IF you must play, make sure you play to win.
The societal expectation for Black women to love by conformity — to adhere to traditional roles and remain within the confines of our communities — stifles our growth and happiness. We are expected to prioritize the community’s expectations over our own personal ideals.
In order to break free from our reductive environments, we sometimes must take part in stupid games. And stupid games are a favorite pastime within the Black community, especially Black men when they want to absolve themselves of responsibility.
The Need for Empowering a New Community
The stupidest game of all is one in which Black women accept racial biases imposed upon them by Black men.
Black men ignore, dismiss, and undervalue Black women’s experiences and perspectives either because we’re black, because we’re female, or both — and have no problem disrespecting us in front of other people.
The community’s Panafrican cultural dynamic is nuanced, but it’s there. Collectively, all Black people can relate to certain role models or experiences. We all know that no matter where they go among other Black people — even on different continents — that an ongoing power struggle persists among a loud collective of self-hating Black men who seek validation, and an even louder but less effective group who lack direction and the ability to self-regulate when they encounter each other.
The Power of Networks
Divesting Black women can connect with and support other Black women who have finally had enough.
There are no spaces where black women can express themselves freely and authentically without fear of being degraded. Escaping the toxicity that Black cultures appropriate to Black men is critical in restoring your self-esteem.
If you can find a professional network, start there. Professional networks focused on Black women pair you with successful mentors, career development workshops, and professional skills and prospects, which allow us more opportunities to build success.
Networking to reach your long-term goals is one of the most critical decisions you could ever make for your life. Don’t wait for the Black community to build businesses, networks, and groups honoring your efforts or livelihood. Venture out. Build new relationships and find your own peace of mind by spending time with people outside your race and economic class, and whose ideologies differ from yours. Learn to observe what else in the world may be true and you’ll learn why Black women need to advocate for ourselves more.
Black women often spearhead movements that address disparities in healthcare and education. But more of our movements should focus on how we can position ourselves for success. Investing in ourselves can force a broader change in which more Black women thrive.
For us, the future lucrative and inclusive once we stop putting a community full of men who devalue us first. Only stupid people want stupid prizes.
Black Women Divesting 
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