Key Takeaways:
- Black women, key players in past elections and movements, are shifting their strategies post-Kamala Harris’s loss.
- They are focusing on less visible but impactful actions like lawsuits, boycotts, and community building.
- Their absence from some protests doesn’t mean they’re disengaged; they’re working strategically behind the scenes.
Black Women’s Strategic Absence: A New Form of Resistance
Since the presidential election, many have wondered where Black women, who played a crucial role in Kamala Harris’s campaign, have been. Their disappearance from the spotlight, especially in recent protests, has sparked curiosity and concern. However, their absence is not a sign of disengagement but a strategic shift in their approach to activism.
Black women have historically been at the forefront of social and political movements. But after feeling betrayed by Harris’s loss, many have chosen to step back from public protests. Instead, they are focusing on quieter, more deliberate forms of resistance. This new strategy is not about giving up—it’s about working smarter.
Why the Silence? Black Women Are Strategizing
Janai Nelson, president of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, explains that Black women are still very much engaged. They are simply choosing to work behind the scenes rather than in the public eye. “We may be out of sight to some people, but we’re not checked out by any stretch,” Nelson said. “The crisis in America is certainly not out of our minds.”
This shift in strategy is partly a response to feeling overlooked and underappreciated. After helping shape the direction of the election, many Black women felt that their efforts were not valued. Now, they are focusing on protecting their own leadership and energy.
The Power of Quiet Resistance
While Black women may not be as visible in protests, they are still actively working to challenge the system. For example, they are involved in lawsuits against policies targeting diversity and equity initiatives. These lawsuits aim to fight back against efforts to roll back progress on inclusion and fairness.
Another form of resistance is economic. Black women are using their influence as consumers to make a statement. For instance, some have joined boycotts of companies that scale back diversity efforts. This strategy is powerful because it directly impacts businesses and sends a clear message.
The Role of Black Women in the Fight Against Trump’s Policies
Black women are also leading the charge against specific policies introduced by the Trump administration. For example, they are challenging executive orders that aim to limit diversity and equity programs. These initiatives are seen as attacks on progress, and Black women are at the forefront of the legal battles to stop them.
In addition to lawsuits, Black women are organizing community efforts. These initiatives include mutual aid programs, political education, and town halls. The goal is to empower Black communities and create a united front against policies that harm them.
The 24-Hour Marathon: A New Way to Engage
In response to President Trump’s address to Congress, Black activists launched a 24-hour online marathon. This event focused on educating and empowering Black Americans affected by the new administration. The marathon has since grown into a 10-city tour, featuring town halls, mutual aid, and political education.
This innovative approach shows that Black women are still deeply engaged in the fight for justice. They are simply choosing to operate in ways that are more strategic and less visible.
Boycotts and Economic Power: A Powerful Tool
Black women are also using their economic power to make a difference. For example, after Target announced it would scale back its diversity initiatives, many Black women joined a boycott of the retailer. This movement, led by Pastor Jamal Bryant, called for a 40-day boycott during Lent.
The results were significant. Target’s stock price dropped, and foot traffic to stores slowed. While the full impact is still being measured, the boycott sent a clear message: Black women will not stand idly by while progress is rolled back.
What’s Next? Black Women’s Leadership in a New Era
The way Black women are engaging in activism is evolving, but their commitment remains strong. They are focusing on building strong, sustainable movements rather than short-term gains. This approach is rooted in a deep understanding of the challenges they face and the need for long-term solutions.
For many Black women, the fight is personal. They are determined to protect their communities and ensure that their voices are heard. While their methods may change, their resolve remains unshaken.
The Future of Black Women’s Activism
As the Trump administration continues to push policies that harm Black communities, Black women are ready to respond. They are doing this in ways that are both visible and invisible, public and private. Their strategy is rooted in a deep understanding of history and a commitment to justice.
Black women are still very much in the fight. They are just fighting smarter, more strategically, and in ways that prioritize their well-being and power.