A commentary on Aging While Black by Raymond Jetson
During Black History Month, we celebrate the profound contributions of Black elders—individuals who, as author Raymond Jetson reminds us, are “too often seen only through the lens of vulnerability, when in truth they are pillars of ingenuity and wisdom.” His insightful work with the Aging While Black initiative challenges us to look past stereotypes and acknowledge the strength, creativity, and resilience that older Black adults continue to embody in every community.
Jetson’s 2025 book, Aging While Black: A Radical Reimaginging of Aging and Race in America, issues a clear call to action: institutions, advocates, and policymakers must recognize not only the inequities that shape the lives of Black elders but also their enduring leadership. This recognition must be paired with intentional strategies that affirm their value and transform the environments in which they age.
He further emphasizes, “I believe one of the greatest opportunities before us today is engaging older adults as resources to respond to many of the challenges impacting communities across the country while simultaneously making space for and listening to the wisdom that is emerging in younger generations.”
As a Certified Senior Advisor and financial literacy educator, I believe one of the most powerful forms of affirmation is access to financial knowledge. Many Black seniors spent a lifetime overcoming systemic barriers—limited access to wealth-building tools, discriminatory lending practices, and unequal earnings opportunities. Today, for Black seniors, financial literacy education serves as both an empowerment tool and a bridge:
- A bridge to confidently navigate retirement decisions
- A bridge to protect their assets and avoid financial exploitation
- A bridge to pass down generational wisdom and financial stability
Financial literacy honors the legacy of Black elders by giving them the information, resources, and support they deserve to thrive at every stage of aging. When we invest in their financial well-being, we strengthen entire families and communities.
This Black History Month, may we uplift not only the stories of the past but the elders who continue to shape our future—ensuring they are seen, heard, and equipped with the tools that affirm their dignity and economic security.
Author Bio:
Dr. Brenda Oldham, Ed.D., CFF, CSA, is the CEO and Owner of RAM Insurance & Financial Services and the Founder of RAM Educational Business Solutions, where she leads initiatives focused on financial literacy education, workforce development, and financial equity for individuals, entrepreneurs, and organizations. Dr. Oldham serves on the Georgia Advisory Board for the Financial Educators Council and is a Business-to-Business Partner Provider with Oakland Thrive in Oakland County, Michigan, where she coaches entrepreneurs and delivers educational workshops to support business growth and sustainability. A sought-after speaker and media contributor, Dr. Oldham has appeared on Detroit’s WJR Radio station as a guest on Ann Thomas’ Women Who Lead weekly radio program. Brenda also hosts the
monthly podcast Rock Your Finances with Dr. Oldham, where she shares practical financial strategies and inspirational insights.
