supports your Black coworkers, I’ve listed five things you definitely shouldn’t say to Black employees during Black History Month—or ever—and how you can be more supportive.