Virginia Humanities’ Post

This Democracy Needs to Work for All of Us I don’t post often, but after attending the screening of Dear America: A Letter from Black Women, a film by Project Ready, I feel compelled to share my thoughts. A heartfelt thank you to Chief for hosting such a meaningful and powerful event. The film stirred something deep within me, reminding me of both the beauty and the weight of my journey as a Black woman. Since joining Planned Parenthood in 2011, I’ve been committed to advocating for women—especially Black women, whose voices are too often marginalized. The struggle to be heard and seen is real, and it’s painful. But as Black women, we don’t have the luxury of giving up—none of us do. We continue to show up, push boundaries, and fight for the world we deserve, because our very existence demands it. There’s undeniable strength in the resilience we carry, but the pain of fighting against systems not built for us cannot be ignored. Real change doesn’t happen by standing on the sidelines. It requires us to step inside these systems, speak up, and refuse to be silenced. I urge you all to watch this powerful documentary and join the conversation. Visit https://lnkd.in/g-w4iBrj to learn more and see how essential it is that we push for a democracy that serves everyone. Thank you again, Chief, for creating a space for these critical conversations. #BlackWomenMatter #Chief #TheDearAmericaProject #DemocracyInAction #SystemChange #PlannedParenthood #Advocacy #Resilience

I’m curious—would anyone be interested in adult debate courses? I believe it’s essential for individuals of all ages to understand the power of advocacy. I’m considering starting a small cohort for Black Women in Debate this January and want to gauge interest. The goal of this cohort would be to learn how to construct a well-rounded argument, advocate for your beliefs, and establish yourself as a credible expert in your field. If you or someone you know is interested in using debate as a tool for empowerment, please reach out, comment, or DM me! -Xoxo The first Black Woman to win the National Debate Tournament

Such a timely and thought-provoking topic.

The Million Man March, held on October 16, 1995, in Washington, D.C., was a monumental event that called upon Black men to unite in personal responsibility, justice, and community empowerment. Led by Minister Louis Farrakhan, it gathered nearly a million men with a shared commitment to improving their lives, families, and communities. The March emphasized the power of unity, self-determination, and the importance of addressing societal injustices while taking accountability for the role one plays in uplifting their own communities. Its legacy is a reminder of the strength that comes from collective action, the need to fight systemic inequality, and the necessity of continued progress in the quest for justice, equality, and dignity for all. Key lessons: Unity: There's power in coming together for a common cause. Self-improvement: Lasting change begins with individual growth and accountability. Justice: The fight for equality requires persistence and community mobilization. Legacy: Building a better future is a responsibility we owe to the next generation. #MillionManMarch #UnityAndJustice #CommunityEmpowerment #SelfImprovement #BlackHistory #Equality #SocialChange #LegacyOfStrength

Barack Obama vs. Kamala Harris: Are They Failing Black America? We discuss Barack Obama's recent comments and the concern over support for Black women in politics. Are Kamala Harris and Joe Biden truly advocating for the Black community? Let’s unpack the political landscape and explore what’s really happening. #BarackObama #KamalaHarris #BlackPolitics #PoliticalDebate #CommunitySupport #VoterImpact #BidenAdministration #BlackVoices #PoliticalAnalysis #AmericanPolitics

The CEP & the Equity Research Action Coalition's latest report, "Review of Policy Effects on Black Families & Children: Advancing the Black Child National Agenda" examines major policies impacting the lives of Black children/families. Learn more HERE: https://lnkd.in/gJxq8_ba #BlackChildNationalAgenda #BlackFamilies #Equity

In the face of destruction and anguish, what does it mean to retain our humanity and sense of possibility? This question guides the powerful stories shared in JASS (Just Associates)'s latest article. 🌍✨ Learn from rural and indigenous womxn, community leaders, and activists who, despite facing grave crises and injustices, find joy, care, and community. Their experiences at feminist movement builders' schools reveal the strength of transnational solidarity and the importance of defending life and reclaiming imagination.     Read the full piece here: https://lnkd.in/gQiZVjhb   

Honoring Juneteenth - A Day of Reflection and Renewed Commitment Today, we commemorate an important milestone in American history - Juneteenth. On June 19, 1865, the news of the Emancipation Proclamation finally reached the farthest corners of the nation, marking the end of slavery in the United States. While it was another step towards freedom, we know the journey was long and the fight against racism is still not over. Juneteenth reminds us of the resilience of the human spirit and the progress that can be achieved through perseverance and solidarity. At Nissa Consulting, we reaffirm our commitment to promoting racial equity and inclusion within the nonprofit sector and beyond. We vow to amplify voices that have been silenced, create more opportunities, and work towards dismantling systemic barriers. On this day, we reflect on how far we've come but also acknowledge how much further we must go. Let Juneteenth fuel us with renewed determination to build a more just, equal and compassionate society for all. We invite nonprofits and community leaders to share how you are honoring Juneteenth and what actions you are taking to advance racial justice. Together, we can spark meaningful change. #Juneteenth #RacialEquity #RacialJustice #DEI #SocialImpact

2024 revealed a powerful truth: systemic change requires building new institutions, not just working within existing ones. As threats to minority rights intensified, I transitioned from seeking elected office to founding organizations that could outlast election cycles and create sustainable change. The launch of The National Minority Rights Coalition marked this pivot; establishing a framework for minority communities to move beyond serving as political props to becoming architects of systemic transformation. Key institutions established: • The National Minority Rights Coalition (NMRC); dedicated to advancing minority rights through direct action and policy advocacy • The Central Library Association of Washington; supporting DC's crucial public library infrastructure • The Regional Development Commission (DMVDC); fostering cooperation between Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia Three posts that captured our mission: "In this grave and harrowing moment, we are all compelled to act" - On launching NMRC and transitioning from individual campaigning to institutional change https://lnkd.in/eVTbXJFC "Any attempt to rescind home rule from the District of Columbia is racism" - On defending DC's autonomy and minority representation https://lnkd.in/eAc7QeUm "In this time of turmoil, confusion, and seeming hostility towards knowledge" - On founding the Central Library Association https://lnkd.in/ezvc798Q Looking ahead to 2025: I'm expanding my national footprint while strengthening local institutions. The fight for minority rights isn't won through rhetoric but through building lasting structures that can weather political storms. To those wondering if individual action matters: Yes, but only when it builds toward sustainable, institutional change. The time for symbolic victories is over; now we build for lasting impact. #MinorityRights #SystemicChange #DCPolitics

During a couple of the previous episodes we have alluded to the industrial prison complex and its impact on the Black community.  For this episode, I wanted to go a little deeper as this is an issue that impacts the Black community.  As we talk about the issues that impact Black women, we can’t forget how imprisonment and its ongoing outcomes impact Black women, men and families.    #SistersLead @SistersLead    https://lnkd.in/eMJGY8dj