“A person who campaigns to bring about political or social change.”
Never in a million years would I have ever considered myself an activist… I mean, it’s just not how I thought of myself, or a word I would’ve used to describe myself – until I looked it up!
Once I read that, I thought, duh… I’m absolutely, unapologetically an activist. No, you probably won’t find me marching in the front lines, but I have a strong stance on many of the things that go on in the world, and I use my platforms and influence to affect change in a positive way.
Being black, I’ve had the opportunity to see how other ethnicities view us. Being a woman, I’ve experienced what our male counterparts think of us. So, needless to say, being a black woman definitely proves to be “interesting”… and to be a black boss lady, well, that’s something that not everyone is able to understand.
Typically, I have been one to root for the underdog; I gravitate naturally towards those who are shunned or discriminated against – perhaps, because I can easily relate. So, I make it my mission, not to be a victim or throw pity parties, but to find a way to thrive DESPITE the obstacles. And beyond that, my life’s work is to empower others to do the same.
Social – #ImGladToBeAWoman
Established in March 2019, I’m Glad to be a Woman (IGTBAW) is an organization purposed to encourage and empower women. Our mission is to provide a mutually beneficial, full-service support system for women. We believe that every woman needs support, but is also able to support. Every woman needs to be empowered, but is also able to empower. So, depending on the day or the need, each member can find what she requires. Regardless of age, race, education, religion, geography, financial, political or marital status… if you are a woman, you belong HERE!!! For more, visit the website: imgladtobeawoman.com
Political – Green Party
I have NEVER and I mean NEVER been into politics. Granted, I’ve voted since I was 18 – it was my civic duty, right? However, I never really understood why I was voting for the respective individuals other than the fact that they were Democrats. The way I was always (erroneously) taught was that poor and black or poor, black people vote Democratic; rich, white people vote Republican. Perhaps more was said and I just caught the cliff notes, but in either case, for most of my adult life, I was misinformed and uneducated. I had no clue what the candidates stood for; if I’m truthful, I didn’t really know what the democratic party believed. I just voted the way I was taught.
It wasn’t until 2020, while doing research for one of my social media broadcasts, that I discovered the Green Party. I’m a little embarrassed to admit that I had never even heard of the Green Party. However, once I read about them and their beliefs, I immediately decided that if I was going to support a political party, it would be the Greens. After all, their core values align with my own; the fact that they are independent was just icing on the cake!
In December 2021, they endorsed me to run for Commissioner of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District. A couple months later, I was appointed to serve as the Chairwoman of the Cook County Green Party. Even with these titles and responsibilities, I still don’t consider myself a politician – more like a public servant whose job is to help keep the people informed!
If you desire to learn more about the Green Party, visit: www.ilgp.org
