On behalf of the City of Pittsfield, Mayor Pete Marchetti officially presented a proclamation declaring June 14th as “Blackshires Leadership Accelerator Day.” This distinguished recognition underscores the significant community impact and exceptional contributions made by the Blackshires Leadership Accelerator in fostering leadership and economic empowerment among Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC).
A Celebration of Empowered Leadership
In the official proclamation, Mayor Marchetti highlighted the Blackshires Leadership Accelerator’s dedicated service to Pittsfield, emphasizing its role in cultivating visionary leaders deeply committed to community development. Through comprehensive initiatives in leadership training, civic engagement, entrepreneurship, and sustainable community-building, the program has significantly enhanced the city’s social and economic landscape.
Advancing Equity and Inclusion
Central to the Blackshires Leadership Accelerator’s mission is the pursuit of equity, justice, and inclusivity. Mayor Marchetti praised the program for its unwavering commitment to developing leaders who tirelessly advocate for sustainable change and actively dismantle systemic barriers. These empowered leaders embody the essence of compassionate, informed, and collaborative leadership.
Catalyzing Sustainable Change
Graduates and affiliates of the Blackshires Leadership Accelerator have emerged as influential catalysts for positive community-driven transformation. Their collective efforts have strengthened community partnerships, encouraged innovative solutions, and contributed to equitable economic growth, significantly enriching Pittsfield’s community resilience and prosperity.
An Invitation to Community Recognition
The proclamation of June 14th as “Blackshires Leadership Accelerator Day” goes beyond symbolic recognition—it calls upon all Pittsfield residents to actively celebrate and acknowledge the transformative achievements of the accelerator’s leaders. Mayor Marchetti encourages community members to recognize this day as a celebration of what can be accomplished through intentional leadership and collective action.
Building a Legacy of Impact
This proclamation complements an impressive legacy of accolades already earned by the Blackshires Leadership Accelerator, including a three-time recipient of the Urban Agenda Grant and the prestigious 1Berkshire Trendsetter Award for “Breaking the Mold.” With over 40 graduates, more than $100,000 in fellowship grants awarded, and extensive leadership resources provided, the accelerator continues to deepen its meaningful impact across the Berkshires.
As we mark June 14th as Blackshires Leadership Accelerator Day, we reaffirm our commitment to cultivating transformative leadership dedicated to creating lasting equity and inclusive empowerment within our community.
Celebrate with us on June 14th and support continued community transformation through the Blackshires Leadership Accelerator.
