Community & Collaboration

Greetings Sistah!

 I hope your week is off to a great start and your mind is in a peaceful space. If yesterday was a struggle, let’s leave it there. It’s a new day! No matter what time you are reading this, decide to operate in a state of peace and prosperity. You got this sis!

“Deal with yourself as an individual worthy of respect and make everyone else deal with you the same way.” — Nikki Giovanni Sending a reminder that you are more than deserving of your respect. You owe it to yourself.

Talk About it Tuesday Topic: What do you bring to your communal table?

Communities are built on the collective contributions of their members. Each of us have unique strengths, perspectives, and talents. Recognizing what we bring to the table not only helps us appreciate our own value, it inspires others to see and harness their own abilities.

Let’s reflect on what we bring to the communal table:

Skills and Talents: What skills and talents do you possess that can benefit others? Are you a great listener, a natural leader, a creative artist, or a strategic thinker?

Passions and Interests: What are you passionate about? How can your interests be channeled into community activities or initiatives?

Experiences and Wisdom: What life experiences have shaped you? Sharing your journey, challenges, and triumphs can provide invaluable insights and inspiration to others. Your story matters and sharing it may be a beacon of hope for someone else.

Time and Energy: How do you invest your time and energy into your community? Sometimes, just being present and available to support others can make a world of difference.

The Essence of Community

On a surface level, a community is built on the principles of togetherness, mutual support, and a shared vision. Whether it's through family, friendships, or professional networks, our community should provide a safe space where we can be our authentic selves, share our resources, and receive the motivation we need to keep moving forward.

But what does community truly mean?

Common Unity: At its core, community is about belonging. It's the feeling of being part of something larger than ourselves. When we belong to a community, we are embraced for who we are, without judgment or pretense. This sense of belonging is vital for our emotional and mental well-being. It reassures us that we are not alone in our journey and that there are others who understand, support, and celebrate us.

Lifting as we rise: A strong community thrives on mutual support. It's about offering help when someone is in need and knowing that others will do the same for us. This reciprocal relationship builds trust and strengthens bonds. Whether it's a shoulder to cry on or a word of encouragement, the support we give and receive motivates us to overcome challenges and achieve our goals.

Shared Vision: This common purpose drives collective action and inspires individuals to contribute their skills and talents. A shared vision not only gives direction; it instills a sense of pride and accomplishment. Shared vision allows us to acknowledge that what we need to fulfill our shared vision is achievable when everyone is operating in their power.

Authenticity Appreciation: One of the most beautiful aspects of a community is the freedom to be our authentic selves. In a genuine community, there is no need for masks. We are accepted and appreciated for who we truly are. This authenticity fosters deep connections and creates an environment where we grow and thrive. When we are true to ourselves, we inspire others to do the same.

Resource Sharing: A thriving community is one where resources are shared generously. Knowledge, skills, and experiences are exchanged to uplift and empower. The culture of sharing ensures that no one is left behind and that everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Building Your Tribe

Building a strong community is an essential part of living an enriched life. Let's talk about what it means to build your tribe and how to determine if you've found your perfect fit.

Knowing if the community you're a part of is right for you involves introspection and observation. Here are 7 key indicators to help you determine if you’ve found your ideal community:

1. Alignment with Your Values: Reflect on your core values and beliefs. Does your community align with them? Being in a community that shares your values provides harmony and fulfillment.

2. Sense of Belonging:  Do you feel accepted and valued in your community?  You should feel comfortable being your authentic self without fear of judgment.

3. Support System: Consider the level of support you receive. A supportive community provides emotional, moral, and sometimes even practical assistance.

4. Opportunities for Growth: Does your community encourage personal and professional growth? A strong community offers opportunities for learning, development, and self-improvement.

5. Positive Environment: Evaluate the overall atmosphere. Is it positive and uplifting? A healthy community fosters positivity, kindness, and encouragement, creating a nurturing environment.

6. Active Participation:  Are you actively involved and contributing? Being an engaged member helps you form deeper connections.

7. Conflict Resolution: How does your community handle conflicts? Effective and respectful conflict resolution is a sign of a mature and strong community.

