Take a second and think about all the women with significant meaning in your life. The ones who raised you or kept you out of trouble. Maybe those who gave you advice or squeezed you extra tight with a hug right before you were about to burst. Now, take another second and think about all of them who are Black.
You’ll probably get goosebumps at the thought because Black women have worked extra hard at making you who you are. Having a hand at birthing societal trends can be exhausting. Add everyday activities on top of just being amazing, and there isn’t time left to be celebrated. For those who are looking for the way to uplift the special Black women in your circle, here’s what you can do:
Send Words of Encouragement to a Black Woman
While we are living in a digital world, it’s been hard to give that physical touch or encouragement in person. The next best thing is to use that phone that is constantly in your hands. You’re bound to think about one Black women you haven’t seen or talked to in a while. Grab your phone and send a text. Comment on Facebook or Instagram or send an email.
You never know. Your words might just brighten someone’s day. It’s the thought that counts.
Read a Book Written by a Black Woman
Some of the greatest writers of all time are Black women. Lorraine Hansberry gave us A Raisin in the Sun. Zora Neale Hurston gave us Their Eyes Were Watching God. Alice Walker showed us the meaning of The Color Purple and Toni Morrison made us proud of our skin color with Tar Baby. It doesn’t stop there. Grab a book by one of the greats or newcomers like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie or Amanda Gorman.
It will help you understand why the women in your life work so hard—and maybe turn you into a bookworm.
Shop With a Black Woman-Owned Business
It’s a fact that Black women are starting businesses more than any other demographic in the country. That gives even greater opportunity for you to support, if you’re intentional. You can start with shops in Charlotte, N.C., like Captivate in Southpark Mall. You can head down to one of the Meccas of Black culture—Atlanta—and grab a plant-based burger from Slutty Vegan. Or you can shop online and support some Instagram boutiques like Raw Earth Jewelry or Sonya Bee Boutique.
Either way, you are supporting someone who worked hard at putting money back into the community and looking fly while doing it.
Imitate Something a Black Woman Taught You
Have you ever wondered how your grandmother came up with her potato salad recipe? Or how your aunt became so good at planting? The greatest flattery is imitation. Make the time to learn a skill a Black woman tried to teach you when you were younger. That recipe your mom wanted to show you, but you were too busy playing video games or that song your big sister tried to put you on, but you didn’t see its importance.
The joy they will feel when you call and ask them to teach you. Even if it doesn’t come out perfect like theirs—you’ll probably bring a piece of joy their way.
Keep Protecting the Black Women in Your Life
It might look like everything is good via Facebook and Instagram but sometimes we need to dig deeper than the surface. While you might not want to get involved in personal matters, it’s your job to protect the ones that have protected you and are continuing to protect you. Be sure to read the comments under a post. Listen to your best friend when she has troubles. Help the Black women in your life protect their peace.
Being on guard might be the difference she needs in her life.
