We have big dreams for our children, and I’ve even started rehearsing the celebratory dance that will one day embarrass mine. But I know those future successes are also dependent upon me teaching solid lessons on self-awareness.
Black History Month is an excellent chance to re-evaluate the decisions I’ve made so far as a parent. It’s also an opportunity to develop age-appropriate messages for tomorrow.
I’m also aware of the ways black people have been falsely taught that their blackness limits the chances that those visions will become reality. It’s true that black individuals often must take the scenic route to success. However, it’s systemic racism, not blackness, that is the problem. This is evident in the countless black figures who have achieved what was once unthinkable.
In addition to the "typical" lessons passed on by parents, as a black mother I must prepare adjacent, culturally relevant schooling. In the past, these lessons focused on limiting children’s expressions of blackness in order to survive. Today, parents seek a more authentic presentation for their children. We know they deserve holistic joy. Thankfully, there are many figures in recent years that illustrate how to live unapologetically as a black American.
This Black History Month, I’ve narrowed my parenting goals down to three concepts I hope to teach over the next few years. Each of these aims to set a foundation for self-care and/or awareness. I’ve also selected an accompanying current figure that illustrates what this looks like.
Prioritize your peace
The fight for equality has cost us many of our leaders. In my own life, the fight has led to anxiety, depression, and many sleepless nights. This nation will suck you dry if you allow it to.
I don’t want my children to sacrifice themselves for the fight, like prior generations had to. History is filled with too many accounts of black folks who were robbed of joy, starting from childhood. I’m determined to teach mine to know when to take a step back.
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