In early February we asked Public Storage employees to help us celebrate Black History Month by sharing stories about their loved ones, the impact and contributions they made in various fields, and what it means to them. Our employees understood the assignment and delivered.  

Stories from across the company came pouring in and each week we selected one to feature companywide. 

Here’s a recap of some of those incredible stories.  

Stacey, a KTP in Ohio

Proudly shared that her grandfather was an extraordinary athlete. He was inducted in the prestigious Ohio Association of Track and Cross-Country Coaches in 1979. He ran on a mile relay team that shattered records and won the Chicago National High School Meet. Although the school no longer exists, its legacy lives on through their national title and a record that remains unbroken to this day. 

Ebony, Property Manager in Georgia

Ebony gushed over how her younger sister, a Technical Sergeant, was part of the first all-Black flight crew that flew on the presidential Air Force One from Joint Base Andrews, Maryland to Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina in February 2021. The crew made history and paid tribute to Black History in Aviation and the Air Force. Her sister served in the U.S. Air Force since 2008 and served on Air Force One for three presidents! 

Tish, a Property Manager in Texas

Tish’s dad started working for Southwestern Bell in 1969 as a cable splicer’s helper in Dallas, Texas. This was before the acquisition of Southwestern Bell and AT&T.

“My dad was one of the first African American men to be sponsored by Southwestern Bell.” she shared.

At that time, the company offered a special training program for high school seniors. Those who qualified after the training period were offered a full-time position with the company. After her father completed his year of training, he became a full-time employee as a cable splicer. And shortly after he was promoted to supervisor. He developed several safety training videos for the company and was well known for his leadership.

As a diverse and inclusive company, it’s important for us to recognize and appreciate the rich tapestry of Black History. The month-long celebration allowed us to learn more about each other and amplify stories that make employees proud of their family’s legacy. Through these narratives, we were reminded of the resilience, creativity, and brilliance that have defined the Black experience throughout history.