Black Women Remain The Unsung Heros Of History Despite Efforts To Undermine Our Political Power [Op-Ed]
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Black women have often been celebrated as a voting block that consistently saves democracy. But love and appreciation for Black women often appear short-lived. When the economy tanks or when people fear the future, Black women are often the targets of animosity and resentment. If Black women dare to raise our voices online in an effort to right a wrong, or in support of a nation that sees and serves all, we are demonized. You don’t have to take our word for it: think of all the content creators who build their platforms off the scapegoating of Black women.
Yet throughout history, Black women have been on the frontlines of movements for change. From voting rights to the fight for public education to campaigns to end mass incarceration, Black women have often raised their voices for the liberation of others. Drawing from a well that has been watered by ancestors such as Ida B. Wells, Fannie Lou Hamer, Ella Baker, and so many others, Black women are often not content to be personally ok: we understand that our liberation is tied to others.
Photo of African American pioneering female journalist Ida B Wells (1862 – 1931), circa 1890s. (Photo by Library of Congress/Interim Archives/Getty Images)
While it may be tempting to be fearful about the future, we take heart knowing that every day, in every community, Black women stand up and speak out in support of the beloved community. This doesn’t mean Black women should be burdened by the inaction of others or taken for granted. Yet we acknowledge the ways in which Black women draw strength from other Black women who refuse to be silent or silenced.
The post Scapegoated Yet Still Leading — Why Black Women Remain Democracy’s Backbone [Op-Ed] appeared first on MadameNoire.
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Tags 9to5 Black Black History Month Efforts Heros History Ida B. Wells Nekima Levy Armstrong OpEd Political Power Racial Justice Network Remain Undermine Unsung Women