This article in EBONY Media Magazine by Keyaira N. Boone is a whole word. In the article, Boone provides examples of how Black women in leadership often don't have the same power and resources as their non-Black and non-female peers. I remember doing an exercise about power when I was a senior leader at an org wide retreat. Folks pushed back about my perceived power in the organization, saying I had way more power than most. It was if they truly believed that having positional power would erase what it means to be a Black women in America. I think what the team was responding to was the fact that I *did* have positional power. Society has indoctrinated all of us that Black women like me are subordinate and should not have power. I believe a lot of the team's reactions and beliefs about my positional power were about subconscious beliefs that someone like me didn't deserve to have any power. Being a Black woman leader still comes with the scrutiny, hyper-surveillance, micro-agressions, and harsh discrimination. In the rooms with the most power, the way those with the most socialized power will come at Black women would steal your breath. Often these actions are done in the dark, with little protection for Black women. There are few allies in these rooms - and those who would claim to be allies often fall silent in these rooms were racialized harm happens. Gaining positional power can also mean losing some sense of community, as you become part of the powers that be. I remember feeling like I couldn't fully participate in Black affinity spaces anymore. It can be very isolating. And it can feel like no one has your back. In these moments, I remember the words of Minda Harts, who said on a panel, "It was Black women who saved me." I hope all Black women remember that we can have each other - even when we're in different workspaces. Because sometimes we're all we've got.
Amen to your message dear sister and remain strong in knowing that God has placed all the power in you that is needed. He is your protector and provider. Don’t shy from engaging with your community for they need to see and hear you. Positions of leadership are lonely places however, you’re not alone so keep your head up and the spirit of God has you covered all around. No weapon formed against you will prosper.
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Experiencing these challenges firsthand has often left me feeling isolated. Keyaira N. Boone's piece in EBONY Media Magazine eloquently illuminates the obstacles encountered by Black women in leadership roles. It's imperative that we recognize and actively work to rectify these disparities, fostering a more inclusive environment where everyone has equitable opportunities.
Wow. Such an eloquent and relatable response to this article.
Ase. Black Women Save. All the time. Every time. Thankful for you. Thankful for my circle.
Co-Founder & Chief Program Officer, Empact Work
7mo“Being falsely empowered and propped up as sacrificial scapegoats is part of our daily lives. We were never afforded the access and autonomy we were supposed to get with the next level.” Wow 😳 I wish I knew less people who have had this experience, but here we are, self included, perfectly described by a writer who has never met us. Love the antidotes from the article because they are easy to implement if we genuinely want to change the status quo.