February 2024: Serena A. Rwejuna is a partner in our Energy, Infrastructure, Project and Asset Finance Group (EIPAF) in Washington, DC. She talked to us about the meaning of Black History Month in the US for her, and its wider significance.
This year's Black History Month theme is an opportunity to celebrate
The theme is "African Americans and the Arts" and it can be a powerful theme when used to celebrate the creativity and beauty in Black culture, and the deeper contributions of Black creatives to American society through the arts. The arts are an avenue for expression and celebration, as well as remembrance and memorialization. The arts have played a critical role at every stage of Black history, from providing an outlet for expression in the face of injustice and oppression, to shining a light on the struggles African Americans have faced in the US, to celebrating individual and societal successes. Plus, as a former musician, dancer and singer, this is a theme that really resonates with me.
Black artists and creatives are continuing to highlight injustices and successes alike
I love that artists today are not afraid to embed substance into their music and their TV shows. "Atlanta" is an example of a comedy-drama that while very entertaining, unapologetically touches on really critical issues like race, class, identity and how we define success. Issa Rae is another modern-day artist who dives headfirst into African American and Black culture, remaining authentic in her work, while also maintaining a large mainstream following and earning huge acclaim. The ability to be successful while also maintaining your authenticity is what sets apart the greatest artists.
I feel very embedded in both African immigrant and African American cultures
As a woman of both African immigrant and African American descent, I know and understand the struggles that my parents, grandparents and so many other predecessors and ancestors had to endure, and how their tenacity and courage, and strength and faith brought them through what many would consider to be truly unimaginable.
Black women make up only 1 percent of partners in US law firms
And we only reached that figure in 2023. There is so much more work to do, but I'm thankful to say that I am truly a part of living Black history. During this Black History Month, we recognize and appreciate the gains we've made, but also highlight the work that's still left to be done.
There's a saying, "I am my ancestors' wildest dreams"
But I hope to be even more than that, because I know in my heart that my ancestors knew and believed in what we could accomplish, and that's why they fought so hard. I think it's probably more accurate to say I now have the ability to live out my ancestors' fullest potential. And that's something that I'm really proud of, and that I don't take for granted.
Black History Month is significant both personally and professionally
For me, it represents a recognition of, and appreciation for, the generations of Black people who fought and struggled to achieve the gains African Americans have made so far, and also celebrates the beauty and depth of African American contributions to society. As an Energy attorney, it's easy to see our contributions through STEM; and as an attorney, I celebrate our contributions through the law and policy.
I'm looking forward to marking this month in multiple ways
There are a lot of events that are going to showcase the beauty and contributions of African Americans and the gains we've made, but for me it's even deeper. I'm also going to celebrate through service and volunteering with my sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, and other local DC nonprofit organizations like Calvary Women's Services. Through service, I hope I'm able to play a small role in helping to inspire, motivate and empower our local community, and the next generation of Black leaders and innovators.
Artwork in header banner ©Kip Omolade, Child of the Crown (detail), 2024
