Reimagining the Future: Empowering Black Women and Girls to Lead and Govern

This post is one that I hope is received well by readers. It’s about introducing a new perspective, a new idea, and a way of thinking. I think part of the reason we are where we are currently is, in some way, giving us an opportunity—one that, if we are intentional, can change our future for the better. I believe that 4B is essentially the first step for Black women. I also believe that in order for us to create change, we must begin to think more strategically—even outside the systems within which we operate. As the saying goes, “Insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result.” So why not entertain something new? Why not go beyond what we already know and utilize our minds and skills to pave a new way for our own future and for that of Black women and girls?

The thing is, society has been counting us out for a very long time. I have grown to realize and see the opportunity in this. We don’t need to ask them for things, nor do we need their acceptance. Why should it even be hinged on what they think? At the very least, rather than consulting them about what we need or want and “fighting them for it,” we as women—especially Black women—should start considering a different governing style for ourselves. Even changing the way we view, perceive, and appoint leadership. Having appointed groups that they must converse with—this goes for women in general as well. It’s no good that we continue to rely on someone from an entirely different demographic to understand the needs of women and girls, let alone Black women and girls, or women in general. Since when have they EVER consulted Black women and girls about our own personal needs?

I think part of change indeed starts with us, through our own self-focus—believing that we are the ones who, essentially, can create and have the future we so desire. I know this can seem like a daunting thought, but it really doesn’t have to be. I am wishing every Black woman and girl the very best on their self-care journeys and paths to self-discovery. Here are a few questions to think about along the way: What about our own ideas of organized government for women, where women and girls mandate and govern ourselves, and we consult with each other regarding our own needs and rights? What about the cultivation of safe spaces for women and girls? What do these look like? I think that this has been part of the problem—women and girls not having dedicated spaces to sort through and discuss women-focused topics. There’s so much noise in-between.

Where do you want to see, and how would you like to see, the future for Black women and girls in four years?
What’s next? If you are on your journey, what good is healing if we essentially return to the same unchanged systems?
What are some ideas of what you would like to personally see for your own future as a woman, mom, or girl?
How can you self-focus and focus on supporting other Black women and girls in community to help advance our future?

Anyway, I will be revisting and elaborating a bit more on this topic in future posts. But we would love to hear from you in the comments. 

xo