5 Steps to Elevate and Enhance Your Support System

In an ideal world, our communities would always offer the support, encouragement, and the feeling of home that we crave. Reality can sometimes fall short of our expectations. If you find yourself in a community that lacks the support you desire, it might be time to take proactive steps to elevate and strengthen your surroundings. Here are 5 Steps to help you transform your community into one that truly nurtures and uplifts you.

1. Inner Work and Self-Awareness: Start with yourself. This involves reflecting on your values, strengths, and areas for growth. Understand your emotions, triggers, and how you interact with others. Journaling, meditation, and seeking feedback from trusted friends or mentors can be valuable tools in this process. By knowing yourself better, you can contribute more authentically and effectively to your community.

2. Prioritize Self-Care: I’ll say it 1,000 times a day if I have to: Self-care is not selfish; it's a necessity. You cannot pour from an empty cup. Ensure that you are prioritizing your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. This involves setting aside time for rest, engaging in activities that bring you joy, and making sure your cup is full before pouring. When you prioritize your well-being, you become better equipped to support others. A healthy, balanced you will inspire and uplift those around you.

3. Evaluate Your Needs: What kind of support are you seeking? Are you looking for emotional encouragement, practical assistance, or professional networking opportunities? Be specific about your needs and communicate them clearly. By understanding and articulating your needs, you will align yourself with a community that meets them.

4. Give as Much as You Take: A thriving community is built on reciprocity. Ask yourself if you are giving as much as you take. Are you actively contributing to the well-being of others? This could be through offering your time, skills, or simply being a supportive presence. When you give generously, you create a culture of mutual support and trust. The energy you put into your community often returns to you in unexpected and fulfilling ways.

5. Know What Is and Isn’t for You: Not every community will be the right fit for you, and that's okay. It's important to recognize what is and isn't for you and move accordingly. If a community consistently drains your energy or doesn't align with your values, is it really common unity? It might be time to seek out new connections. Trust your intuition and find environments that resonate with your authentic self. Surround yourself with people who uplift, inspire, and support your growth.

The Power of Collaboration

Collaboration is the heartbeat of any thriving community. When we come together to share our skills, knowledge, and resources, we create a synergy that amplifies our collective strengths and enables us to achieve more than we ever could alone. Collaboration fosters innovation, drives progress, and nurtures a sense of unity that is essential for our growth and success.

5 Reasons why Collaboration Matters

Collaboration is about working together towards a common goal and recognizing that we are stronger together than we are apart. Here’s why collaboration is so powerful:

1. Amplifies Strengths: When individuals with diverse skills and perspectives come together, they complement each other’s strengths. This creates a more dynamic and capable team that can tackle complex challenges and generate innovative solutions.

2. Innovation: Collaboration encourages the exchange of ideas and promotes creative thinking. When we pool our knowledge and experience, we open up new possibilities.

4. Enhances Learning and Growth: Through collaboration, we learn from each other’s experiences and broaden our perspectives. This continuous learning and growth not only benefit individuals but also contribute to the overall development of the community.

5. Greater Impact:  By combining our efforts and resources, we can achieve a greater impact. Collaboration enables us to address larger issues and create more significant change than we could on our own.

The Impact of Collaboration in Sistahs IN

At Sistahs IN, collaboration is at the heart of everything we do. Our mission is to create a safe space where Black and Indigenous women can connect, inspire, and support each other. Here’s how collaboration plays a pivotal role in our community:

1.      We encourage our members to share their skills, knowledge, and resources. Whether it’s through workshops, networking events, or online forums, our members have access to a wealth of information and support that can help them achieve their personal and professional goals.

2.      Collaboration empowers our members by giving them a platform to voice their ideas and contribute to the community. Empowerment is crucial for building confidence and fostering a culture of mutual respect and support.

3.      By working together, our members develop innovative solutions to common challenges. This collaborative approach not only leads to better outcomes but also promotes ownership and pride in our achievements.

4.      Collaboration helps us build a strong and cohesive community. Through joint initiatives and projects, our members forge strong bonds and create a supportive network that extends beyond the virtual space.

