Earlier this year, I set out to bring relevant conversations about Black women to a couple of professional forums.

One proposal got rejected outright.

The other, I was wrestling with myself to even start. I lost the steam somewhere between the rejection and the upcoming deadline, and by the time I caught my breath, I chose to let the window close.

Sitting With The Question

For a minute, I sat with the question of why I couldn't bring myself to submit it. I knew it was about something more than disappointment or discouragement. I was also sure it wasn't a verdict on my passion and motivation to discuss the subject matter the emotional abuse of Black women suffered at our own hands as well as those of others. But I couldn't quite put my finger on what it was.

 So I shared the struggle with a colleague, and she helped me see the truer point:  It was a systemic issue, showing its hand in real time.

I am a Black woman vying for a seat at the table, hoping the revelance of a cause (which is even greater than myself) would even be considered — and having to decide if the fight was one I wanted to take on.

Black women's stories don't get handed a stage easily. The delicate, complicated, even contradictory parts — and they do be complicated, full of loopty-loops and back-and-forths don't readily get invited in. Because we aren't identified as an underserved, vulnerable population.

Heck, we don't even consider ourselves as such.

We hurt in silence (until we get big mad after something done happened for the umpteenth time). We cry in the dark. We hide behind masks — yet long for someone to hear us, to see us. So we present as bold and independent instead?!!??

MY DESIRE is for us to have these conversations, individually and collectively, before the distress. 

Before the all-out crisis. Because baby, by the time we come to terms with the fact that something is wrong, all hell has already broken loose.

What I Need From You

So here's what I need to happen. As I continue to bring research, studies, and information directly to you, don't get too busy to be curious. Take in the information. Ask yourself how you can proactively apply it to your life. And share it.

Basically, I need you to keep showing up as you have been. But not just for me. Because I can get discouraged out here in these mental wellness streets too.

I need you to CONSCIOUSLY keep showing up for you. 

P.S. You might be eligible for a few free EAP sessions with me if (1) you are employed by one of these organizations (2) reside in the state of North Carolina. CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE LIST

Please email me at [email protected] to confirm your eligibilty.