Blacks In Government

Blacks In Government, Inc. (BIG) is a non-profit organization established in 1975 by a group of African American employees at the Department of Health, Education and Welfare (now the Department of Health and Human Services) in Rockville, Maryland. It was formally incorporated under the District of Columbia jurisdiction in 1976.

Purpose and Mission

The organization serves as an advocate for equal opportunity and professional development for African American government employees. Its mission is to promote equity, excellence, and opportunity in all aspects of American life, particularly focusing on public service. BIG functions as an employee support group, community resource, and advocacy group, working across municipal, state, and federal government levels.

Activities and Programs

Blacks In Government engages in various activities to achieve its objectives:

• Professional Development Training: BIG hosts an annual training conference, initiated in 1978, which brings together experts, policymakers, administrators, and grassroots leaders to address critical workplace and community issues affecting government employees. This conference focuses on professional development and career advancement, enhancing the skills and talents of its members.

• Youth Development Programs: BIG conducts two main youth programs annually:

  • Training in Communications Program: Designed for high school students (grades 9-12), this program helps acquire essential communication skills for success in the workplace. It also provides mentorship from BIG members.
  • Information Superhighway Student Competition: This program encourages interest in computer sciences among high school students, helping them develop computer skills. Participants are awarded computers and scholarships for demonstrating expertise through web presentations.

Organization Structure

Blacks In Government has over 230 chapters across the United States, highlighting its widespread presence and influence. BIG operates as a volunteer membership-driven association, relying on community involvement and support from its chapters to fulfill its mission.

Tax Status

BIG is designated as a 501(c)3 organization, meaning donations to it are tax deductible. It falls under the category of Public, Society Benefit — Multipurpose and Other, focused on government and public administration (NTEE classification).

Historical Context

BIG was initially established to address racially related workplace issues faced by African American civil servants. Over time, it expanded to address similar challenges at the state, county, and municipal levels, becoming a national response to these shared concerns. The organization continues to play a vital role in promoting equity and excellence in public service and advocating for opportunities for African Americans in government roles.

[1] https://19january2021snapshot.epa.gov/sites/static/files/2019-03/documents/big_synopsis.pdf [2] https://www.pointsoflight.org/awards/blacks-in-government/ [3] https://www.hhswdc.org [4] https://career.mercy.edu/organizations/blacks-in-government/ [5] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/521167784