To my beautiful sisters:

In our journey through life, we encounter numerous challenges, triumphs, and moments that shape who we are and how we relate to one another. As Black women, we navigate a world that often misunderstands and marginalizes us. Yet, within our own community, we sometimes find ourselves grappling with a different kind of struggle: the challenge of showing kindness and support to one another.

The lack of kindness within our community is not a simple issue. It’s rooted in centuries of systemic oppression, societal pressures, and internalized narratives that have shaped our interactions. From the legacy of slavery and segregation to modern-day disparities in opportunity and representation, these factors have contributed to divisions and misunderstandings among us.

Historically, our community has faced immense hardships that have left scars on our collective psyche. The divide-and-conquer tactics employed during times of slavery sought to pit us against each other, fostering competition and mistrust instead of solidarity. These tactics, alongside the enduring impacts of systemic racism, have perpetuated cycles of internalized oppression and self-doubt.

To cultivate kindness within our community, we must first acknowledge and address these barriers. Healing from within involves recognizing and healing from the historical trauma and internalized racism that affect how we perceive ourselves and each other. Embracing our diversity while recognizing our shared experiences as Black women can help foster unity and understanding.

Building networks of support and empathy that uplift and empower one another in our personal and professional endeavors is crucial. By highlighting our resilience, creativity, and accomplishments, we inspire and uplift future generations. Establishing environments where vulnerability is welcomed, and kindness is the norm allows us to heal and grow together. Cultivating meaningful relationships built on trust, empathy, and mutual respect strengthens our community’s fabric.

We must be willing to embark on a journey of self-reflection and collective action and learn about the historical and societal factors that influence our interactions and perceptions. We must seek to understand the experiences and perspectives of other Black women, recognizing the diversity within our community. Finally, we must challenge stereotypes and discriminatory practices within our community and society at large.

Dear sisters, let us embrace the power of kindness as a catalyst for change within our community. By nurturing empathy, understanding, and support, we can create a future where every Black woman feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. United, we can rewrite the narrative and build a legacy of sisterhood that transcends boundaries and inspires generations to come.

With love and solidarity,

Erika