How to Collaborate

Collaboration requires intentional effort and a commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment. Here are some tips to encourage collaboration in your community:

1. Ensure that your community is a safe and inclusive space where everyone feels valued and respected. Encourage open and honest communication, and actively listen to each other’s ideas and concerns.

2. Invite members to participate in collaborative projects and initiatives. Provide opportunities for them to share their skills and contribute to the community in meaningful ways.

3. Acknowledge and celebrate the successes and contributions of your members. Recognizing their efforts motivates them to continue collaborating.

4. Create opportunities for members to connect and network with each other. This could be through events, workshops, or online forums. Building strong relationships is key to fostering a collaborative community.

5. Offer resources and support to help members collaborate effectively. This could include training, tools, and platforms that facilitate communication and project management.

Whether you are building your community, looking for the right fit, or thriving with your tribe we wish you abundance. We hope that Sistahs IN is one of the communities that contribute to your growth and success. Most importantly, we wish you love, peace, and joy. Thank you for reading, we look forward to connecting with you soon!

With Sistah Love & Gratitude,

Devony (Deedee) Bailey

The Roots Nourish The Fruits

Thankful Thursday Sis!

I hope the week has been amazing for you so far. If you’re having a tough time this week, I’m here to remind you that whatever you’re facing has no power over you. You get to decide what holds space in your energy bubble. Anything that is counter-productive to your goals and well-being, release.

"One of the lessons that I grew up with was to always stay true to yourself and never let what somebody else says distract you from your goals." – Michelle Obama. Don’t let anyone or anything distract you from your goals, not even yourself.

Gratitude for Family and Community: This Thankful Thursday

On this beautiful Thankful Thursday, I want focus on the gratitude I feel for two cornerstones of my life: family and community. A huge source of inspiration and joy.

Family is the foundation of our lives. It's where our stories begin and where our roots are deeply planted. Growing up, my grandparents and elders instilled in me the importance of knowing our heritage, being proud of our divinely strong roots, and cherishing the bonds that hold us together. They taught me that family is not just about blood relations, but also about the love, support, and shared experiences that connect us.

Just as family is essential, so is community.  I have been blessed to create sisterhoods in every place I've lived. These communities have been my safe space, offering support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. Sistahs IN was born out of this very need – to create a safe, nurturing space for Black and Indigenous women to connect, inspire, and uplift one another. In recognizing the importance of family and community, we also acknowledge the role we play in each other's lives.  

Reach Out: A Gratitude Exercise for Connection and Joy

Gratitude is more than just a feeling; it's a practice that when done right, will transform the way we think. When we take the time to recognize and appreciate the good things and people in our lives, we cultivate happiness, peace, and connection.

Take a few moments to sit quietly and reflect on the people who have made a positive impact on your life. It could be an old teacher who inspired you, a friend you haven't spoken to in a while, or a mentor who guided you through a tough time. Allow yourself to feel appreciation for the role they played in your journey.

Identify one person who stands out to you in this moment. It might be someone you haven't connected with recently, or someone whose influence you haven't fully acknowledged.

Reach out to this person. You can send a heartfelt message, write a letter, or even give them a call. Let them know that you were thinking of them, and express your gratitude.

After reaching out, reflect on how it felt to connect with that person. Notice any shifts in your mood or perspective. Did this exercise bring a smile to your face? If you didn’t feel any immediate shifts, that’s okay. Your expressed gratitude can make someone's day, lifting their spirits and reminding them of their worth and impact. As we navigate life, it's easy to overlook the small but significant ways others contribute to our well-being. Let’s make sure we are watering the seeds we want to grow.

Happy National Black Family Month!!!

July is National Black Family Month, a time dedicated to celebrating the strength, resilience, and unity of Black families. “Black Family Month was first recognized in 2006, to encourage the enrichment of families through education, health, and self-improvement; this observance also encourages us to support our loved ones, reflect with one another, and invest in and inspire the next generation.”

The history of Black families in America is a testament to resilience, strength, and unwavering spirit. From the dark days of slavery, through the struggles of the Civil Rights Movement, to the ongoing fight against inequality and injustice, Black families have been at the forefront of the American experience.

