During Black History Month, Inspire celebrates the stories of our corporate and franchise team members, as well as franchisees as we reflect on the significant roles that African-Americans have played in shaping U.S. history. Today, we spoke with Allek Surratt, who is a Senior Accountant at Inspire and a member of our Black Voices @ Inspire Business Resource Group, which is dedicated to advocating for diversity at all levels of our organization and cultivating an inclusive culture.

What drew you to joining the Black Voices @ Inspire BRG? 

As a black man, there are certain nuances to corporate America that are greatly assisted by being able to connect with colleagues that have similar backgrounds and have to address similar conditions.

Why is being a member of this BRG important to you? 

Being a member of this BRG is important to me because I want to be more comfortable in being my complete self at work, and in doing so, empower others to as well.

What are your aspirations as a member of this BRG? 

My aspirations are to be apart of healthy dialogue about the black experience (in all of its variety). Also, for members to have a platform to be heard and recognized. From my own experience, I know that being seen in my role as an accountant is it’s own form of affirmation. Being affirmed encourages growth, and growth enables the ability to teach someone else.

What excites you about the future of the Black Voices @ Inspire BRG? 

I am excited to hear new voices and have new conversations. Novelty creates hope for many outcomes, and I look forward to seeing how the BRG grows.

What does Black History Month mean to you? 

Black History Month always reminds me of how vast black history is, but how intentional I have to be in recognizing it. It reminds me of the importance of documentation, and that I still have a responsibility to ensure that my daughter knows black history even if the information isn’t centralized or readily available.

How are you celebrating Black History Month? 

I can’t say that I have a formal celebration planned for this month, but I can say that I cherish our history, and I am passionate about growth within my community in every facet of life. However I feel I can contribute to that, is how I will continue to honor black history.

To learn more about the Black Voices @ Inspire BRG or to join the group, contact Daija Griffin.

This story is part of an ongoing series that celebrates the stories of our corporate and franchise team members, as well as franchisees as we reflect on the significant roles that African-Americans have played in shaping U.S. history. Click here to read other stories like this.