The Relentless Burden of Black Women in Preserving U.S. Democracy

Black women should be exhausted from attempting to save this nation’s democracy.

Despite the systemic racism and sexism that Black women in politics continue to encounter, for decades, they have played an instrumental role in advancing and maintaining democracy in this nation. Black women have orchestrated major movements, turned out in record numbers in the polls, oftentimes changing the trajectory of election outcomes, and have fought to occupy spaces that are given to their male counterparts without much consideration. Black women are the backbone of this nation’s democracy and still, our credibility and capacity to lead are constantly called into question.

There is one exception – Michelle Obama. Recent polls point to the former First Lady, Michelle Obama, being the only Democrat who has a chance at beating Donald Trump in November’s election. Despite the fact that she’s said countless times she has no interest in running for president, the American people still hope she will save us from impending doom. Trailing "Forever FLOTUS," Michelle Obama, who is in the polls as a contender capable of beating Donald Trump, is Vice President Kamala Harris. Despite Black women's persistent barriers to achieving equality, people increasingly acknowledge their revolutionary impact.

But trust me, Black women are tired of wearing capes.

And yes, in theory, all women are fighting the patriarchy and working to prove themselves as capable – just look at the 2016 election with Hilary Clinton. The patriarchy did everything to discredit her accomplishments and capacity to lead this country (and look how that turned out). If “The System” simply doesn’t like ambitious, intelligent, assertive women, it certainly despises Black women unwilling to compromise their values in their pursuit to fight oppression.

Black women are exhausted.

As they continue to mobilize communities for social and political change, the American people must decide whether they want Black women to continue carrying the burden of maintaining democracy or whether the fight for equity and justice is the responsibility of us all. Criminal justice reform, reproductive rights, our economy, equitable opportunities in higher education, and workplace environments are all in jeopardy, and like always, Black women are expected to rally the troops and save the day.

We are tired. Please let us rest.

Dr. Mills Cox is available for interviews and additional commentary. For more information contact: brandale@drbrandale.com.