The American History of Black Families

During the era of slavery, Black families were often torn apart as spouses and children were sold to different owners. Despite these horrific conditions, many enslaved people managed to maintain familial bonds through oral traditions, secret meetings, and so many other forms of identifications and communications.

Following the Emancipation Proclamation, Black families faced the monumental task of building and rebuilding their lives. During the Reconstruction era, many worked tirelessly to reunite with lost loved ones, establish homes, and build communities.

As we revisit our history and reflect on the resilience and strength of Black families during National Black Family Month, it's crucial to shed light on some of the dark and often overlooked chapters in our past. These events are a reminder of the systemic racism and hostility that our ancestors endured, yet their persevering spirit paved the way for us.

A Journey of Hope and Survival

The Great Migration, spanning from 1916 to 1970, was a monumental shift in the demographics of the United States. Black families left the oppressive conditions of the South, where they faced disenfranchisement, economic exploitation, and rampant violence. However, their journey to northern and western cities did not quite welcome their presence.

 The East St. Louis Massacre (1917): One of the most violent racial conflicts of the early 20th century occurred in East St. Louis, Illinois. Tensions over job competition between Black migrants and white workers escalated into a deadly riot. White mobs attacked Black neighborhoods, killing an estimated 100 to 200 Black residents, destroying homes, and forcing thousands to flee.

The Chicago Race Riot (1919): Part of the Red Summer of 1919, the Chicago Race Riot was sparked by the drowning of a Black teenager, Eugene Williams, who had drifted into a "whites-only" section of Lake Michigan. The incident led to widespread violence between Black and white communities, resulting in 38 deaths, over 500 injuries, and the destruction of numerous Black homes and businesses.

The Tulsa Race Massacre (1921): The Tulsa Race Massacre, saw one of the wealthiest Black communities in America, known as Black Wall Street, decimated. A false accusation against a Black man triggered an onslaught by white mobs, who burned down homes, businesses, and churches, killing an estimated 300 Black residents and displacing thousands.

The Rosewood Massacre (1923): In Rosewood, Florida, a prosperous Black town was destroyed after a false claim of assault by a Black man on a white woman. White mobs razed the town, killed at least six Black residents (though some estimates suggest many more), and forced survivors to flee, never to return.

The Detroit Race Riot (1943): During World War II, Detroit became a hotspot for racial tension due to the influx of Black workers in defense industries. In June 1943, a fight between Black and white youths escalated into a riot. The violence resulted in 34 deaths, 25 of whom were Black, and extensive property damage.

These massacres were not isolated incidents but part of a broader pattern of racial violence aimed at suppressing Black advancement and maintaining white supremacy. The trauma and loss experienced by Black families during these events have left lasting scars, yet they also underscore the resilience and determination of our communities.

Civil Rights Era: The mid-20th century saw Black families at the heart of the Civil Rights Movement, fighting for equal rights, desegregation, and voting rights. Leaders like Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, and countless others emerged from strong family backgrounds that instilled in them the values of justice and equality.

Today, Black families continue to navigate systemic challenges while achieving remarkable success in various fields. From politics to entertainment, We are breaking barriers and setting new standards of excellence.

The Importance of Remembering

Understanding these dark chapters in our history is crucial for several reasons.  Recognizing the atrocities faced by our ancestors is a step toward collective healing. It allows us to honor their sacrifices.

Educating ourselves and future generations about these events helps prevent the erasure of our history and ensures that the struggles and achievements of Black families are remembered and respected.

 Despite the violence and oppression, Black communities have shown remarkable strength and unity. This legacy of resilience should inspire and empower us to continue striving for a bigger and brighter future.

As we observe National Black Family Month, let us remember the countless Black families who endured unimaginable hardships during the Great Migration and beyond. Their stories of perseverance and strength are the foundation upon which we build our future. The Roots.

3 Reasons to Celebrate Black Family Month

1.      We pay tribute to the generations who endured unimaginable hardships and paved the way for our freedom and opportunities.

2.      Strengthening family bonds is essential for building supportive and thriving communities. This month encourages us to reconnect with loved ones and nurture our relationships.

3.       We celebrate the accomplishments of Black families in various fields, from arts and culture to education and entrepreneurship.

