From Labor to Liberation: Black Women and the Harsh Realities of Self-Preservation

 

Another issue worth addressing is the tendency of many Black men to prioritize white women and other white-adjacent women as their romantic preferences. If these women are their preferences, why aren’t they calling on them for aid, help, and support? What does this say about Black men? I’ll wait…

It’s interesting that Black men are currently advocating for “unity” while simultaneously benefiting from the labor of Black women. This is a major issue that continues to loom in the so-called “Black community”—and I use quotes because it seems to me that the only group consistently doing the majority of the work has been Black women.

Pay attention to those who may share our complexion but do not share our mindset. It’s a harsh truth that some Black women still find challenging to face. However, for Black women to move forward, we must confront this reality: “All skinfolk ain’t kinfolk.” Ask yourself: Has there ever been a time when Black men have actively supported the collective advancement of Black women in society?

The behavior and public betrayal of Black men, often at the expense of Black women, cannot be ignored. From their roles in homes to the abandonment of children, the aftermath is an unfortunate mess. These same men demand the title of “Kings” without demonstrating real kingship or accountability. What protections are they advocating for right now that aim to support Black women and girls? Can you name any organization specifically dedicated to the safety and protection of Black women and girls?

Look no further than social media, and you’ll find countless videos of Black men publicly disrespecting Black women and girls, all while aligning themselves with everyone except Black women. Now, suddenly, we’re supposed to believe that since Black women have “tapped out,” we are now “standing on business together”? Now that Black women are exhausted, Black men—who have rarely done the work and, when they do, often align with their “preferences” rather than Black women—are suddenly united with us?

And don’t let it be missed: they will gaslight Black women in the name of “unity.” Black men’s alliance and behavior are VERY shifty, and it’s dangerous when Black women are essentially seeking positive peace and change. It’s time for Black women to face the harsh realities of self-preservation. It’s also time for Black men to figure things out for themselves. The time is up for Black men benefiting from the labor of Black women only to ride off into the sunset with their preferences, while also refusing to give back to the community. That era is over. It’s time for Black women to benefit from our own works and efforts.

Why aren’t we normalizing pouring into other Black women and girls? At least when you align with other women, growth happens. Things that both women can benefit from happen. What happens when we replicate this and set this standard among other Black women and girls? Magic, growth, even more opportunity and innovation. Why aren’t we taking more of a chance on other women versus men? As women, we know what we need to support each other, and it’s even more important that we protect that bond among ourselves.

When people show you who they are, believe them. The irony is that those they “preferred” are now seeking Black women for support. These are just my thoughts and observations based on what’s happening in the world. I will also be discussing this more in future posts, however, Please feel free to share your thoughts below.