Black History Month 2025

By Edward Smith, CSM 

On the morning of February 23, 2025, I found myself at a stoplight, becoming irritated with how long the light was taking to change. I was irritated because I was in a rush to pick up my eight-year-old son and my five-year-old daughter so that we could have rap battles in the car while on the way to pick up street tacos. As the light turned green, I accelerated and realized something. In that moment, I had not maintained an “attitude of gratitude.” I wasn’t grateful for the reason we have three light traffic signals in the first place. The three light traffic signal was invented by a Black Man by the name of Garrett Morgan in 1923.

Garrett Morgan had other successful inventions and patents prior to inventing the three light traffic signals. His prior inventions allowed him to afford an automobile. While driving his automobile, he witnessed a tragic vehicle incident which led to him inventing the three light traffic signals as a means to keep “everyone” safe.

Garrett Morgan was the son of an enslaved parent, and he dared to innovate and create things that benefited society is a whole during the roaring 20s, which was a period of time where Black people faced significant discrimination, violence, and barriers that prevented educational, economical, political, and social development. Garrett reportedly had an elementary school education, yet he designed one of the most essential tools which allows us to navigate society safely on a daily basis.

The month of February is almost over. However, Black History is American History, and the historical contributions of the BIPOC community live and thrive 365 days a year.

Garrett Morgan’s invention of the three light traffic signal resonates with me because I’m a safety professional and defensive driving instructor at Goodwill of Colorado. He inspires me to challenge myself, face adversity, innovate and create while being mindful that my cause is greater than myself.

The Goodwill of Colorado Mission is to help people overcome barriers to economic and personal independence through education, training and job placement. Initially, Goodwill hired me as a material handler in 2014. Since then, I’ve served as a forklift operator, Production Lead, Sales Supervisor, Certification and Compliance Specialist, Safety Specialist, Safety Supervisor, Safety Manager, and now Certified Safety Manager. I believed in myself, and Goodwill supported my growth and development.

The universe is always on your side despite what you see in front of you. Believe in your greatness and never let anyone quench your spirit.