From Overlooked to Empowered: Centering Black Women in Women's History Month

As we embark on Women's History Month following the commemoration of Black History Month, which did not feel like Black History month on any day in February, we are reminded of the unique intersectionality between these two observances and the potential for their shared experiences to strengthen one another. It is vital that we take the time to reflect on the ways in which Black women have been historically overlooked and marginalized in the fight for equality, and work towards recognizing and amplifying their contributions in a meaningful way.

This year, as we continue to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing struggles for racial justice, the stakes are higher than ever before. We have a unique opportunity to make Women's History Month more effective and impactful than ever before by pushing for systemic reforms that will benefit all women, particularly those who have been excluded or marginalized.

One of the most crucial ways we can achieve this is by centering the voices and experiences of Black women. Despite their key leadership roles in movements for justice and equality, Black women's contributions have often been ignored or dismissed. We must make a commitment to listen to and learn from Black women, elevate their stories and perspectives, and support their leadership in all areas of society.

Additionally, we must acknowledge and address the unique challenges that women, especially women of color, face in the aftermath of the pandemic. Women have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic, working in essential jobs with lower pay and fewer benefits while simultaneously bearing a greater caregiving burden at home. We must advocate for policies and reforms that support women's economic security, such as affordable childcare, paid family leave, and a living wage. Furthermore, we must strive to dismantle the structural racism and sexism that perpetuate inequality and injustice for women of color.

Collectively, we must use Women's History Month as an opportunity to build solidarity across different communities and movements. True equality and justice for women cannot be achieved without addressing the interconnected systems of oppression that affect all marginalized communities. By working together and building coalitions across race, gender, and other identities, we can create a more just and equitable world for all.

Let us not forget the powerful legacy of Black women and the ways in which their struggles and triumphs continue to shape our world today. This moment calls for us to uplift their voices and experiences, push for meaningful reforms, and build a more just and equitable society for all women. If there is no equality for Black women, then there is no equality for ANY woman.

#StrongerTogether #WomenWithoutFear #WomensHistoryMonth #PrettyWomenHustle #WokeAuthorZone