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Tell us a little bit about yourself and your work.
“I am Dr. Stephanie Lockhart – Pettaway, I am a clinical psychologist with a Doctorate from the California School of Professional Psychology, and I have a master’s degree in Social Welfare from UCLA. I’ve had a private practice since 2012, first in Riverside, but we moved the office to Rancho in 2016. I’ve been a local resident of Rancho Cucamonga since 2007. I help adults and teens experiencing mental health challenges that include panic and anxiety, depression, phase of life challenges and transitions, identity and self-development, multicultural and diversity concerns, grief, and interpersonal challenges.”
What does Black History Month mean to you? Why is it important?
“Black History Month is a wonderful idea because it’s a format that allows people to pay attention to African Americans and the contributions they’ve made in the world. Of course the hope is that we wouldn’t have to have a month, that it would be integrated completely, but I think it really helps people to understand black America outside of slavery.”
Why is it important to support and celebrate black culture?
“Many times black culture has been dismissed or purposefully not noted in history, and so it’s important to put a focus on black culture’s contributions and how much it is interwoven in American culture.”
What is the importance of inclusion in the workplace?
“For my business in particular, it’s really important that we have a diverse group of clinicians, front desk staff, etc. We have diverse perspectives for our clients, and no rigid viewpoints on how to deal with a particular concern. It allows for phenomenal thinking, creative thinking.”
How can people of other races be an ally to black progress?
“An ally in general wants to be really involved – it’s not just giving someone a pat on the back. It’s really about promoting progression for everyone... It’s important for all of us. Educating themselves, listening, recognizing that different people need different things, and just being available to help. We’re not asking for extra special help, just for equity and the same inclusion and participation for everyone.“
What progress have you seen for black Americans in your lifetime?
“For me, I’ve seen an increase in awareness for black professionals. When I was younger it was about the entertainer and the athlete (and we love them) but I’ve been able to see more variety of persons like president and vice-president but also in media – leading characters like the doctor, surgeon, lawyer – even if it’s a comedy, I have been able to see an evolution in how we’re represented.”
What advice would you give to other black business people?
“The advice I’m still trying to give myself – I would say that there is so much pressure to succeed and not show a need for help. Sometimes we’re not reaching out and saying that we need assistance – we’re not saying that we need help to build our business, expand, and network. Recognize that there needs to be community in business as well. It’s one of the reasons that I joined the Chamber – just to get out of my little bubble.”
What further progress would you like to see for black Americans in business?
“I would say continued expansion and growth. I want to see black businesses evolve, scale, and grow into stronger community influences. Bigger businesses can help to create more jobs, and they have power to create change in communities.”
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