Life Lessons from Navigating Racism at Work
Black people can’t fix racism. We didn’t create it; we can’t dismantle it. However, it permanents every aspect of our lives, both public and private, and it is maddening.
For Black women at work, the micro (and MACRO) aggressions are often louder than the praise for the value that we bring to the organization. As I navigate being Black in America and working for institutions that are steeped in white supremacy (because isn’t everything?), I guard myself with resources and I prepare myself for new incidents before they occur. I commit to being anti-racist, to being actively conscious about race and racism and taking actions to end racial inequities in our daily lives.
My anti-racist action is mentorship. If that doesn’t fit your style, donate to causes that support positive change, and fund legal assistance for jailed protestors. Organize voting and elections outreach to elect public officials who are outspoken against racism. No matter what you do, start it now and commit to it.
Here is a collection of some of my favorite resources for Black women navigating racism and the workplace. Many of these are from Schoolin Life Podcast and friends of the show.
RESIST.
Schoolin Life Podcast “How to Be Friends With White Women” https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-be-friends-with-white-women/id1257893133?i=1000454410434
THE MEMO by Minda Harts http://mindaharts.com/book/
Schoolin Life Podcast “Give Us Back What You Owe Us” https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/give-us-back-what-you-owe-us/id1257893133?i=1000467291059
The Table: Stories from Black Women in Student Affairs: https://www.thetablebooks.com/
Dare to Lead by Brene Brown https://brenebrown.com/books-audio/