Put that Down

The Strong Black Woman has been standing tall for decades.

She has been an enduring symbol of strength.

She has been unbreakable.

She has been resilient.

She has been the image of perfection and strength.

She has been superhuman.

She has been a cultural icon.

And…

She is played out.

It’s time to leave the Strong Black Woman trope where it’s at.

Black Women have always been expected to show up strong, leaving little room for softness and vulnerability.

We have always been on the front lines.

We have always had to carry the weight.

And for this, we have suffered.

We have suffered from higher levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.

We have been dehumanized, abused, and demonized. Yet, we have been the problem-solvers, caretakers, and backbone of the struggle and community.

And the struggle is real and has taken a toll on us.

So, it's time to put down that burden.

It's time to set ourselves free.

It’s time to allow ourselves to breathe, rest, and relax.

It's time to be open and vulnerable.

It’s time to be treated with softness.

It’s time for love.