We started this blog because we were always talking: text, email, DMs on all social platforms, occasionally even phone calls. But this summer, we got quiet. So we decided to write about it.
Katura: We took an unintentional hiatus from our blog this summer. We were busy with multiple projects, but that’s always been the case. And there was definitely plenty going on in the world to talk about. Too much, actually. Maybe that’s why we were quiet?
Bria: I unknowingly unplugged. Looking back I was very overwhelmed by what was happening in the world. My work centers Black girls and women and Black girls and women need so much support for so many reasons. I was consulting with organizations about diversity, equity and inclusion, and it’s hard at times to see light at the end of a very profit-driven tunnel. I was having multiple conversations that left me empty. I was struggling with the faith community and its role in healing folks during times of crisis. It was a lot. So getting quiet was probably the compromise I made with myself between processing what was going on in the world and protecting my energy. What do you think made you quiet?
Katura: I hear you on the convos that leave you empty. When your work involves community building, social justice, inclusion and equity strategy - it requires sustained commitment. There are no quick fixes especially when so many people still don’t acknowledge the system is the problem and a social media post won’t fix it. I’m not an activist or organizer, but this summer I was overwhelmed. Same injustices, different day. Staying informed, engaged, focused on impact, holding space for others — none of that is optional for me. But blowing up a friend’s inbox with news that makes us both feel this work isn’t working? Totally optional. So I opted out.
What’s interesting is that it was weeks before we realized we had gotten quiet. We made our decisions independently out of self-preservation (and sisterly consideration). Now we sometimes share articles with a disclaimer: ‘FYI. I didn’t read this yet bc I want to have a good day.’
Katura: How do you know you need a break? Is there one tell-tale sign for you?
Bria: I don’t get easily distracted. I do pretty well at managing to do lists and prioritizing tasks. So, when I look up and there’s a long list of not done or a pile of unfinished things, it hits me that I’m doing too much and need to regroup, reenergize and/or reprioritize. More than anything this pandemic has taught me to slow down and prune. What about you? Is there something specific you do when you realize you need a break?
Katura: I often plow through my To Do lists even when I’m overwhelmed. What’s different is my energy. I become highly annoyed about what I’m doing and that people are requesting even more from me. I’m learning to pay attention to those feelings and set better boundaries so I’m not reacting to overwhelm but preventing it. I have a long way to go. Lol. But what’s working for me so far is being vocal about my boundaries, giving myself a whole day or two to relax and have (socially distant) fun — no work. And then actually leaving the house, which is where most of the work is these days.
Bria: The end of summer is upon us. COVID-19 derailed summer 2020 plans and the “smell from a grill could spark up nostalgia” kind of summer we were looking forward to was all but eliminated by social distancing and safety precautions necessary to protect folks from the transmission of the Coronavirus. Fun may have not been as accessible this summer, but protests highlighting racial inequality, inequity and injustice in this country were front and center. August has a deep connection to the civil rights movement with many moments in civil rights history taking place in August. Taking into account where this nation is right now, what’s your hope for August 2021?
Katura: I thought you were going to ask about my hope for fall of THIS year. A whole year from now?? I gotta be honest, I’m trying not to get far ahead of myself these days. There’s a lot of worry there. I’m trying to be more grounded in the present. That said, I hope by this time next year that more companies and organizations are doing the (equity) work, not just talking and writing about it. We saw the statements this summer. A year from now I want to see the actions that will back them up. And I hope that marginalized, underresourced groups will be centered in the change we’re fighting for, just not in bearing responsibility for doing that work.
Bria: Speaking of hope, I HOPE we continue to see beautiful Black women showcasing their talents on Verzuz battles! The buzz and buildup to Brandy and Monica, and most recently Patti and Gladys was almost as entertaining as the “battle” itself! I had a great time watching all of it! Who would like to see in an upcoming Verzuz battle in the fall?
Katura: How amazing was that Verzuz?? Ms. Gladys and Ms Patti gave a show!! And I absolutely participated in the hype. My Verzuz dinner was the pre-show! Now I don’t know who I’d match her up with but I’d love to see Chaka Khan play some joints and share some stories. And Missy! Lyte vs Latifah could be dope. I Love how Verzuz pivoted from a straight up battle to a celebration. We need that.
Bria: Now I’m thinking about food and wine pairings for the battles you just named!
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Bria R. Griffith is a multi-industry organizational leader on a mission to connect community and business to implement strategies that promote social and economic equity. Katura Hudson is a writer and strategist with a passion for community; diversity, equity & inclusion; and New Edition.
