I had a long conversation a few months ago with a self-identified Black African American woman leader who’s a native born Columbian. She’s been active with several community and progressive political action committees as well. After just asking her, how she’s doing, she unloaded a ton about her frustration in working with some well-intended but passive white bystanders within one of the committees she’s worked in. I noticed just how exhausted and stressed she was and encouraged her to center herself, take time to rest and think more about her self care than their comfort with exploiting her free labor. She replied, if I don’t do it who will though? And I immediately felt sad. Howard County isn’t lacking in politically progressive people – especially progressive, formally educated white women and men, who say they care about racial equity and social justice. They are lacking white people with the moral courage and bravery to stand up for IBPOC neighbors, friends and colleagues – especially for Black women on all genders.
