Jamira Burley’s Post

There are so many sobering statistics about Black women from maternal mortality rates: 49.5 deaths per 100,000 live births for Black women, compared to 19 for White women, 16.9 for Hispanic women, and 13.2 for Asian women, the workforce, Black women make up 1.6% to 2% of the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) workforce, to crime, Black women were six times more likely to be murdered than white women, with a rate of 11.6 per 100,000 compared to 3 per 100,000. Between 2014 and 2020, the homicide rate for Black women aged 25–44 increased by 73%. All of this and so much more serves as a reminder that progress is being made, but too often Black women are denied the benefits of progress or made to wait. With attacking DEI becoming a new hobby and sport, it is more vital than ever to celebrate and support Black women. The world is a beautiful place and it is especially beautiful when Black women thrive.

There was a time when I felt things were moving forward. We had not reached any measure of equity or equality, but it seemed we were moving in the right direction. Now? I have a hard time believing we are doing anything other than moving backward FAST. Many of my black female colleagues are more pessimistic now than they have ever been. Seeing what happens in workplaces, public spaces, everywhere that someone like me gets to waltz into without a second thought I am dismayed. I am scared for them too. And I am scared for us white folk. If we don't protect access for marginalized groups, we lose out. We as white people are increasingly cutting ourselves off from valuable insights, wisdom, education, creativity, innovation, compassion..... BUT IF THEY HAVE MORE..... I started adult life as an economist and there is nothing more frustrating to me than the pervading belief that someone else can only win if I lose. That is simply not true. People with money spend money. People with jobs contribute to society's piggy bank (taxes), people with the ability to compete on a level playing field are likely to be healthier, happier, and make a difference which in turn means that more money goes and stays in the piggy bank. Which is good for all of us. And that is just the start... And I am sure someone will point to some outliers/exceptions/stellar examples of black people making it. Has anyone read the statistics on billionaires recently? # in the world >3000 # black billionaires < 20 # black women billionaires 2 And let's not examine the US prison system... Need more stats? Check out the The Racial Equity Institute There are so many statistics that support the claim that black and brown people are way behind white people in terms of health, wealth and opportunity. What do you think? White people, what action shall we take? #racialequity #racialjustice NCPMI Daughters of the American Revolution

Today, I'm compelled to address a deeply ingrained issue that plagues our society: the continuous disrespect towards Black women and the persistent disbelief they face when they courageously step forward to share their experiences. It's a harrowing reality that despite being pillars of strength within our communities, Black women are too often met with skepticism and dismissal. This pattern of disbelief not only undermines the credibility of Black women but also perpetuates a harmful cycle of silence and invisibility. When Black women are brave enough to speak out about instances of abuse, harassment, or discrimination, their voices are frequently drowned out by skepticism, victim-blaming, or outright denial. This lack of validation not only compounds the trauma they've endured but also sends a chilling message to other survivors: your truth doesn't matter. We cannot turn a blind eye to the systemic biases and stereotypes that contribute to this egregious injustice. Black women face intersecting forms of oppression based on their race and gender, which compound the challenges they encounter when seeking justice and recognition for their experiences. The intersections of racism and sexism create unique barriers that hinder Black women from being believed, respected, and supported. It's essential that we confront these uncomfortable truths and actively work to dismantle the structures that perpetuate the marginalization of Black women. We must start by actively listening to their voices, amplifying their stories, and affirming their experiences. Believing Black women isn't just a slogan—it's a fundamental commitment to justice, empathy, and equality. As a community, we must stand in solidarity with Black women, offering them the unwavering support and validation they deserve. We must challenge ourselves and others to interrogate our own biases, confront our privilege, and actively dismantle the systems of oppression that perpetuate the erasure and disrespect of Black women. Together, let's create a world where Black women are not only heard and believed but also valued, respected, and celebrated for their resilience, strength, and unwavering contributions to our communities. #BelieveBlackWomen #SupportBlackWomen #EndDisrespect"

On this last day of Black History Month and just in time for Women's History Month, I am reminded that progress is defined by individual experience and not a one size fits all. Let's consider the cultural philosophy of work. For instance, Black women have always worked. Our ancestors were enslaved for labor. Our culture teaches Black girls to be educated, independent, and self-sufficient. We had to be able to provide for ourselves and our children in case our Black men were taken from us through lynching or imprisonment. Even when we were able to stop working outside the home, laws were passed making it illegal for us not to work. My grandmother was the help for an affluent white family until the mid-70s. Fast forward to the feminist movement. White women no longer wanted to be stay-at-home wives/mothers financially dependent on their men. With the help of Black women, they fought for the right to work outside the home among other things. Present day, I understand the popularity of Brene, Robin, and Mel because other white women can see themselves in these women. On the other hand, most Black women are unimpressed because we have been there, done that, and negative results vary. Not to mention, some of the written work was appropriated from the Black woman experience. Advice for Black women when these books are recommended: 1. Consider the source, including who recommends the reading. 2. Apply the nuance of your cultural experience. Don't try to fit in. Make the information fit you. 3. Eat the meat, spit out the bones. Apply what works for you, discard what doesn't. 4. Remember culture/race will always diversify womanhood. 5. Women are not a monolith. Sometimes, they are not talking to us.