4.       By acknowledging the challenges that Black families face, we can advocate for policies and initiatives that support our well-being and success.

5 Ways to Celebrate Black Family Month

1. Family Reunions:  Host a family reunion to reconnect with relatives and celebrate your shared heritage. This can be a virtual or in-person event where you share stories, enjoy meals, and participate in activities that highlight your family's history.

2. Storytelling : Gather family members to share stories about your ancestors and their experiences. Recording these stories ensures that future generations can learn from and cherish their legacy.

3. Community Service:  Volunteer as a family in your community. Whether it's organizing a neighborhood cleanup, mentoring youth, or supporting local Black-owned businesses, giving back together strengthens family bonds and contributes to community well-being.

4. Educational Activities: Take time to learn about Black history and culture. Visit museums, read books by Black authors, or watch documentaries that highlight the experiences and contributions of Black families.

5. Cultural Celebrations: Embrace your cultural heritage through music, dance, and art. Host a cultural night where you showcase traditional dances, play music, and create art that reflects your family's history.

BONUS- Advocacy and Awareness:  Use this month as an opportunity to advocate for issues that impact Black families. Participate in community forums, support social justice initiatives, and raise awareness about systemic challenges.

As we reflect on our history and embrace our cultural heritage, let us remember that our ancestors' sacrifices and triumphs have paved the way for our successes. Together, we can carry on the torch of creating a future where Black families thrive, empowered by the love, support, and unity that have always defined our community.

By coming together, we can continue to support and uplift one another, ensuring that the strength and unity of Black families remain an unbreakable cornerstone of our society.

With gratitude and solidarity,

Devony (Deedee) Bailey 

Mental Health Check

Hey Queen Hey!

I hope your week is off to a great start! If yesterday was rocky let’s process, release, and keep it moving! July marks halfway through 2024. As we carry through, remember the promises you made to yourself this year. It’s not too late to get back to keeping those promises. Keep pushing towards your goals knowing everything you desire will find you. Wise word from the dynamic Simone Biles, “I was built this way for a reason, so I’m going to use it." With that in mind, achieve your dreams sis. You were built for it. Let’s get it done!

Tuesday Topic: Mental Health Check

In observance of Minority Mental Health Month, our talk about it Tuesday topic - Mental Health Check!

On a scale of 1-10, rate how you feel about your mental state.

If you're having a hard time evaluating on a number scale, write down some of the feelings you have been experiencing lately: Anxious, Restless, Blissful, Content.

Feel free to comment your answer on our Sistahs IN Facebook or Instagram Page.

My Mental Health Check

I give myself a solid 7. I’ve felt calmer these past few weeks than I have all year. I’ve spent a great deal of the year dealing with one life situation after the other as many of us have. Quarter one didn’t go as planned. Most of Quarter 2 was spent re-strategizing those delayed plans.

I remind myself that progress isn’t linear. There will be highs and lows which is why mental health maintenance is necessary. Back in January, I purchased some Holistic Therapy and Wellness Cards from Milk & Honey Therapy. The section of cards I use most is the Foundational skills exercises. When I need help Identifying what I may be feeling, the feelings wheel card helps me target the emotion.

There are a variety of exercises and grounding techniques offered in the card deck but my favorite one is the Needs Check-in. The card questions are simple yet instantly impactful: What do I need in this moment? What do I need physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually?

I can say that honoring the answers to those questions has reduced my experiences with anxiety and panic.

Facts About Minority Mental Health

We all know that mental health doesn’t discriminate. No matter your color, sex, age, race or background, you can still be susceptible to mental challenges or even illnesses. So, now that we’ve established that mental health doesn’t discriminate, can someone tell me what does?

Recent statistics show that 1 in 5 Americans suffer from mental illness. Research also shows that Black Americans are 20% more likely to experience mental health issues than the rest of the population. Yet, Black Americans are the least likely population to seek treatment… Let’s Talk About it.

Some would argue that Black people don’t seek treatment due to the stigma that our communities have put on therapy. Though this may be true in some instances, I believe that a great deal of progress has been made. In fact, I know plenty of sistahs who have the “Have you been to therapy” question listed on their prospect interview list.

