when Black Women lead, The Bullying Gets Louder. Here’s How We Stay Unshaken.
Leading with a commitment to social and economic justice is rarely met with open arms. At ULMS, one of the nation’s oldest civil rights organizations, we’ve seen firsthand how progress can ignite opposition. Our staff, overwhelmingly comprised of Black women, intentionally mirrors the community we serve – a reflection that fuels our dedication and grounds our work in lived experience.We are the people we’re here to uplift.
The impact of our efforts over the past year speaks for itself. We’ve provided business Development assistance to 120 entrepreneurs, empowered over 100 families to achieve homeownership through down payment assistance, and alleviated financial strain for 1000 residents with debt reduction programs. Beyond that, we’ve reached over 500 youth with vital mentorship, wrap-around services, and educational support, both in and out of school. Furthermore, nearly 200 young people have been connected to career pathways through our Career Bridge program, gaining certifications, securing jobs, pursuing further education, or entering the trades.
These aren’t simply statistics; they represent tangible improvements in the lives of real people.Yet, impactful work inevitably attracts scrutiny – and sometimes, outright hostility.
It’s a pattern our foremothers understood well, and one we must navigate with unwavering resolve. For women of color leading this crucial work, maintaining strength and focus requires intentional strategies. Here are a few that have sustained me:
Know Your Mission – And Have the Data to Prove It. When facing criticism, understand that the attack isn’t just on you, but on the very foundation of your association and the team you’ve built. Remain firmly rooted in your objectives and demonstrable outcomes. A meticulous record is your strongest defense. Master your organization’s finances and mission statement – know them better than your opponents know their arguments. When confronted with negativity, respond with facts.
Build a Circle of Protection. isolation is a tactic used to undermine your strength. Resist it. Cultivate a small, unwavering network of Black women who understand the unique pressures you face. For me, that circle includes Josalyn Ford and Linda Taylor, whose support is invaluable, especially during challenging times. They are the bedrock upon which I lean for strength and outlook.
Prioritize Rest as Strategic Resistance. Remember the story of Elijah in the bible, who replenished his strength with food and rest before facing his next challenge. Those who seek to diminish your impact want you depleted, exhausted, and ultimately, silenced. Don’t allow them that victory. Protect your mental and emotional wellbeing, and prioritize genuine rest – it’s not a luxury, but a vital component of effective leadership. You cannot lead effectively when running on empty.
Control the Narrative. Don’t be drawn into unproductive conflicts on your opponent’s terms. Choose your battles wisely. Utilize your voice strategically, selecting the platforms, timing, and messaging that best serve your mission. Respond only when it advances your goals, not their agenda. True power lies not in reacting to every attack,but in confidently articulating your truth above the noise.
Recognize That Attacks Are a Sign of Threat. When facing intense opposition, remember this: bullies target those who challenge the status quo. If they’re coming for you with such force, it’s because your work is making a difference. The attacks aren’t evidence of failure; they’re proof that you’re disrupting a system designed to exclude and marginalize. Let that realization be your fuel.
My experience has taught me that overcoming negativity isn’t about escalating conflict, but about remaining steadfast. It’s about knowing your worth and refusing to allow anyone to define you. It’s about upholding the principles instilled in me by my father – standing firm in your convictions. So, maintain your strong posture, keep your mission clear, and hold your circle close. The opposition relies on tired tactics, and we’ve seen them all before. We have far too much work to do to be deterred now.
Michelle Merriweather is the President & CEO of ULMS, one of the country’s oldest civil rights organizations.
