February Shift Notes

Hi there,

February marks Black History Month, but if we lived in a world with equal access to opportunity, we wouldn’t need a month. Black history is American history—essential to understanding where we’ve been, where we are, and where we need to go. 

Yet, as we watch political efforts to dismantle federal agencies and attack DEI initiatives, we must recognize that we’re moving toward a reality where the pursuit of equality feels further out of reach than it has in generations. Now is not the time for White folks to disengage; it’s time to double down on self-education, action, and resistance.

Over the years, I’ve navigated my own anti-racism journey—learning to sit with discomfort, unlearning false narratives, and working to reimagine systems built for true equity. A few key insights from a recent SURJ (Showing Up for Racial Justice) webinar resonated deeply:

💡 "DEI isn't the problem; White supremacy is. Don’t get distracted by the backlash."

📢 “You can’t fight only in terms of short-term gains. You fight for the people yet to come.”

 🔥 "If you believe in collective liberation, you must actively resist the systems that uphold racial inequity—even when no one is watching."

So, what does resistance look like for you this month? Where can you use your influence, resources, and voice to push for change? Let’s keep this work central—not just in February, but every day.

With resolve,
Lynn

Photo taken at a Montgomery, AL, coffee shop, on my 2019 Civil Rights roadtrip.

Introducing The Strategy Shift: Fractional CSO Support for Leaders Navigating Change

Social impact leaders are overextended, navigating complex systems, and balancing multiple stakeholders—all while trying to sustain impact in a time of immense change, without burning out.

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We’re always learning at The Collective Shift Co.—and we love sharing what’s sparking us. This month, dive into these must-read/watch resources to support your celebration of Black History Month:

📚 The Sum of Us – A groundbreaking book on how racism costs everyone—and what we can do. And spoiler: It turns out there is a long, long history of White people consistently opposing programs that would actually make their lives better. This is a must-read.

🎞️ MLK/FBI and King in the Wilderness – These two documentaries gave me a whole new understanding of Dr. King’s last years of life and how brutally the FBI targeted King’s work. 

📺 Black Cake (Hulu) – I binge-watched this series in one weekend and fell in love with the characters and story. Set across multiple decades and continents, Black Cake follows a woman’s hidden past as her estranged children uncover secrets after her passing. It’s a deeply moving exploration of heritage, sacrifice, and the ties that bind us.

Let us know what’s inspiring you—just hit Reply and share!

P.S. 🚀 Interested in joining our social changemakers book club? Get on the waitlist here.