I’m no licensed mental health expert, but from my experience and research, I can give you

3 reasons why black people are less likely to seek Mental Health Treatment

1. Lack of resources

Because we’re not going to act like there's an abundant amount of resources available to those who need mental health the most. The single mother or father working 2 and 3 jobs to make ends meet, the elder living off a social security check that barely covers the rent, or the countless people with more debts than revenue, doing everything possible to survive financially.

Minority communities are more likely to experience socioeconomic disparities and exclusion from health, educational, social, and economic resources. That’s just the facts that contribute to worse mental health outcomes.

2. Lack of trust in the Health Care System

I have an alarming number of 1st hand health-care horror stories. When I tell you I done got burnt a few times by the system…I literally have PTSD. What’s even more alarming is the amount of sistahs who have stories just like mine, if not worse. As well as the countless women who did not live to tell their stories.

I could write a whole blog on the many areas in which the healthcare system has worked against us for centuries and how the treatment mortality rates are at the very least, suspicious. Instead, I’ll leave you with some google homework if it stricks your curiosity. If you would like a blog about it, let a sis know.

3. Discrimination in the Healthcare System

Discrimination in the mental health system has had profound effects on the well-being of Black women including myself. A study by the American Psychological Association (APA) revealed that cultural competence among mental health providers is lacking.

There are many trainings available for Healthcare providers that contribute to the lessening of discrimination. Of course the resources are only useful if the teachings are applied. I believe that lack of representation in study guides and educational material provided to studying health professionals also contributes to systematic discrimination.

Though there are several barriers against us, too many to name, I implore you to take care of yourself and ALWAYS ADVOCATE FOR YOURSELF. If your provider won’t hear you, there’s always someone higher.

How often do you evaluate your mental health?

Evaluating your mental health is an ongoing process that requires self-awareness, reflection, and a commitment to self-care. By recognizing the signs of mental health issues, reflecting on your daily life, assessing your stress levels, evaluating your support system, practicing self-care, and seeking professional help when needed, you can take proactive steps towards mental well-being.There is not a one- size fits all strategy so if you don’t have an evaluation system, let us know and we will get you some resources.

As I said earlier, one of my favorite resources to use are the Holistic Therapy and Wellness Cards from Milk & Honey Therapy. If you end up purchasing some, let me know how they work for you!

3 Things That Have Helped Me Improve My Mental Health: Knowing, Growing, and Glowing

 These principles have helped me navigate through life's challenges.

1. Knowing: Self-Awareness and Understanding

Knowing yourself—your triggers, strengths, and weaknesses—is crucial. My journey of self-discovery allows me to understand what makes me tick and how to avoid the things that make me tock.

Self-Reflection: Journaling has been an invaluable tool. Writing down my thoughts and feelings helps me process my emotions and identify patterns in my behavior. Regular self-reflection has enabled me to become more in tune with my needs and emotions.

Mindfulness: Practicing mindfulness, staying present and aware of my thoughts without judgment. Techniques such as meditation and deep breathing exercises have been instrumental in reducing anxiety and strengthening mood management.

2. Growing: Personal Development and Learning

Setting realistic and achievable goals give me a sense of purpose and direction. Whether it's personal, professional, or health-related, having goals to strive towards keeps me motivated and focused.

Embracing Change: Accepting that change is a natural part of life is liberating. Instead of fearing change, I now see it as an opportunity for growth and self-improvement.

3. Glowing: Self-Care and Positivity

Taking care of myself and fostering a positive mindset has been essential in maintaining my mental health. Glowing from within involves nurturing the body, mind, and spirit.

Gratitude Practice: Focusing on gratitude shifts my perspective and increases my overall happiness. Regularly reflecting on the things I'm thankful for motivates me to cultivate a sense of positivity, allowing me to focus on solutions rather than problems.

Positive Relationships: Building and maintaining relationships with those who uplift and inspire me has created a strong support system that I can rely on during tough times.

Mental Health Maintenance

Prioritizing mental health maintenance is essential for thriving in all areas of life. Empower yourself with knowledge and resources to address the issues you seek to resolve. Surround yourself with people who understand and support you. Friends, family, and community groups can provide emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of belonging.

