Black History Month in the Making
AutoIMS, though a small company, values diversity. In fact, you might call it one of our superpowers. So why not take the opportunity during Black History Month to check in with our own black history makers? We hope you enjoy the input from Arsenio, Ken, Del, and, Kellee.
Arsenio Murphy
What is your superpower? Supporting and encouraging others in discovering and/or using their superpowers.
What is one element of BHM that has had an impact on your life or what is a BHM story you wished was told more? More stories being told and highlighted about other black pioneers outside of MLK, Muhammed Ali, Rosa Parks, and other mainstream names. Such as Bessie Coleman, who was the first, black, licensed pilot in the world. She paved the way for future diverse fliers like the Tuskegee Airmen and Blackbirds.
Share one, fun fact about yourself. I truly love multiple genres of music. I have one spotify playlist that includes EDM, classical music, country, pop, rock, gospel, bebop, and more!
How will you have made history in 50 years? I hope with the time I have, even if I don’t make it to the 50 years, that I would have helped to create opportunities in the film and technology industries which encourages many other black boys and girls to aspire to making their own mark. Whether I’m recognized to have contributed in this way is irrelevant, as long as these new opportunities are made available through my work and working with others.
Ken Goodwin
What is your superpower? Perseverance.
What is one element of BHM that has had an impact on your life or what is a BHM story you wished was told more? The celebration of where we’ve come from, and how we continue to push the boundaries.
Share one, fun fact about yourself. I stream video games.
How will you have made history in 50 years? By improving the acceptance and normalization of black content creators in gaming/cosplay environment
Del Kent
What is your superpower? Healing power.
What is one element of BHM that has had an impact on your life or what is a BHM story you wished was told more? The one element I enjoy is learning more about black pioneers. I don’t think that gets highlighted enough. Not just during BHM but throughout the year.
Share one, fun fact about yourself. One fun fact about me is I enjoy a good laugh. I love to smile and enjoy life.
How will you have made history in 50 years? Honestly, I don’t know but I hope that whatever my impact is in 50 years, it brings positive change.
Kellee Watson
What is your superpower? My superpower is the ability to listen and be the calm in the middle of a storm. I stay level-headed no matter what is going on and I can get others to think rationally before reacting based on emotions.
What is one element of BHM that has had an impact on your life or what is a BHM story you wished was told more? I just wish we talked more about the great accomplishments of other African Americans besides those of the Civil Rights Movement. Don’t get me wrong, the Civil Rights Movement and the key players are important, but our history is so colorful and rich. There are so many other influential African Americans that can and should be discussed not only during BHM, but throughout the year.
Share one, fun fact about yourself. I have been a Girl Scout troop leader for the past seven years.
How will you have made history in 50 years? Tough question. I hope that within the next 50 years I will have made a profound impact on some of my Girl Scouts’ lives and they will forever hold me near and dear to their hearts. I hope that I can help mold them into strong leaders of the future and they will be able to look back one day and say that I had something to do with their success.