In a powerful display of community and resilience, Black women are leading an urgent call to action to confront the economic inequality and attacks on equity that are hitting their communities hard. At the recent Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s conference, the Black Women’s Roundtable centered a major discussion around the theme, “Black Women Reclaiming Our Economic and Civic Power in Challenging Times.”
This event wasn’t just talk. Following federal layoffs and a rollback of diversity initiatives, the Black unemployment rate has spiked. Tameka Ramsey-Brown, a powerful voice for Black women-owned small businesses, spoke to the pain and necessity of their resilience. “We are the ones who, when things go bad, people look to us,” she said, highlighting the unyielding strength required to provide for families and communities no matter what.
Panelists made it clear that this isn’t a moment for solo acts. LaTosha Brown of Black Voters Matter emphasized the need for a strong village, urging people to work together rather than alone. Bishop Leah Daughtry, a founder of Power Rising, added to the energy with a powerful message: “It is not enough to simply have a seat at the table. Sometimes we are going to have to build the table, and sometimes we are going to have to flip the table.”
Another key conversation at the conference focused on the ongoing fight for Black workers’ rights. Leaders across education and public service discussed how to expand freedom and opportunity in a climate where public education is under attack and unions are losing members. Everett Kelley, president of the American Federation of Government Employees, put it bluntly: “The power is not in Congress… The power is in us.”
Both panels urged a return to grassroots organizing and collective action. It’s about more than waiting for permission or a position; it’s about knowing when it’s time to show up. As activist Tamika Mallory said, “We don’t need anyone to choose us… We know that it is time.”
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