Why This Theme? Because Folx Don't Trust Black Womxn.
We believe in addressing uncomfortable truths head-on at The Afiya Center. This year, we made the important decision to title our upcoming summit "Do You Trust Black Womxn or Nah?" And let's be clear – this question is rhetorical. But we want to delve deeper into why this theme is so critical in our fight for Reproductive Justice.
First off- let’s level set and make sure we all understand what trust is. Our good friend dictionary.com defines trust, in the verb form, as “to rely upon or place confidence in someone or something” and “to have confidence; hope.”
So when we say people don’t trust Black womxn, we’re saying that they don’t have confidence in our abilities, what we say, think, or feel.
However, trust is not just about belief; it's about respect, validation, and empowerment. Trust is the foundation of any healthy relationship, whether it's with institutions, healthcare providers, or within our own communities. Without trust, these relationships falter, leaving Black womxn vulnerable to systemic injustices and interpersonal biases.
Now, let's dive into why this lack of trust is such a pervasive issue for Black womxn.
Reason #1: The systems that should serve us don’t trust us.
In her groundbreaking book "Pushout" (2015), Monique M. Morris shed light on the stories of Black girls whose desire to learn and grow was undermined by the very educators responsible for their development. Despite the passage of time, little has changed in the education system's engagement with Black adolescents. Similarly, stories like Temecia Jackson's, whose newborn was taken by Child Protective Services despite being well-cared for, highlight the systemic mistrust of Black families. Black womxn and girls continue to be subjected to systems that don’t trust us, value us, or listen to us.
Reason #2: The people who should help us don’t trust us.
How much preparation do you do before visiting your doctor's office? For Black womxn, the experience often involves being dismissed and disrespected by the very people assigned to help them. Practitioner bias persists, creating additional barriers to accessing quality healthcare. Interpersonal distrust from healthcare providers, partners, and even within our own communities further undermines our autonomy and perpetuates harmful stereotypes. We weren’t shocked to hear about Dr. Jackie’s biases towards her Black clients.
Reason #3: Internal Mistrust.
Many Black Womxn struggle with internalized mistrust, doubting their agency and worthiness in making decisions about their bodies and lives. Overcoming these doubts and trusting in our knowledge, experiences, and inherent value is essential for our empowerment. Ask Reesa Teesa, she’ll tell you….
“I know I did not trust myself, and I did not pay attention to the United Nations of red flags, I did not pray, and I am paying the consequences,” Reesa said. “I was desperate. I wanted to be married, I wanted a family and I thought it was my turn. Instead, I got pulled into something my brain could not understand.” - TikTok star, Reesa Teesa
The Afiya Center has been a beacon of hope, advocating tirelessly for Black Womxn's reproductive rights and this year’s Summit is another opportunity for us to continue this work alongside Black womxn from every space and lived experience.
What to Expect at the Texas Black Womxn’s Reproductive Justice Summit:
Plenary Sessions: Engage in critical conversations on systemic, interpersonal, and internal mistrust.
Breakout Sessions: Explore strategies to overcome barriers and build trust.
Black Girl Magic Experience: Celebrate the resilience and strength of Black Womxn.
Reimagine Reproductive Justice: Center on radical self-love and reclaiming agency over our bodies.
Wellness Resources: Access resources to nurture and care for ourselves, combating internalized mistrust.
Due to high demand, we're excited to offer doula training by Southern Roots Doula at an equitable rate. Let's increase the number of Black birth workers, combat maternal morbidity, and provide birthing families the experience they deserve.
Who all gone be there?
Black Womxn, wellness providers, social justice organizations, and community members – this is your space. Let's co-create an inclusive, informative, and empowering environment together.
Lock-in your spot
Visit www.theafiyacenter.org/rjsummit to register. Don’t miss this opportunity to challenge mistrust, cultivate solidarity, and affirm the inherent worth of Black Womxn.
This year's summit isn't just about asking tough questions; it's about finding the answers together and creating a future where Black Womxn are trusted, valued, and empowered. Join us in rewriting the narrative at the Texas Black Womxn’s Reproductive Justice Summit.