Celebrating Black History Month – meet Charnyse Burton

As we continue to celebrate and recognize the importance of promoting diverse perspectives within the business, we are reflecting on the importance of Black History Month, culture and diversity with some of our employees.

Meet Charnyse Burton, a Project Coordinator on our CPSS PC contract at NASA HQ in Washington D.C, as well as a Second Lieutenant and Signal Officer in the 29^th Infantry Division of the Maryland Army National Guard.

She believes that Black History Month is important for several reasons: it acknowledges the accomplishments, challenges, and resiliency of black individuals throughout history, it promotes education and awareness, it empowers and inspires communities, and it informs efforts to address systemic racism and inequality.

According to Charnyse, “There are many inspiring aspects of Black culture, including its resilience in the face of adversity, creativity, innovation, and contributions to various fields such as music, art, literature, science, and the social justice movement. Additionally, Black culture celebrates diversity, community, and fostering a sense of pride and belonging among individuals of African descent worldwide”.

When asked who the biggest inspiration in her life has been, she mentions her grandmother. “Her passion for life, creativity, and resilience have shaped who I am today. One of the most remarkable things about her is her incredible talent for writing. She didn’t just write a book, she also wrote several poems, and a cookbook for her family, each filled with wisdom, humor, and profound insights.”

Charnyse goes on to say: “When it comes to diversity and inclusion, I consider myself extremely lucky to be employed by a company like Barrios that not only talks the talk, but also walks the walk. By fostering a culture that emphasizes kindness, compassion, and openness, Barrios allows me to bring my whole self to work and contribute to a more diverse and vibrant workspace”.