OREANDA-NEWS. March 01, 2013. Verizon hosted a statewide Black History Month celebration and open house with government and community leaders at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture.  The event was free and open to the public.

During the open house, guests explored the museum, recognized community innovators, and enjoyed a day full of educational activities and entertainment.  There was food, educational gifts for the first 200 children, laptop door prizes and more.

Guests at this year’s open house included Maryland Senator and President-Elect of the National Black Caucus of State Legislators Catherine Pugh; Maryland Delegate and Chair of the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland Aisha N. Braveboy; Maryland Attorney General Douglas F. Gansler; and Bishop Douglas I. Miles, co-chair of Baltimore United in Leadership Development.  The Baltimore City College Choir also performed during a special recognition program at noon.

“At Verizon, diversity is as much about good business practice as it is the right thing to do,” said Tabb Bishop, Verizon’s vice president of government affairs – Mid-Atlantic region.  “Verizon serves some of the country’s most diverse markets.  So, diversity always has been a part of our culture and an integral part of our business strategy.

“Our long-standing commitment is based on a culture of inclusiveness that leverages the diversity of employees, customers, suppliers and community partners,” Bishop added.  “Black History Month is a great opportunity for us to celebrate and honor those individuals who have made a significant contribution and commitment in the past, and those who continue to make a difference today.”