“I believe unconditionally in the ability of people to respond when they are told the truth. We need to be taught to study rather than believe, to inquire rather than to affirm.” – Septima Poinsette Clark

When I ask you to think of #leadership effectiveness, who comes to mind? Today I reflect on the lessons taught to us by #SeptimaPClark.

Born in Charleston, South Carolina in 1898, Septima Poinsette Clark was a #civilrights activist, educator, and member of the NAACP. As an educator and activist, she advocated for the integration of public schools. Her involvement with the #NAACP did not go unnoticed, and as a result, the Charleston City School Board fired her. This act of injustice ignited a spark within Clark, and she devoted all her time to activism.

She designed educational programs to teach the African American community members how to read and write. By improving literacy within her community, she improved voting conditions and laid the groundwork for #citizeneducation, the cornerstone of the Civile Rights Movement.

Throughout her life, Septima Poinsette Clark taught to lead without being in the limelight and showed leaders how to provide the resources and groundwork for those around them to succeed.

This #BlackHistoryMonth, I ask you to take some time to reflect on which leaders you consider effective.

Next, ask yourself, “When others think about leadership effectiveness, do they think of me?”

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