You, Me & the VP
4 Ways Black Women Can Protect Themselves Against Backlash from the Kamala Harris Presidential Campaign
In the midst of Kamala Harris’s historic and trailblazing front-run for the presidency, Black women find ourselves once again at the forefront of both celebration and scrutiny. As Vice President Harris steps a converse sneaker one step further onto the global theatre of power, her presence inevitably stirs a range of emotions and reactions. Unfortunately, this also means that Black women may face heightened backlash and microaggressions. Here are four essential strategies to help navigate this period with resilience and grace.
1. Don’t Let Yourself Get Provoked
Stay Grounded: In the face of provocative comments or aggressive debates, it’s crucial to stay calm and composed. Reacting impulsively can often escalate the situation and take a toll on your emotional well-being. Practice deep breathing or count to ten before responding to help maintain your composure.
Choose Your Battles: Not every comment or criticism deserves a response. Sometimes, walking away or politely ending the conversation is the best way to protect your peace. Remember, it’s okay to prioritize your mental health over engaging in unproductive arguments.
2. Lean on Your Inner Circle
Cultivate Close Relationships: Surround yourself with friends, family, and colleagues who truly understand and support you. These trusted individuals can offer a safe space to share your feelings, provide advice, and uplift you during challenging times.
Regular Check-Ins: Make it a habit to check in with your inner circle regularly. Whether it’s through phone calls, virtual hangouts, or in-person meetups, staying connected can provide a sense of community and reassurance that you’re not facing these challenges alone.
3. Assert Your Boundaries
Communicate Clearly: Set clear boundaries with colleagues, friends, and family regarding discussions about politics and race. It's okay to avoid conversations that drain your energy or make you uncomfortable. Use phrases like, “I’d prefer not to discuss this right now,” to assert your needs respectfully.
Protect Your Space: Curate your social media feeds and limit exposure to negative or toxic content. Unfollow or mute accounts that perpetuate negativity, and instead, fill your feed with positive, uplifting content that inspires and empowers you.
4. Empower Yourself with Knowledge
Stay Informed: Educate yourself about the political landscape and the specific issues at stake in Kamala Harris’s campaign. Knowledge is power, and being informed can help you feel more confident in discussions and debates.
Know Your Rights: Understand your legal rights in the workplace and beyond. Familiarize yourself with policies regarding discrimination and harassment, and know the appropriate channels to report any incidents. Organizations like the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) can be valuable resources.
As Kamala Harris’s campaign continues to break barriers and challenge the status quo, Black women must remain vigilant and proactive in protecting their well-being. By not letting yourself get provoked, leaning on your inner circle, asserting boundaries, and empowering yourself with knowledge, you can navigate the complexities of this historic moment with strength and grace.
Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Together, we can support each other and rise above the challenges, ensuring that our voices are heard and our presence is felt. You, me, and the VP—standing strong and proud.
