Holidays & CelebrationsNWA Real EstateTrendsWe Know February 24, 2025

Celebrating Black History Month

At Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Journey, inclusivity and diversity are not just ideals—we aim to live them every day. They are deeply embedded in our core values, represented by PAIGE: Passion, Authenticity, Inclusion, Growth, and Excellence. These principles guide our vision as a company, shaping how we serve our clients, support our colleagues, and engage with our community. We believe that fostering an environment where everyone feels valued, heard, and empowered is essential to our success. That’s why we celebrate Black History Month in February—to recognize the profound impact of Black leaders, innovators, and trailblazers who have shaped our world.

However, our commitment to honoring Black history and heritage extends far beyond just one month. We lead by example, ensuring that diversity and inclusion are reflected in every aspect of our business—from the relationships we build to the opportunities we create. Our mission is to cultivate spaces where all are included, and everyone belongs, fostering a culture where different perspectives and experiences are embraced. By prioritizing representation, equity, and meaningful dialogue year-round, we continue to uphold our values and contribute to a future where inclusivity is not just encouraged—it’s expected.

Nikki Taylor, a valued and celebrated agent and member of the the Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Journey team, shares why Black History is important to all of us and what it means to her:

Black history is my history. Black history is U.S. history. If we choose to remove the divides, it is “US” history. The contributions of African Americans have impacted and shaped all our lives; be it music, fashion, medicine, science, inventions, wars and civil rights activism. So Black History Month serves as a time to celebrate and recognize so many of those contributions and achievements that have been often overlooked or forgotten. We don’t know what we don’t know. So, we must teach. Teach our children the history of this nation so the negative portions don’t repeat, and they are inspired to continue making positive strides toward positive change.

As for the black community, it isn’t uncommon to be choked with the fallacious narrative of who we are. For this cause, it becomes even more imperative to revisit our history to remind us of the undeniable truths we embody. We aren’t ignorant, lazy, violent or less than. We are intellects, innovators, compassionate and worthy of the space we take up in this world. I don’t take it lightly that I stand in 2025, as a free woman, able to have my own business, live in the neighborhood of my choosing and give my children the best education. I have the right to exercise my freedom of speech and vote. All of these liberties are available because so many African Americans fought for rights, they would never have the luxury of experiencing. However, they did it to ensure the future of generations to come. So let us strive to do the same.

As I reflect on the accomplishments of my ancestors, I am inspired to be better. I am humbled by their strength and their passion for what they believed in. I am overwhelmed by the compassion they were still able to show in the face of adversity and outright hate. I come from great people and that should be celebrated. I am because they are…we can because they did. Happy Black History Month.