Growing up in Chicago in the ’80s and ’90s, I went to school just down the street from Kenwood High School, where award-winning singer, songwriter, and producer R. Kelly notoriously preyed on young black girls. We all knew it was happening. When I was 17, at a
When Issa Rae stated, in an interview at the 2017 Oscars, “I’m rooting for everybody black,” I knew immediately, that was my new life motto. I am unapologetically black, and no matter what space I am in, I am rooting for everybody black. I think
During this time of global pandemic, my Sister n’ Love hosted a zoom meeting to check on the mental health of all the black women in her friends and family circle. The people on the conference call ranged from a doctor; to a geneticist; to
As a woman, I lived through and survived intimate partner violence. I remember the day we met. He was so charming and sweet. After moving in with him, he was the perfect mate. Within six months, he started beating me every day. He sat in
As a sexual health educator and parent, I have frequent discussions with family, friends, teachers, and etc. asking me when should trusted adults have “The Talk” with the children/youth/young adults in their lives. My answer is simple, “it’s not just one talk, but several.” If
March 10, 2019—The Black Women’s Health Imperative’s On Our Own Terms (OOOT) Collaborative is spreading the word about Women and Girls and HIV Day today. And we know that we must continue to create awareness and support for black women and girls every single day.
You’re a great friend. You’re ready and willing to help your loved ones work through anything that has come their way. You are prepared to always be there for them. But then, something comes along that you’re not prepared for: Your loved one has HIV