Create a self-care routine that includes activities that nurture your body, mind, and spirit. This can include exercise, skincare, hobbies, meditation, and adequate rest.

Set Boundaries. Learn to say no. Protect your time and energy at all costs. Prioritize activities and relationships that contribute positively to your well-being.

Consider Therapy. Therapy can be a valuable tool for managing mental health. Especially therapists who have experience working with Black women and understand the challenges you face.

Utilize Community Resources: Many communities offer mental health resources, such as counseling services, workshops, and wellness programs. Take advantage of these resources to support your mental health journey.

Maintaining mental health requires intentional effort and self-compassion. Remember, your mental health is just as important as your physical health, and you deserve to invest in your well-being. Let's continue to support and uplift one another as we navigate this journey together.

Some Things You Can Do to Celebrate Minority Mental Health Month

Make a positive impact on your mental health and the mental health of those around you.

1. Educate Yourself and Others: Understanding the systemic barriers and cultural factors that impact mental health can help you become a more informed and compassionate advocate.

Use your platform—whether it's social media, your workplace, or community groups to share information about minority mental health. Highlight the importance of mental health awareness and provide resources that can help others learn more.

2. Support Minority Mental Health Organizations: Consider donating to organizations that focus on minority mental health. Your contribution can help fund programs, services, and research that address the unique needs of minority communities. Some organizations to consider include the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Mental Health America, and the Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective (BEAM).

Volunteer Your Time: If you're able, volunteer your time with organizations that support minority mental health. Whether it's participating in awareness campaigns, helping to organize events, or providing direct support, your efforts can make a significant difference.

3. Engage in Self-Care and Wellness Activities: Use this month as a reminder to prioritize your own mental health. Do things that bring you joy and relaxation.

Minority Mental Health Month is a good time to re-prioritize your mental health journey. Every step you take toward your own awareness and wellness is a step toward a healthier, more resilient community. Let's celebrate Minority Mental Health Month with intention and purpose, knowing that together, we can create a brighter future for ourselves as well as those around us. Wishing you peace and clarity Queen!

With love and gratitude,

Devony “Deedee” Bailey

This is Good Hair!!!

My hair is as nappy as the roots that penetrate the soil my ancestors nurtured.

My hair is so exotic that if you peel back the secrets of history and science, you will see that they birthed a world, not just a nation.

This is good hair!

So please continue to observe my ten-inch frow with Kenta cloth laid so gently across these blessed edges

Because my hair is so professional that it may inform and/or remind you that my very being defies gravity.

My coils are so versatile, so indigenous, so original.

This is good hair!

So coveted that the purity of my essence has been violated, defiled, stretched, and straightened to fit in a society that was literally stolen from the culture of my heritage.

My hair is so resilient, that my new-growth will continue to sprout even when buried, outcast, or gentrified.

This is good hair!

And you’re mad that my “hair” is so brilliant that it will conform to white-washed standards of beauty in one moment and the next, black girl magic.

 Welcome to Balance, Boundaries, & Black Girl Magic!

Where the endless journey to our highest selves will be nurtured with self-care, support, and sistah-hood.

My name is Devony “Deedee” Bailey. I am the founder of Sistahs IN, author of "Balance & Boundaries: Knowing, Growing and Glowing," and an advocate for BIPOC women, youth, and families. Above all, I am a proud Black woman with a passion for creating and facilitating safe spaces for our communities to thrive.

What to know about this blog?

-We will be posting every Talk About It Tuesday and Thankful Thursday.

- Please engage!!! We want to hear from you, feel free to email or comment with your responses, questions, suggestions, and lovingly constructive feedback.

The Inspiration Behind This Blog

Sistahs In Networking is a community that recognizes and addresses the unique challenges that black women face in their personal and professional lives. Our mission is to empower and uplift black women by creating safe spaces where they can connect, inspire, and support one another. We aim to provide experiences, opportunities, and resources that allow black women to define and achieve success and fulfillment in all aspects of their lives.

The need for a community like Sistahs In Networking is evident from the experiences and struggles that we face. Despite these challenges, black women have continued to inspire and motivate others with their resilience, strength, and determination. I’m here to do my part.

