SER National Honoring African Americans and Labor As Pillars of Black History Month 2025

SER National Honoring African Americans and Labor As Pillars of Black History Month 2025

SER National observes Black History Month by reaffirming its commitment to workforce development and training that uplifts all communities, including the extraordinary contributions of Black Americans. As a national leader in workforce development, SER National recognizes the economic and cultural vibrancy that Black Americans bring to our nation and highlights the shared responsibility of embracing this legacy for a brighter future.

In keeping with the 2025 Black History Month theme, “African Americans and Labor,” SER National reaffirms its dedication to advancing economic opportunity, celebrating diversity, and fostering collaboration that honors the contributions of every individual.

Ignacio Salazar, President and CEO of SER National, underscores the importance of honoring Black contributions through action. “Black History Month is not only a time to reflect on the profound sacrifices and achievements of Black Americans but also to invest in initiatives that ensure equal access to opportunities,” Salazar said. “The SER Network of Affiliates works tirelessly to equip individuals with the tools needed to succeed in today’s competitive workforce. Together, we celebrate the legacy of African Americans and their labor that will continue to inspire for generations to come.”

Black Americans play an essential role in the U.S. economy. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Black workers accounted for 13.1% of the total labor force in 2024, contributing across industries from healthcare and technology to arts and education. Moreover, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, Black-owned businesses generate more than $200 billion in annual revenue, underscoring their critical role in driving economic growth and innovation.

The SER Network of Affiliates operates nationwide to deliver training programs, career services, and job placement initiatives that promote upward mobility for all Americans. These programs embody the ideals of Black History Month by fostering collaboration in labor in communities across the United States.

“At SER National, we are reminded daily of the strength and resilience of Black Americans whose contributions have shaped our nation’s history and economy,” Salazar added. “Through education and workforce development, we honor this legacy by empowering individuals to achieve their fullest potential while enriching the communities they serve.”

In observance of Black History Month, SER National encourages every individual to take time to learn, engage, and act. This can include supporting Black-owned businesses, mentoring young professionals, or participating in community events that amplify Black voices. By doing so, we strengthen the ideals of equality and unity that define our nation’s future.

SER National Observes MLK Day By Championing Bridges to Opportunity and Fostering Training for America’s Workforce

SER National Observes MLK Day By Championing Bridges to Opportunity and Fostering Training for America’s Workforce

In honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, SER National joins the nation in reflecting on Dr. King’s enduring vision of equality, justice, and opportunity. As we celebrate his profound contributions to civil rights, we also recommit ourselves to fostering workplaces where everyone thrives, inequities are dismantled, and every individual has the chance to succeed.

“Dr. King showed us that nonviolence and unity can transform societies and dismantle injustice,” says SER National’s President and CEO, Ignacio Salazar. “His message inspires us to illuminate minds through education that opens doors of opportunity; also, that we empower each other to uplift our lives through learning and initiative. SER National and the SER Network of Affiliates are dedicated to honoring Dr. King’s vision of creating pathways for individuals of all backgrounds to achieve their full potential. Nothing is more powerful and instills more self-dignity than acquiring skills and knowledge that allow us to realize our individual dreams,” says Salazar.

The theme for this year, “Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence 365,” serves as both a call to action and a guidepost for our work in 2025. Inspired by Dr. King’s principles of nonviolence, we are committed to addressing systemic inequities and building what he envisioned as the “Beloved Community,” a society where opportunity is abundant, and justice prevails.

Our progress as a society is significant, yet the journey toward fulfilling Dr. King’s dream remains ongoing. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the representation of Black Americans in management-level positions has risen to 9.1%, a notable improvement from 7.6% in 2010. However, gaps persist, particularly in STEM fields, where Black and Latino workers collectively make up just 16% of the workforce despite accounting for nearly 30% of the U.S. population (Pew Research Center, 2023). These disparities remind us of the work that is still ahead to create genuinely inclusive opportunities for all.

SER National recognizes that achieving such a vision requires actionable steps. Across the U.S. and Puerto Rico, our affiliates equip underserved workers with training, certifications, and resources. We empower individuals daily to overcome barriers and thrive in today’s competitive workforce. Moreover, fostering inclusivity within organizations—from adopting skills-based hiring practices to providing advancement opportunities—is essential to building a workforce that reflects the rich diversity of our nation.

“As we honor Dr. King’s legacy, let us remember that progress is not inevitable but is achieved through the concerted efforts of individuals, communities, and organizations working together,” says Salazar. “By uniting our strengths and remaining committed to equity and opportunity, we can fulfill his vision of an America where justice and dignity are within reach for all,” he says.

Today, as we celebrate Dr. King’s life and legacy, let us be inspired to carry forward his mission in words and meaningful actions that ensure every worker has a fair chance to contribute to and benefit from our nation’s prosperity. Together, we can make his dream a reality.