Black History Month is a time to appreciate contributions Black Americans have made to our country, and to recognize and address the ongoing struggle for equality.

Dr. Huelen Smith, lead physician at WellMed at Seguin in Seguin, Texas, marks the month as a time to reflect on the life his ancestors lived.

“Black History Month is a time to stop and pay homage to the people before me and  their struggles, passed down from generation to generation.”

Dr. Smith says he also keeps the spirit of Black history alive with his children, celebrating San Antonio’s MLK Jr. March and Black History Month with his children.

“My kids were holding the lead sign at the MLK march two years ago, right next to the mayor,” he said.

Kayla Martin, regional manager, WellMed at Longwood in Florida, celebrates the culture and heritage of her community, and the legacy Black Americans continue to build.

“We are not just celebrating the past, but the present and the future; the accomplishments we have made and will make,” she said.

As a first-generation college graduate, from Florida A&M University, Kayla is an example of those accomplishments.

“That’s something I’m very proud of, breaking the barrier for a new legacy for our family,” she said, adding that she is also proud of college friends who now work in the White House for President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. “With Black History Month, we embrace that we don’t let our circumstances limit our accomplishments.”