Talk About it Tuesday Topic:

 In celebration of National Crown Day, what’s something you love about your hair? Have you had any experiences that made you feel like your natural beauty was disparaged?

Two days after being called a “crazy person” for wearing my afro to a staff meeting, I wrote the poem above, “This Is Good Hair. ”A few months later, the same individual suggested that the three Black women in the office dress up as the flying monkeys from "The Wizard of Oz" for our team costumes. My immediate thought was, “Damn, haven’t you heard of The Wiz?!”

The amount of shape-shifting that some of us still have to do in order to fit it into certain spaces can be traumatic and degrading in so many ways. Should it always be our job to educate and advocate? No. But it must be done.

National Crown Day

Yesterday was National Crown Day. If you’re not familiar, National Crown Day commemorates The CROWN Act. Created in 2019 by Dove and the CROWN Coalition, in partnership with then State Senator Holly J. Mitchell of California, The CROWN Act ensures protection against discrimination based on race-based hairstyles. It extends statutory protection to hair textures and protective styles such as braids, locs, twists, and knots in the workplace and public schools. To learn more, visit [thecrownact.com](http://thecrownact.com).

So far, 24 states have enacted The CROWN Act or similar legislation.

I feel so conflicted with this holiday but not too conflicted to celebrate. On one hand the efforts that The CROWN Coalition are going through to get this legislation passed nationally is one that should be observed with reverence in the most Hella Black Hella Proud Way! On the other hand…the depths of colonization don’t cease to astound me. Then the next day we celebrate independish day! Lol come on. Anywho, I Digress.

 Despite the rants of frustration, I am grateful for the many movements being made to empower us mentally, physically, and equitably.  I am looking forward to using this platform to share with you Queens all of the wonderful resources and initiatives that are being diligently executed for us and by us.

So Happy Belated Crown Day Sistahs! I pray blessed edges and abundant new growth over your Crowns.

Thankful Thursday

I'm launching this blog on my favorite Sistahs IN Theme Day, “Thankful Thursday”.

Today I'm grateful for self-awareness. It’s like a double-edged sword and takes constant inner work to maintain sometimes but it's worth every moment. Practicing self-awareness helps me stay true to myself, even when I want to express my emotions in the most unhealthy ways. Being in tune with what feelings are triggered in particular situations has saved me from a lot of mistakes. Have there been days when I’ve failed? Yes…it almost happened just yesterday lol.

Being self-aware helps me maintain control of my autonomy. It’s a constant reminder to regulate what matters the most, the only person I should want to control, myself.

Owning who we were, acknowledging who we are, and correcting our course when we veer off the path are acts of immense courage.

It's a dance with vulnerability and resilience, a dance that propels us toward evolution. True self-awareness is not static; it's a dynamic state of being that welcomes growth and transformation.

We can only acknowledge and rectify what we are willing to see. This requires a relentless commitment to peeling away the layers of denial and confronting the uncomfortable truths that lie beneath. It's a courageous act of taking responsibility for our actions, thoughts, and emotions.

As we journey into the depths of self-awareness, we become architects of our own boundaries. Boundaries aren't walls; they're sacred spaces we create to foster our growth.

To know oneself deeply is to embark on a sacred quest. It's a commitment to love and care for every facet of our being. It's about weaving a tapestry of self-awareness, accountability, and continuous boundary adjustments. For in knowing ourselves, we become beacons of authenticity, guiding others to embark on their own journey of self-discovery and care.

We are more than our struggles. We are divine beings, capable of achieving anything we set our minds to. We have resilience and strength that cannot be broken. We are the backbone of our communities, and our presence alone is enough to inspire change in the world. Maya Angelou once said, "I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it."

I've had many wake-up calls that made me realize any situation I felt I had to force myself into was one I didn’t need to be in. True self-awareness is the ability to acknowledge our emotions and express them healthily. It's the ability to set boundaries and prioritize our well-being. The more we are true to ourselves, the more we can trust ourselves.

This may be the shortest blog post I write, but it’s filled with the love and passion.  Here’s to balance, boundaries, and the unstoppable magic of being a Black woman! Thank you for reading Queen!

With love and gratitude,

Devony “Deedee” Bailey