Moody's Alexander Trusty on the importance of commemorating Black History Month

Please introduce yourself and tell us about your role at your organisation.

I’m Alexander Trusty, Global Talent & Inclusion Specialist at Moody’s Corporation, where I’ve been proud to contribute for around four years. My role bridges talent attraction and inclusion efforts, ensuring Moody’s is recognised as a destination for top talent from diverse backgrounds. I focus on employer branding, creating initiatives that highlight Moody’s as a place where employees can thrive, grow, and build fulfilling careers. In addition, I play a key role in organising global hiring events, collaborating with strategic partners, and supporting our Business Resource Groups to foster a culture of belonging and innovation across the organisation.

Were you taught about Black history in school? If not – what difference would this have made to you?

No, I was not taught Black history in my main school education. However, I was fortunate to learn about it during my time at Saturday school, which was a vital educational supplement within Black communities at the time. As I’ve grown older and more curious about my ancestry, culture, and identity, much of my knowledge of Black history has come through self-teaching—a journey driven by the desire to understand my roots and the incredible legacy of Black people.

I deeply wish I had been taught more about Black history in school. Growing up, I often struggled with self-worth and didn’t fully embrace pride in my own skin. Learning about the rich and resilient history of Black people—their achievements, contributions, and the undeniable power they hold—could have fundamentally shaped my confidence and self-love. It would have helped me connect with the strength of those who came before me and inspired me to believe in the greatness we carry, despite the countless stories that have been excluded or erased from mainstream history. Black history is not just history—it’s empowerment, pride, and truth, and every child deserves to have that knowledge.

What does Black History Month mean to you and why do you find it important?

Black History Month means everything to me. While I firmly believe that Black excellence, culture, and history deserve to be celebrated every single day—which is the driving force behind the work I do—I deeply appreciate the significance of having a dedicated month. It’s a powerful reminder to honour the indelible mark Black culture has left on British history and to amplify voices that have too often been overlooked.

It’s a time to unapologetically embrace and celebrate our heritage, especially in a world where far too many forces try to diminish that pride. It’s a chance to connect with our roots, to learn more about ourselves, and to provide others the opportunity to better understand Black experiences—the struggles, the triumphs, and the resilience that define our story.

I truly believe education is the cornerstone of understanding, empathy, and unity. Black History Month offers a platform for voices to be heard, especially those that are often drowned out. It’s also a moment of gratitude—a time to give thanks to those who came before us, who sacrificed so much to pave the way for the opportunities and freedoms we have today.

Above all, it’s a celebration of the extraordinary achievements of Black people, a reminder of the excellence that fuels us, and a source of hope and motivation to keep striving, breaking barriers, and building a brighter future for generations to come.

What suggestions do you have for organisations to mark Black History Month?

Avoid tokenism—don’t settle for hosting a single Black History Month event just for the sake of ticking a box. Dive fully into the celebration, making it meaningful and impactful. Although it’s Black History Month, it’s crucial to encourage people of all backgrounds to get involved, learn, and even contribute to planning events. Black history is not just Black people’s history—it is a vital part of collective history, and inclusion helps foster understanding and solidarity.

Bring energy and joy to your Black History Month celebrations. While it’s important to acknowledge the struggles and challenges faced by Black communities, overemphasising negativity can unintentionally weigh on Black colleagues and dampen the spirit of the month. Instead, focus on creating a space that uplifts, inspires, and celebrates Black culture, achievements, and excellence. Let it be a moment of pride and empowerment, filled with positivity, creativity, and connection.

If you’re a smaller organisation, don’t feel the pressure to go it alone. Partnering with other organisations can enrich the experience, allowing for shared resources, knowledge exchange, and broader impact. Collaboration not only strengthens the message but also builds a stronger sense of community.

Finally, remember that these events don’t need to be led solely by the Black network within your organisation—if you have one. Anyone, regardless of background, can take the lead. Allyship is about stepping up, supporting, and actively contributing to creating opportunities for education, celebration, and growth. Let Black History Month be a spark that ignites lasting change and connection across your organisation.

Why is it important that this month includes Black LGBTQ+ people from across history?

It is vital because Black LGBTQ+ people are not just part of Black history—they are an integral part of history, period. Their contributions, resilience, and brilliance have shaped the world we live in, yet their stories have too often been erased or overlooked. Each intersectionality they embody has faced unique challenges and countless hurdles, but we are at a pivotal moment in time—a moment where we can unapologetically celebrate the fullness of who we are.

Now, more than ever, it is our responsibility to unearth and honour the extraordinary Black LGBTQ+ individuals of the past. Their courage, creativity, and impact deserve to be recognised, remembered, and celebrated. They have contributed not only to the progress of their communities but to the broader tapestry of human history and the interconnected relationships that bind us all.

This is about more than acknowledgement—it’s about reclaiming and amplifying the voices that have been silenced. It’s about inspiring generations to come, ensuring that every person, no matter their race, gender identity, or sexual orientation, knows they belong and that their story matters. Black LGBTQ+ history is a testament to strength, brilliance, and humanity, and it must take its rightful place in the narrative of our shared history.