In honor of Black Business Month, this article celebrates the achievements and contributions of Bishop Colette Matthews-Carter. As an advocate for maternal health awareness and black business owners, Bishop Matthews-Carter has made significant strides in promoting dialogue, action, and equity within the community. Her multifaceted journey as a director, poet, artist, consultant, and influential woman has positioned her as a beacon of inspiration for black entrepreneurs. Let us dive into her remarkable endeavors and the impact she continues to make.
Congratulations on becoming a recipient of numerous leadership awards including the; New York State Senate Woman of Distinction, and the Delta Sigma Theta Marjorie Dowdell Fortitude Award! What does this prestigious recognition mean to you?
Bishop Colette: Thank you. I am always honored and humbled to receive recognition for the work I love to do. My passion for racial and social equity is at the core of my work. At a young age, my parents instilled within me the notion of Dr. King’s “Beloved Community”, and I carry that with me. Any recognition I receive is because of them and for them. To some degree, I feel like I honor their memory and all my ancestors by keeping the idea of equity and justice at the forefront of my life. I believe that “All” people have a right to be treated with dignity regardless of their status or position in life. Giving voice to the voiceless and creating opportunities for formerly oppressed segments of society is about transforming our world into a space of belonging and love. Being recognized for that work is priceless. I am deeply grateful, and I salute all who walk this path.
August is National Black Business Month, please tell our readers about your entrepreneurial work and the services you provide.
Bishop Colette: I describe myself as an Entrepreneurial Spirit. Thanks to my parents, I believe in having more than one stream of income that helps me contribute to my community in various ways. My business ventures include public speaking, DEI consultancy/training, real estate, and thought partnership. I work with clients/organizations who are interested in going to the next growth level. That might look like having a more diverse workplace, motivating a team to complete a project, connecting clients with additional resources, or personal coaching. My business is LEXCO Enterprises Inc. I serve as the President and co-owner.
In addition to being a business owner, you’re a community advocate and civic leader. What does this work entail and how has it benefited your community?
Bishop Colette: The areas of community advocacy for me are social justice/equity, maternal health, and overall health for black/brown communities. In addition, I advocate for children as well as issues that include an anti-poverty agenda. One of the areas I am passionate about is food justice and eliminating hunger. I am extremely proud of my work with the Food Justice Initiative at InterFaith Works where I also serve as the Director of the Center for Dialogue & Action. We have approximately 32 pantries in our network. Last year through this initiative we were able to provide over 29,000 meals to families and children. Our work has been elevated through a recent grant that I received from the Central New York Community Foundation. Through this $75,000 grant, we will be able to expand the program as we elevate this issue in Syracuse, NY.
Please tell us about your journey to become a Bishop.
Bishop Colette: This year I celebrated 27 years in ministry. I was licensed and ordained in the Baptist Church. I was the first woman ordained through the Northeastern District Baptist Association and Tucker Missionary Baptist Church. I’ve pastored three Baptist Churches during my tenure. The journey was filled with highs and lows but worth all of the lessons I’ve learned. I’ve experienced a lot of joy and pain from serving in the pastorate. My journey has taken me all over the world and I’ve been able to touch lives. That’s the best part, seeing lives transformed and changed. In 2018 I received consecration into the bishopric. This elevation was through the Covenant Fellowship of Churches, Inc. CFOC is an ecumenical and independent faith-based organization with a focus on liberation theology (a Christian theological approach that emphasizes the liberation of oppressed groups, with social concerns for the poor and politically disenfranchised persons, while also addressing other forms of inequity).
How would you describe your Black Excellence?
Bishop Colette: For me “Black Excellence” is rooted in the fact that people of the African Diaspora have long been high achievers with success in every area of human life. We are inventors, innovators, business moguls, and leaders in medicine, science, politics, humanities, and engineering. We are curators in the academy, the arts, education, history, and the humanities. We are builders, creators, and the keepers of the oral tradition. Elevating this knowledge is important for current generations so that they will not think our history began as enslaved people. My Black Excellence involves replicating and keeping the legacy of my ancestors alive in my presence, my practice, and my purpose. I am proud of my ancestry, and I carry that into every space that I enter.
What has the summer consisted of and what does the remainder of the year look like for you?
Bishop Colette: This summer has been one of reconnection, discovery, and self-care. I spent time in my happy place which is the ocean. The ocean in all its vastness helps me reconnect to my craft, hear from the divine presence, and rejuvenate my spirit. To this end, I was able to complete a few key events that incorporated empowerment for women and celebrating diverse communities. The rest of this year I am working on the completion of a few projects that involve DEI training and organizational development. In addition, I hope to do some international travel to close the year. Spending more time with family and friends helps me to recharge.
What advice would you have for aspiring black women business owners?
Bishop Colette: Stay the course. Do not give up and keep growing. Growth is realized as we continue to develop knowledge, skills, and professional acumen. Also, make time for self-care and rest. Sometimes as business owners, we get so busy in the grind that we forget to recharge. Harmony is one key to success. Harmony is the unique blend of productivity, peace, solidarity, power, collaboration, and synergy. I wish all my sisters success in both life and business.
In Conclusion:
As we celebrate Black Business Month, it is essential to honor individuals like Bishop Colette Matthews-Carter, whose contributions have helped pave the way for black business owners and advocate for important causes. From her tireless efforts in promoting maternal health awareness to her commitment to empowering black entrepreneurs, Bishop Matthews-Carter embodies the spirit of resilience, determination, and progress. Through her work in the community, the arts, and as a DEI consultant, she continues to foster dialogue, inspire change, and make a tangible impact on the lives of others. It is through the celebration and recognition of remarkable individuals like Bishop Matthews-Carter that we pave the way for continued growth and success in the black business community.
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