PNC Partners Preserve Black History Across Communities

PNC | Insights

NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / March 1, 2023 / Each year, the nation takes the month of February to reflect on the endless contributions and achievements of African Americans. PNC also celebrates Black History Month, but its support for Black communities, organizations and individuals extends far beyond the month.

"Diversity, equity and inclusion is part of the fabric of PNC," says Richard Bynum, chief corporate responsibility officer. "It has long been at the heart of how we run our business and has guided our efforts around economic empowerment."

PNC's relationships with national and neighborhood organizations represent just one example of how the bank supports the preservation of Black history, while also providing invaluable education and hope for brighter futures.

A few of the premiere PNC-supported community treasures shared their stories of how they are working to keep Black history and culture accessible to all.

Atlanta, National Center for Civil and Human Rights

PNC's relationship with the National Center for Civil and Human Rights (NCCHR) traces back to 2013 when the bank's Tax Credit Solutions team allocated $11 million in New Markets Tax Credits to help finance the Center's construction.

Over the years, PNC has supported the museum and human rights educational institution by sponsoring programs that create dynamic and empathy-building experiences that also teach about history's connection to the present.

Atlanta, a city steeped in civil rights history and the birthplace of Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., is home to the center, which connects the U.S. civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s to global human rights movements for people of color, women, immigrants, those with disabilities, LGBTQ+ people and other marginalized communities.

"We are excited to welcome visitors to celebrate and reflect on this history of bravery and resistance," says Jill Savitt, NCCHR president and CEO. "Black History Month is an ideal time to look back at the lives and examples of iconic and unsung activists for strength and insight as we confront persistent modern oppression."

More recent Black history and heritage programming has included a timeline activity for children and families and a mural creation of the late civil rights legend and longtime congressman Rep. John Lewis (D-Georgia). Musical and dance performances and a conversation with civil rights activist Ambassador Andrew Young also have been a part of events celebrating Black history and heritage at the center. Young, also a former Atlanta mayor, served as a leader of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and marched with MLK during the 1950s and 1960s.