As Special Olympics celebrates Black History Month, we’re highlighting some of our employees to learn about their journey with Special Olympics and share insights into what this month means to them.
Charita Bosman has been part of the Special Olympics movement since 2015, starting with Special Olympics International, and joined Special Olympics North America in 2022, where she serves as Senior Director of Health. For the past decade, she has been part of the 2018 Seattle Pan American Games, the 50thy Special Olympics Anniversary FIFA Unified World Cup Chicago 2018the 2024 Canada National Winter Games Calgary, and three Special Olympics World Games: Los Angeles 2015, Austria 2017and Abu Dhabi 2019.
How long have you been a part of Special Olympics?
It’s hard to believe that June of this year will mark 11 years since I joined the Special Olympics movement. After earning my master’s degree in Health Promotion and Sports Science, I transitioned from a CDC grant while working at a national public health nonprofit in Washington, D.C. when an opportunity presented itself with the Special Olympics Global Health Team and I was pleasantly surprised to learn that health was an important and integral part of the movement, which ultimately prompted me to apply and join.
Have you seen the way black history has been celebrated over the years?
Yes! As an organization, we were determined to recognize and elevate Black leaders and athletes within our community. We also bring a global perspective to these celebrations by engaging colleagues from across the Black diaspora, helping to highlight the diversity of Black experiences. Additionally, we hosted Black sports professionals who shared their personal journeys and insights from the sports industry, creating opportunities for learning, reflection and networking.
How do you think organizations and individuals are actively working to advance racial equality beyond performative gestures?
Organizations can go beyond performative gestures by committing to fair hiring and retention practices, educating employees about implicit bias, and ensuring that opportunities are fair and accessible to all. Organizations should regularly assess who they serve and who they do not understand gaps in inclusion and take targeted steps to address them. At the individual level, people in the workplace can promote racial equity by advocating for others, showing empathy toward marginalized voices, and actively reflecting on and challenging biases that can arise in everyday professional settings.
What black historical figure inspires you and why?
I would say Angela Davis, a living black historical figure. She previously served on the board of an organization she once worked for, and I had the opportunity to meet her, which made her impact feel particularly personal. Angela Davis continually challenges people to imagine alternatives to unjust systems, particularly in the areas of racial justice and gender equality. She embodies integrity and compassion, standing firm in her convictions even at great personal cost to stand up for marginalized communities. Her courage, bravery, and unapologetic commitment to challenging the status quo inspires me to do the same!
What advice would you like to share with black women who want to pursue careers in sports?
It can be difficult for women in general to break into careers in sports, and this may be especially true for Black women. Be intentional in building connections within spaces created to support underrepresented communities in sports. Find your niche and rely on what makes you unique and valuable. Connect with Black women who are thriving in this field, be curious, ask questions, and learn from their experiences. Most importantly, learn about as many opportunities and perspectives as possible because vision, relationships, and trust can make a meaningful difference
Charita concluded her interview by saying, “Always remember the importance of staying true to who you are. Know the value you bring to the table, stay innovative and engaged, and lead with kindness and bold passion for what you do!”
About Black History Month
Since 1976, Black History Month has been observed every February in the United States to honor the achievements and contributions that Black Americans have made to this country.
Since its inception in 1968, African-American athletes and staff have been at the forefront of the Special Olympics movement, leading the way for the inclusion of people with and without intellectual disabilities.
The message of inclusion extends to all people, regardless of race or ethnicity. Visit our website Black History Month A page to learn more impactful stories.
