2/11/2025 9:00:00 AM
We recognize February as Black History Month to celebrate the achievements, contributions and diversity of Minnesota’s Black community as well as acknowledge our history and the progress we continue to work toward today.
We asked Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) team members to talk about the significance of Black History Month in their lives.
Jacqueline Garbacz is a Registered Nurse Minimum Data Set (MDS) Coordinator at the Minnesota Veterans Home - Minneapolis. She gathers information using the Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) process which assesses a Resident’s behavioral, psychological, clinical, nutritional and physical strength to create an individualized care plan. Jacqueline also works with an interdisciplinary team (IDT) to ensure care plan guidelines are followed and compliant with ethical standards and Medicare requirements. She has worked as an MDS Coordinator since 1998 and will celebrate her 10th anniversary at MDVA in April!
Why is it important to recognize the Black community's role in American history and culture?
Acknowledgement gives everyone an opportunity to come together in recognizing the priceless contribution of the Black community. Also, it’s an important way to honor our ancestors’ struggles and to celebrate Black achievements around the world.
Describe a role model from African American culture and how they influenced you.
Former First Lady Michelle Obama has Influenced me to reach higher in my professional and personal goals. I think her most inspiring quote is, “For me, becoming isn’t about arriving somewhere or achieving a certain aim. I see it instead as forward motion, means of evolving, a way to reach continuously toward a better self. The journey doesn’t end.”
How does your work at MDVA help make a difference for Veterans and for creating a welcoming, inclusive community?
I have always been passionate about working with Veterans. I really resonate with the MDVA mission and vision, and believe my values align with our culture. I also believe that my experience and skills allow me to make a significant contribution. My work makes a difference for the Veterans and our community by fostering trust, advocating for Veterans and creating a sense of belonging and caring. It’s important to treat people of all ethnic backgrounds with value and respect.
Cory Westmoreland is a Veterans Program Specialist with our State Soldiers Assistance Program (SSAP). He’s been with the MDVA for more than five years. Cory says he chose MDVA because the work is rewarding. “My time at the MDVA has been amazing. It’s honestly the most fulfilling job I’ve ever had, as we really get to make a difference in Veterans’ lives.”
Why is it important to recognize the Black community's role in American history and culture?
There are many important reasons to recognize the Black community’s role in American history and culture. Two of the most important reasons for me are:
Describe a role model from African American culture and how they influenced you.
Jackie Robinson is a key role model within African American culture. Robinson’s influence extends beyond baseball. His influence on me shows the importance of standing up against injustice. His ability to perform at the highest level while dealing with the challenges of racism inspires me to confront obstacles in my own life with strength and grace. Robinson’s commitment to equality and his advocacy for civil rights, both during and after his baseball career, highlight the importance of using one’s platform to effect change.
In addition to Robinson’s influence on me, I must recognize the impact that my father, Jerald, and my stepmom, Valencia, have had on shaping the person I am today. Their guidance and support instilled in me values of resilience, empathy and hard work. I will forever love and cherish them for that.
How does your work at MDVA help make a difference for Veterans and for creating a welcoming, inclusive community?
My work at the MDVA aims to ensure that all Veterans, regardless of their background, feel valued and supported. The MDVA encourages a culture of respect and appreciation for their service. Overall, our work contributes to a stronger, more inclusive community where every Veteran can thrive.
Razaq Adedayo is the Director of Nursing at the Minnesota Veterans Homes - Minneapolis. He joined the MDVA in 2022 as the Registered Nurse Manager for Building 21-1. Razaq has worked in long-term care since 2007 and was Director of Nursing in several private nursing homes in the Twin Cities before coming to the MDVA. “Given how tasking leadership assignments are in healthcare, particularly in long-term care, I was attracted to MDVA by the promise of work-life balance, vacation time that I spend with family and a robust support system that helps me get the work done.”
Why is it important to recognize the Black community's role in American history and culture?
America is great because of its diversity; there is no nation where so many people from many races, colors or backgrounds feel so connected. Every racial group has contributed greatly to what the U.S. has become today. Uniquely, Black Americans – despite the abhorrent history of slavery and their passage to the Americas – have overcome so many challenges and have turned around the narratives by integrating so well into American society, contributing significantly to American greatness and global influence. For the reason of historical accuracy, it is important to shed light on the crucial role Black Americans play in science, technology, agriculture, education, industry, social justice-and other disciplines, so we can have a more complete narrative. Black American cultural influence in American music, art, literature, fashion, language, etc. is very powerful and positions America as a global leader in all these areas. Most importantly, recognizing Black achievements will provide role models for future generations, honor resilience, creativity and leadership of the Black community and create a truthful representation of American history where everyone’s contribution is recognized and valued.
Describe a role model from African American culture and how they influenced you.
Muhammad Ali is my role model, a powerful cultural icon. He gives me a lot of pride as a Black man, showing what it meant to be authentic. He was not only the greatest boxer of all time, but he was also a symbol of courage, activism and self-determination. He was an inspiration for all athletes with his skills, excellence and confidence. In addition, he used his platform as a three-time world heavyweight champion to speak against racial injustice, supporting the civil rights movement and fearlessly challenging systemic racism while promoting Black pride. He is a symbol of integrity and resistance to oppression. In 1967, Ali sacrificed his career, fame and position for his belief in justice when he refused to be drafted, citing religious and moral beliefs. This cost him boxing titles for nearly five years. Finally, Ali converted to Islam and changed his name from Cassius Clay despite widespread criticism. I am personally inspired by his commitment to his beliefs, representing personal identity and religious freedom at a time when it was most difficult to stand for such values.
How does your work at MDVA help make a difference for Veterans and for creating a welcoming, inclusive community?
As the Director of Nursing at the Minneapolis Veterans Home, I lead a diverse team of caregivers. My job is to harness this unique resource to provide the best care for Veterans. My nurses and nursing assistants are grateful for the resources and support we have from our state government and are highly motivated to provide high quality and safe care. My job mostly is to guide employees through regulatory requirements, show respect for all team members, patients and families, address biases and model cultural competence. By supporting staff and Resident wellbeing and advocating for inclusive policies, we have been able to create a workplace where people feel valued and recognized for their contributions.
