Celebrating African Americans in Roofing

As we observed Black History Month in February 2023, we acknowledged how African American members of our Atlas family are helping to inspire and empower future generations to pursue careers in the roofing and construction industries.

In celebration of their accomplishments and contributions, we spoke to our own Tiara Searcy, (the recently promoted) senior digital marketing manager for Atlas. Tiara has been with the company seven years and as an original Asphalt Lifer, she has been the face of many Atlas webinar and marketing videos, as well as one of the host voices on The Asphalt Life Podcast.

In this Atlas Insider video on Black History Month, Tiara discusses what Black History Month means and how the observation of Black history helps to further growth in the industry and in her role at Atlas.

The History of Black History Month

Black History Month is celebrated in February because the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln, who issued the Emancipation Proclamation, and Frederick Douglass, who led the abolitionist movement, fall during the second week of the month — Feb. 12 and Feb. 14, respectively.

Black History Month is an opportunity to reflect on the struggles and hardships that Black Americans — from political activists to artists and scientists to athletes — have faced throughout history, as well as a time to honor the strength and resilience of those who, despite egregious prejudice and oppression, fought for their right to be able to make meaningful contributions to our society — contributions that include valuable innovations in industries such as construction and engineering.

For example, Garrett Morgan, a Black inventor, is credited with inventing the three-way traffic signal, which revolutionized the way traffic flowed in cities and helped prevent accidents. He also invented a gas mask that was used by U.S. soldiers during World War I.

Building an Inclusive Industry

Like the many beautiful hues of Atlas shingles, our roofing family is made up of a variety of colorful people — from skin tone to personality — who make this company a great place to work.

By taking the time to celebrate Black History Month, Atlas continues a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.

We are proud to honor the people of color who have played and are playing an important role in advancing inclusivity in the roofing industry, fostering a welcoming and safe workplace culture for everyone within this community — and beyond.

For more information about the origin of Black History Month and to learn about some of the people who contributed to the liberation and civil rights of African Americans, visit:

• BlackHistory.gov
• Association for the Study of African American Life and History – ASALH.org
• Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture – NMAAHC.si.edu