In reflecting on experiences of remarkable black women like Taraji P. Henson and Claudine Gay, a profound sense of collective grief weighs heavily on my heart. While I may not have walked precisely in their professional shoes, the burden we all share is undeniably palpable. I’ve fought my own battles against systems ingrained with white supremacy, and exhaustion, a feeling all too familiar, looms large.
The pressure to be “perfect,” the perpetual need to prove oneself, and the expectation to express gratitude for what one has cultivated a weariness that transcends individual stories. I find myself contemplating whether trailblazers like Angela Davis, Fannie Lou Hammer, Shirley Chisholm, Betty Shabazz, Assata Shakur, and countless others harbored similar thoughts. The sacrifices these women made echo through time, propelling the ongoing advocacy of black women for fairness, equality, and justice.
Standing in solidarity with Taraji and Claudine is not merely an acknowledgment of their struggles but an affirmation of the broader fight. A fight that is much bigger than the eye can see. Advocating within systems not designed for us as black women is a monumental task, and the reality that basic human rights remain contested is a stark reminder of the journey that lies ahead.
On my reading list, I’ve added Bell Hooks’ “The Will to Change.” Bell Hooks, an advocate ahead of her time, laid the groundwork for discussions on critical issues such as this. However, the responsibility to carry the torch rests on ALL our shoulders. Within the mental health and psychedelic space, I am committed to bearing my cross on ensuring mental health equity, understanding that the price leaders pay for speaking up may not yield immediate changes in their lifetime.
It’s a bitter pill to swallow, acknowledging the impact of our resistance might outlive us. Yet, I think of my own destiny and the sacrifices of my ancestors, paving the way for advantages they knew they might never witness. To Taraji and Claudine, I want to convey that you are not alone. There are women who comprehend the courage and risks embedded in your resistance. Your efforts are not in vain; they contribute to a legacy of change that will endure beyond our present struggles.
With gratitude,
Can