I resonate with this post by Marilyn Mosby about the disrespect faced by Black woman in male dominated industries. As a black female General Contractor, the struggle of being overlooked, delayed, and dismissed while others are prioritized is a familiar experience. As Black women in male-dominated industries, our intelligence and strength are often overlooked. However, our perseverance will break the bias that holds us back. Together, we must support each other to pave the way for future generations of women in male dominant industries. #womeninconstruction #generalcontractor #blackwomen

'I didn't like Diana Abbotts political views anyway' Thats what I heard from someone when discussing the comments from Frank Hester! The Conservative party’s biggest donor told colleagues that looking at Diane Abbott makes you “want to hate all black women” and said the MP “should be shot” These comments have sparked significant conversation, serving as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by black women in society. While some may dismiss the significance of these comments, focusing on personal opinions about Diana Abbott or political affiliations, it's crucial to recognise the broader implications of such rhetoric. Hester's words are not just disgusting violent comments about a woman of colour, they are a mirror reflecting the systemic issues of misogyny and racism that pervade our society. This incident underscores a harsh reality: black women are often subjected to a dual burden of discrimination, where gender and race intersect to amplify the injustices they face. The reaction to Hester's comments is a litmus test for our collective societal values. It begs the question: Do we passively accept this as the norm, or do we take a stand against the ingrained prejudices that continue to marginalise and silence black women? This isn't about which political party one supports; it's about recognising and addressing the pervasive inequalities that affect the lives of many. As professionals, leaders, and members of a global community, we have a responsibility to challenge and dismantle the structures of misogyny and racism. Silence and inaction only serve to perpetuate these issues. We must engage in open and honest discussions, educate ourselves and others and push for change in our institutions and communities. In the spirit of progress and unity, I encourage all of us to not only speak out against misogyny and racism, but to actively contribute to building an inclusive and equitable society. Together, we can turn the tide and ensure that the words and experiences of black women are heard, valued and respected. #DiversityAndInclusion #SocialJustice #Equality #Leadership #Community #womensupportingwomen #violenceagainstwomen

FYI, for those of you who are not aware, Black people are being massacred daily.  These deaths are both physically and mentally destructive.  The attacks to destroy us are systematically laced in corporate cultural systems that were never designed to include us.  This particular attack on Black Women in the business community has occurred frequently enough to have anthropological research performed to name it:    PET TO THREAT!    If you have ever participated, witnessed, or experienced in this occurrence in your professional career, take some time to ponder your involvement, your response, or lack thereof. May your hearts recognize people, as people. 

In case you missed Part 2 of Beyond Politeness: The Veiled Aggression of White Women and Its Impact on Black Women. You can read it here: https://lnkd.in/gJpgMh-A Any conversation about race is about power. If white women are going to connect with Black women in meaningful ways they are going to have to redefine their relationship with power. After reading part 2 of my blog, if you want to examine your relationship with power and race through coaching, you can book a Discovery Call with Nneka here https://lnkd.in/gYF-_s-C to learn more about her coaching philosophy and approach.

Post-Election Reflections: The Weight and Beauty of Being a Black Woman It’s been a week since the election, and a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions has been on my mind. I held onto hope—hope for change, for progress, for a world where women, especially Black women, could have a voice and representation at the highest levels. But the reality of where we are reminds me that this country may not yet be ready for a woman president, and certainly not a Black woman president. It’s disheartening when you consider the pivotal role Black women play in mobilizing change, in driving voter registration, and yet, here we are, again. I’m aligned with those who say we are done carrying the weight of this society on our backs. The continuous cycle of being relied upon, only to be gaslit and dismissed, feels unsustainable. We are applauded for our resilience, but rarely are we offered the rest or recognition we need and deserve. Being a Black woman is both beautiful and exhausting. We navigate so much, placating for the masses while trying to make space for our own needs. And let’s be real—there are those who admire our strength and mannerisms, yet feel “threatened” when we set boundaries. So, as a reminder: Black women deserve rest. We deserve spaces to honor our own needs, without the pressure to always hold others up. Our strength is not a stool for others to step on. It’s time for genuine allyship that respects our boundaries and values our humanity. Signed, A Very Black Woman 🖤 #BlackWomenDeserveRest #RepresentationMatters #ElectionReflections

Let’s lay it out plain for what Black women truly need in the workplace: 1. Talk To Us Nice: Respect and kindness aren't just pleasantries; they're non-negotiables. It's about the way our presence is acknowledged, our voices heard, and our dignity upheld. Every interaction is a testament to our value. 2. Talk About Us Nice: Behind closed doors, in meetings where decisions are made, advocate for us. Our talents and abilities should be your bragging rights. Introduce us, make room for us, and watch us excel. 3. Get Out Of Our Way: Remove the barriers, stop the sabotage. Our journey is already uphill; don't be another hurdle we have to jump. It’s time for a real talk: What has happened to you? No more silence! If we don't start calling out bad behavior, how will workplaces transform to genuinely support Black women? Share your experiences, and let's push for a change that's overdue! #BlackWomenAtWork #Advocacy #Respect #ProfessionalGrowth #TrillMBAShow #WeAllWeGot