The Tax on Black Women in Leadership
Recently, nINA hosted a compelling conversation as part of our Community of Practice CHOIR series. The discussion, titled "The Tax on Black Women in Leadership," illuminated the unique challenges faced by Black women in leadership roles. Against the backdrop of National Minority Health Month, the conversation expanded beyond health disparities to encompass how the work place is impacting Black women's well-being and leadership.
Even before assuming leadership roles, Black women encounter pervasive challenges that significantly shape their experiences and opportunities. nINA referenced research, including Georgetown University's 'Girlhood Interrupted,' which sheds light on the disparities in how Black girls are perceived and treated compared to their white counterparts. The report reveals disturbing findings, such as: Black girls are often deemed to need less nurturing, protection, support, and comfort, while being perceived as more independent. These unfair and harmful attributions contribute to disparities in treatment and opportunities for Black girls.
Hosted by nINA Director, Alia Stevenson, the panelists including, Jacquelyn Boggess (nINA Director), Jasmia Hamilton (nINA Affiliate), and special guest Dana Pellebon (Executive Director of RCC Sexual Violence Resource Center), shared personal and professional experiences and insights into the systemic biases and cultural complexities that contribute to the "tax" on Black women's leadership. From Dana’s political perspective to Jacquelyn’s reflections on her tenure as an executive director and Jasmia’s insights on education, the conversation underscored the multifaceted challenges Black women face in professional settings. Referencing a previous conversation, Jasmia stated,
“It isn’t simply that black women are being mistreated, we built a system around it where it is okay for Black women to be dragged through the trenches and still expected to be whole.”
The discussion continued into the critical importance of addressing biases within both workplaces and communities. Participants stressed the significance of utilizing literature, storytelling, and intentional initiatives to challenge detrimental narratives and advance equity for Black women and girls. Jacquelyn aptly articulated this, stating,
“If we complicate the conversation, we’re not just asking people to focus on us. We’re asking people to focus on place and oppression in the United States and that elevates everyone.”
Additionally, personal anecdotes, such as the challenges related to hair care, served to underscore the daily cultural nuances that Black women navigate, often overlooked in mainstream settings.
Throughout the conversation, the theme of sisterhood and support emerged as crucial. Sisterhood spaces provide understanding and solidarity, offering respite from environments that may lack empathy and recognition of Black women's unique challenges. However, sustaining momentum for change requires collective action, including education, advocacy, and allyship.
“Even when they don’t like the truth, even if it means that (you) lose people… What’s more important is equity, and that there is access..”.
"The Tax on Black Women in Leadership" conversation calls for actionable steps towards systemic change. It invites individuals and organizations to educate themselves, challenge biases, foster inclusive spaces, and actively support Black women in leadership positions. By amplifying voices, dismantling harmful narratives, and promoting equity, we can collectively contribute to a more just and inclusive society.
Let's commit to uplifting and empowering Black women leaders. Together, we can create a future where every Black woman thrives without compromise, contributing her full potential to our collective success.
Join the conversation. Take action. Stand in solidarity.
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