Cole: April is Black Women’s History Month. Who would you celebrate that may not always be recognized but play a vital role in your life? Haynes: I am particularly grateful for the numerous Black women who have been like second mothers, most of whom are or were members of my beloved Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. These ‘older/wiser’ women are on speed dial in my phone. I call them frequently and they are quick to give me a ‘guidance’ call.
Cole: What do you think are the biggest challenges facing the community today, and how do you see ways to overcome them? Haynes: I believe some of our biggest community challenges include poor and inequitable public education, economic disparity, and the lack of a secure financial foundation from which to take risks. We also lack broadcast media ownership and have insufficient representation in public policy decisions. I am fortified by the extraordinary things being accomplished by the people and nonprofits in our community working tirelessly on these challenges. What’s more, I am fortunate to work with and on behalf of so many of these incredible people and organizations. The list of fantastic community organizations that I interact with most include Montbello Organizing Committee and all their partner organizations, Metro DEEP, RootED, CHIC, FaithBridge, Sistah Biz, the BRIC Fund, and of course, the work of the Colorado Black Chamber of Commerce. It must be noted that key to these organizations’ success is the ongoing investments made by forward thinking foundations and individuals.
Cole: As an African American woman leader, what do you consider to be one of the most difficult obstacles you’ve faced?
Haynes: Being Black and a woman are the most difficult obstacles.
Cole: What do you see your legacy looking like?
Haynes: A year ago, I might have had a quick answer to this question, but today, after spending this last year as a member of Cohort Two of The Highland Project ( thehighlandproject.org ) exploring this very question - but expanded out seven generations - I have come to believe legacies are determined by others after you are gone.
Photo: McBoat Photography
12 The Acumen
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