Welcome To Blacks
Amplifying Black Excellence in Aging
Our Mission
Our mission is to bring together Black researchers, industry professionals, clinicians, and students in the field of aging, and to mutually support one another as we navigate academic, corporate and entrepreneurial paths to success.
We advocate for more diversity, inclusion, and equity within the organizations and amplify our collective voices as we call for aging and health equity.
Our Vision
Black in Gerontology & Geriatrics (BIGG) is an organization that was born to address the systemic inequities found in aging research/teaching/practice by focusing on three primary pillars – community, advocacy, and accountability.
Black in Gerontology & Geriatrics brings together a global network of BIGGs, Allies, and Organizational Sponsors contributing to the goal of enhancing diversity, inclusion and equity in the field of aging.
We believe that to see increased presence of Black and under-represented minorities in the field of aging we must actively build community, advocate for diversity and encourage accountability.
Community
Building community through networking and mentorship is a first step to increasing the presence of Black and under-represented minorities in the field of aging. Our objective is to facilitate these connections and support through hosted events and social media.
Advocacy
Advocacy. We believe that to effect change, we need to advocate for diversity. We do this by gathering opportunities for talent sourcing, connecting industry, academia and the community. In addition, we purposefully highlight the amazing work being done by our community as a means to increase visibility as well as encourage individuals on their journey.
Accountability
We know change is not always immediate, but an important step is to ensuring progress is to track the progress and highlight success. We hope to work alongside academia and industry to help them find talent, retain talent and highlight progress in increased diversity.