BATTLE CREEK, Mich. –
Sabrina Young
Property Disposal Specialist with environmental duties
Battle Creek, Michigan
Describe your job in a sentence or two. I am a property disposal specialist, with environmental duties in the Pathway to Career Excellence Program (PaCE). We carry out all the processes of disposal and surplus property.
How long have you worked for the federal government including military service? I have worked for the federal government for eight years, five years in the Army and Army Reserves, and three years as a civilian worker.
How long have you worked for DLA Disposition Services? Just over three years
What is your favorite thing about your line of work? Providing support for the warfighter and our country.
What is the best piece of advice someone has given you? Stay focused. There will always be challenges, but the rewards are greater. You can’t do everything, but whatever you do, do it well.
What do you think about when you hear “Black History Month?” I think about the perseverance, strength, and accomplishments of Black people. The history of surviving and thriving through the traumatic hardships; in the pursuit of a greater tomorrow.
The theme for this month's observance is “The Black Family: Representation, Identity, and Diversity.” In your words, briefly explain what this means to you? I am a representation of my past, present, and future; “see me” and not the stereotypes. My identity is complex but should not be feared. Like a quilt, we are diverse and tightly woven with intricate details.
Tell us something unique about your heritage or country of origin. Juneteenth, Friday, June 19th, commemorates the day in 1865 when over 250,000 enslaved Black people of Texas, at last, learned slavery had been abolished and that they were free. Slavery had been abolished in the Confederate States through the Emancipation Proclamation issued January 1, 1863, by President Abraham Lincoln, two and a half years prior. The Thirteenth Amendment of 1865 abolished slavery in America.
What is one thing you’d like others to know about your heritage? There are many little-known facts about the heritage of Black people. Often times they are overlooked, and more common stories are told year after year. Take the time to discover the lesser-known factual stories. My grandfather lived until the age of 105. I would brush his silver hair while he patiently told his life story. Being a small child, I was more enamored by the glistening of his hair and did not appreciate the vastness of his words. I thought that sparkle was because of me. Perhaps it was in part, but later I would know it was tears that he dared not let fall. He wanted me to understand the volume of his victory for our family.
Why is it important to you that we celebrate Black History Month? Black history is American history. There is a vast richness in Black history. These facts are not common in our history books. Celebrating Black History Month establishes a specific time to recognize, educate and inform us of the footprints of Black people.
Name your favorite/recent book(s) you have read. A Promise Land by Barack Obama, It Worked For Me by Colin Powell, The Carpenter by Jon Gordon
What was your first job? I was employed by a Summer Youth Employment Program as an office assistant. I worked at the community recreation center.
What did you want to be when you grew up? Funny, as it seems now, I wanted to be an international spy or a nun. Since a young age, I’ve recognized my passion to give and serve.
Who is your hero? My grandfather was better known as “Big Daddy.” He left a lasting imprint on my mind.
What is your favorite quote? “The ties that binds us are stronger than the occasional stresses that separates us.” - Colin Powell