The diversity committee of submarine tender USS Emory S. Land (AS 39) organized and held a Black History Month event at the Naval Base Guam Theater, Feb. 24.

Various Sailors spoke, presented, read poetry, shared experiences, and sang to commemorate the history, struggles, and accomplishments of black Americans of the past and present.

"I share this experience not to place blame or judgment, but to acknowledge why we have made great strides as a nation and people," said Lt. Takana Jefferson, a Navy chaplain during a presentation. "There is still work that needs to be done. There is a knowledge that needs to be shared, which is why diversity committees and celebrations like these are so much-needed."

Chief Yeoman Angela Williams, chairman of the command's diversity committee, said the event could not have been possible without the support of her shipmates within the committee and other volunteers from the command.

"The whole purpose of our committee is to bring awareness to different cultures," said Williams. "Each month has a theme. For example, March is Women's History Month, April is Holocaust Remembrance, and May is Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. We hope to have events like this every month."

Senior Chief Logistics Specialist Thea Hernandez, command climate specialist, said part her job is to bring awareness to diversity and special observances.

"We hold these events to have fun learning about different heritages," said Hernandez. "The diversity committee is diverse themselves, which is an example itself of how far we have come as a Navy. With each observance, we will try to bring something new and allow Sailors to bring out their creativity."

Emory S. Land, homeported in Guam, provides maintenance, hotel services, and logistical support to submarines and surface ships in the U.S. 5th and 7th Fleet areas of operations.

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