Black Female Perspectives from Predominantly White Institutions

Book excerpt: Black Female Perspectives from Predominantly White Institutions: Strategies for Wellbeing in White Spaces and Beyond supports Black women working in predominantly White spaces and further educates their institutions, non-Black counterparts, students, and families in developing an understanding of the challenges and needs of Black women professionals. In the face of world challenges, the authors contend that anti-Blackness continues to be an infectious pandemic that is devastating Black lives around the globe. Black women professionals, who are often at the forefront of racial and gender justice movements at their institutions, have been especially burdened. Such devotion is daunting and often drains the wellbeing of Black women. Institutions frequently ignore the cry of racial battle fatigue that Black employees, and members of communities of color, are experiencing on a large scale. This has become a serious health risk for many Black people, particularly Black women professionals. The authors assert that it is important to use “for us by us” concepts when addressing racial battle fatigue. Therefore, this book is framed using several African descent-centered knowledge systems. It offers strategies to enhance the wellbeing of Black women, such as ancestral wisdom, addressing anti-Blackness, identities and female life cycles, and planting seeds grounded in love. Although the book focuses on Black women, it is encouraged reading for all. It is believed that greater awareness will spark greater change within our society.