Sabrina Bailey Reflects on Juneteenth Leadership Panel

“For me, growing up, Juneteenth wasn’t something we celebrated,” Sabrina Bailey said during an HII panel discussion on June 19. “It’s not something that really was focused on in my home until recent years. Now I celebrate it with a new awareness and understanding, reflecting on those who came before me. So many have sacrificed so I can have the opportunities that I have today.”

Bailey, vice president operations in Mission Technologies’ Fleet Sustainment business group, was one of three HII leaders on the panel, along with Dr. Sondia Christian, director of business integration at Ingalls Shipbuilding, and Edmond Hughes, executive vice president and chief human resources officer.

The event was hosted by the African American Shipbuilders Association (AASA) and Visibility through Opportunity, Inclusion, Community and Empowerment (VOICE) employee resource groups.

Asked to recommend a book, Bailey singled out “On Juneteenth” by Annette Gordon-Reed. “It is a very readable book,” she said. “It is not just a book about Juneteenth, African Americans or Texas. It really just tells the story and history of America and diversity in America from such both a personal and historical perspective.”

Bailey concluded by urging employees to “use our voice to use our influence.”

“It does not matter what your title is in the organization,” she said. “You have the opportunity to lift someone up, you have the opportunity to educate yourself, you have the opportunity to represent and to strive and to move forward in both your personal and professional life. … And hey, join an ERG! What a great way to be part of positive change. No matter what ERG you want to affiliate with, join one learn about somebody who’s different than yourself and propel us forward.”

For more information about Mission Technologies’ VOICE ERG, visit xxx.