“I’m convinced that we Black women possess a special indestructible strength that allows us to not only get down, but to get up, to get through, and to get over.”
Janet Jackson
Generations of Black women have carried within them the strength, resilience, and courage of their foremothers. From the challenges of slavery to the ongoing struggles against systemic racism, Black women have faced adversity head-on and emerged as pillars of their communities. In this journey, they have inherited generational trauma and an enduring legacy of fortitude. We have taken an enduring position of a Black woman that we do not recognize what is missing in our lives and feel we do not deserve to be helped. We are often told, “Never show weakness until you’re alone behind closed doors,” because you need to keep standing as a “superwoman.” Most Black women find themselves in confusion, fear, and shame from a history of rape, domestic abuse, racism, and discrimination at all levels.
I believe Black women can tap into their remarkable resilience and courage to heal the wounds of the past and create a brighter future. How can we do this?
We need to understand what Generational Trauma means.
Generational trauma refers to the emotional and psychological scars passed down through generations due to historical and systemic injustices. For Black women, this trauma is deeply rooted in the history of slavery, segregation, and ongoing racial discrimination. Acknowledging this trauma is the first step toward healing.
“The answer to why so many of us have difficulties is because our ancestors spent centuries here under unrelentingly brutal conditions. Generation after generation, our bodies stored trauma and intense survival energy, and passed these on to our children and grandchildren. Most of us also passed down resilience and love, of course. But, as we saw with my grandmother—and as we see with so many other human beings—resilience and love aren’t sufficient to completely heal all trauma. Often, at least some of the trauma continues”
Resmaa Menakem, My Grandmother’s Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Pathway to Mending Our Hearts and Bodies
Recognizing our Resilience
Before delving into healing, it’s essential to celebrate the strength and resilience that define Black women. Their stories of triumph over adversity are a testament to the unyielding spirit that has characterized generations of Black women.
“I was built this way for a reason, so I’m going to use it.“
Simone Biles
Healing Begins with Self
To heal generational trauma, it’s crucial for Black women to embark on a journey of self-discovery and self-care. Here are some steps to consider:
- Seek Help
Find ways that can help you personally. Professional help—therapy or counseling—can provide a safe space to address the emotional scars of generational trauma. Look for therapists who specialize in trauma and cultural competence.
- Build or Join Supportive Communities
As Martin Luther King Jnr. said “we must learn to live together as sisters [brothers] or else we perish together …” Find or create communities that understand and validate your experiences. Share stories, exchange advice, and provide mutual support in a space where you can be your authentic self.
“Each time a woman stands up for herself, without knowing it possibly, without claiming it, she stands up for all women.”
Maya Angelou
- Embrace Cultural Healing Practices
Reconnecting with cultural roots and embracing ancestral healing practices can be empowering. This may include exploring traditions, rituals, or spirituality that resonate with your heritage. These practices encompass a holistic approach to healing, addressing not only physical health but also emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. We can engage in storytelling, our spirituality and religion, traditional herbal remedies, dance, foods, music and drum therapy, traditional clothing and adornments, meditation, mindfulness, and community support.
- Practice Self-Care
Prioritize self-care routines that nurture your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. This might involve mindfulness, meditation, exercise, or creative outlets.
What we really have to do is take a day and sit down and think. The world is not going to end or fall apart. Jobs won’t be lost. Kids will not run crazy in one day. Lovers won’t stop speaking to you. Husbands and wives are not going to disappear. Just take that one day and think. Don’t read. Don’t write. No television, no radio, no distractions. Sit down and think. . . . Go sit in a church, or in the park, or take a long walk and think. Call it a healing day.
Maya Angelou
- Embrace Identity and Self-Love
Embrace your unique identity as a Black woman and cultivate self-love. Acceptance and self-compassion are powerful tools for healing. You are the big story the world is waiting for.
“I want women and girls of African descent and of color to be able to not have to keep searching for stories about themselves.”
Danai Gurira
Passing Down Resilience
Black women play a pivotal role in breaking the cycle of generational trauma. By passing down resilience and courage to the next generation, they can contribute to a brighter future.
“Raise [your girls] with vigilance, but not fear.”
Tarana Burke
Advocacy and Empowerment
Channeling resilience and courage into advocacy efforts is a potent way to effect change. Many Black women are at the forefront of social justice movements, working tirelessly to dismantle the systems that perpetuate trauma.
“At its best, activism is a form of healing. It is about what we do and how we show up in the world. It is about learning and expressing regard, compassion and love.”
Resmaa Menakem
Inspiring Role Models
Throughout history and today, there are countless inspirational Black women who have not only survived but thrived in the face of generational trauma. Their stories serve as a source of hope and motivation.
Creating a Future of Healing
Imagine a future where generational trauma is gradually healed and Black women continue to be strong pillars of their communities. The legacy of courage and resilience will be passed on to future generations, creating a more equitable and just world. The resilience of Black women is a source of inspiration and a driving force for positive change. Their determination to overcome adversity, advocate for justice, and uplift their communities is a testament to the indomitable spirit that characterizes Black women throughout history and into the present day.
“I work really hard to try and see the beauty in everything, even though it’s not always easy.”
Naomi Campbell
In conclusion, Black women have a profound well of resilience and courage within them. By acknowledging the generational trauma they carry and taking proactive steps toward healing, they can transform pain into power. In doing so, they honor the struggles of their ancestors and become beacons of hope and strength for generations to come. Through unity, self-love, and advocacy, Black women can forge a path toward a future where generational trauma is replaced with generational healing and empowerment.
“A healed Black woman is a force to be reckoned with.”
― Bethanee Epifani J. Bryant
The Feminist Health CIC 