OPEN LETTER TO BLACK WOMEN
NOTE: Music is one of my love languages so as I offer you these words, I also offer these songs and poem for your listening pleasure. I hope each of them washes over your body and heals the places that need attention.
Dear Black Women,
Our expressions of Black Womanhood are as varied as our individual walks through life. But through these unique manifestations, we are deeply connected. I am you, and you are me—and I love you (us) fiercely.
Yesterday, we mourned collectively. Across the spectrum of our nation, men, women, and even some children felt the full gamut of grief and solidarity. If you are anything like me, you made space to sit with your emotions. However that space looked—whether through meditation, journaling, a quiet walk, safe spaces or a moment of silence—you honored yourself. I implore you to continue doing so. You are worthy of the time, space, and grace to process, to heal, and to replenish.
Before diving into the heart of this letter, I want to extend deep gratitude to Black men—the 78% (intentional shade) who took time amid their own pain to voice their support for us, to embrace us, to check on us, and to reaffirm their love and respect for us. To them, I say, thank you. As for the other 16-20%…well, let’s say I will only focus on those who honor me and recognize my worth and I say that with my FULL CHEST…but this is not about them.
And to those from other communities who showed us appreciation and care in their own ways—thank you for seeing us.
To my sisters…
I woke up today compelled to share a few thoughts with you.
1. FOCUS ON YOU. PRIORITIZE YOU.
Historically, we are the “mothers of civilization.” It’s in our DNA to care for others, often at our own expense. But now, I am urging you to center yourself. Go where you feel happiest, safest, and most authentically you. Let no one stifle your brilliance, no one dull your light. Show up as your full self—without apology.
2. MOVE DIFFERENTLY.
We have long known the power we carry within. Yet now, I ask you to move with a renewed sense of purpose. Instead of proclaiming that “Black Women are the most disrespected and undervalued,” walk as the QUEEN you are, because you are. When you do, the world has no choice but to recognize that truth. Claim it. (And if you need a reminder, look back at our history.)
3. BE FEARLESS AND SPEAK YOUR TRUTH.
Let your voice ring in all spaces—be bold, unapologetic, and unwavering. Speak your truth, call out the injustice, and be firm in who you are. If others struggle to adjust to your truth, let that be their challenge, not yours. Take your power back.
5. INTENTIONALLY BUILD YOUR VILLAGE
Surround yourself with those who are aligned with your energy, who uplift and encourage you. This does not mean shutting others out, but curating a village that nurtures your growth and allows you to thrive. Connect with other villages when it suits you, but keep your core strong and intentional.
This song by Geminelle comes to mind:
4. ALL SKINFOLK AIN’T KINFOLK.
Sometimes, we encounter those who may look like us but don’t share our values or vision. Remember, you owe no loyalty to anyone who does not align with your spirit. You have the right to protect your peace.
6. YOU DESERVE LOVE, RESPECT, HONOR, AND PEACE.
Period. This is non-negotiable.
7. PREPARE YOURSELF FOR BATTLE.
Whatever that looks like for you, embrace it. It might mean immersing yourself in strategy, brushing up on your reading, or sharpening your skills. For me, it’s returning to wisdom in texts like The Art of War by Sun Tzu and The Art of War for Women by Chin-Ning Chu. Arm yourself with knowledge, strength, and resilience in whatever ways resonate with you.
Remember, take all the time you need to process and reconcile your emotions. No one can dictate how you feel or tell you how to heal. You are not “overly emotional”; you are human. Reject any notion that says you should “get over it.” Stand firm, take your time, and move at your own pace.
As I write these words to you, they serve as a reminder to myself as well. My work in energy healing, in service to humanity, will always begin and end with my love and dedication to you—the Black Woman.
There’s an African proverb that says, “If you educate a man, you educate an individual, but if you educate a woman, you educate a family.” Today, I amend that: “If you heal a man, you heal the individual, but if you heal a woman, you heal a generation.” Let me share in your healing journey. Let’s heal and grow together, strengthening one another as we move forward.
I leave you with these words and an offering: a clip of “Laying On of Hands” from Ntozake Shange’s For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf. It’s a reminder of our shared strength, resilience, and the beautiful legacy we hold.
