April 2025

Legacy Building for Black Women: How to Pass Down Wisdom, Knowledge, and Financial Security We’re living through one of the largest wealth transfers in modern history as the Baby Boomer generation begins to pass down their assets. According to NBC News, an estimated $84 trillion will change hands over the next few decades. But who’s actually inheriting? About 35% of white Americans are expected to receive an inheritance, compared to just 13% of Black Americans. And the amounts? Significantly less. As highlighted in this Federal Reserve report, the racial wealth gap is not just persistent, it is systemic. We suspect Canadian numbers mirror this reality. Many Black families here are newcomers, still in the early stages of wealth building, while white families often benefit from generations of accumulated capital. The question isn’t just about who’s inheriting. It’s about whoever had the chance to build in the first place. Legacy is not just the material things we leave behind, it’s about the values, wisdom, and impact we impart to the generations that follow. Building a legacy is uniquely powerful. It encompasses the preservation of cultural heritage, the transmission of invaluable knowledge, and the cultivation of financial security. In a world that often marginalizes Black communities, intentionally crafting a legacy ensures that our stories, experiences, and resources continue to empower and uplift future generations.   1. Preserving Wisdom: The Power of Storytelling For generations, Black Women have been the heart of their communities, the keepers of cultural knowledge, and the storytellers who pass down the history of struggles, triumphs, and lessons learned. Storytelling is a powerful tool that ensures our wisdom is not lost, but cherished and continued by those who come after us. Whether shared verbally or through written words, storytelling allows us to pass down life lessons, cultural practices, and personal experiences. It serves as a way to keep our families and communities connected, even across generations. Ways to preserve and pass down wisdom: Record Family Histories: One of the most effective ways to preserve your legacy is by documenting family histories. You can do this by recording interviews with your elders or creating written stories and journals that detail important life moments and lessons learned. Digital platforms like podcasts or YouTube can also be great mediums for capturing these stories. Create a Personal Journal or Memoir: Writing down your own experiences and reflections not only helps you process your journey but also provides future generations with a glimpse into your life. This can serve as a source of strength and guidance for them when they face their own challenges. Teach Cultural Practices: From family recipes to spiritual rituals, passing down cultural practices helps maintain a sense of identity. Consider creating family recipe books, organizing cultural events, or even teaching younger generations the dances, songs, or prayers that have been passed down in your family. Document Your Wisdom Through Blogs or Social Media: Digital platforms allow for easy sharing of life lessons and wisdom. You can use blogs, podcasts, or social media platforms to share your story and lessons with a wider audience, ensuring that your wisdom reaches beyond just your immediate family. 2. Knowledge Transfer: Mentorship and Education One of the most profound ways to build a legacy is through knowledge transfer. For Black Women, mentorship can be life-changing, offering guidance and insight that empowers others to reach their full potential. The knowledge you acquire throughout your life, whether through education, career experience, or personal growth, is an invaluable resource that can create opportunities for others. By sharing this knowledge, you contribute not only to the growth of individuals but to the broader success of your community. Ways to transfer knowledge and mentor others: Mentorship and Professional Development: Seek out opportunities to mentor young Black Women or girls. Whether it’s through formal programs or informal guidance, mentorship allows you to share insights about career development, overcoming challenges, and making informed decisions. By lifting others as you rise, you create a ripple effect of success. Establish Scholarships and Grants: One way to give back and support the education of future generations is by establishing scholarships or funding educational programs. Consider supporting Black students pursuing careers in fields where they are underrepresented. Your financial contribution could be the key that unlocks new doors of opportunity for someone who wouldn’t otherwise have access. Host Workshops or Online Courses: With the advent of digital platforms, teaching is no longer confined to the classroom. Create online workshops or courses that share your professional expertise, life skills, or cultural knowledge. Platforms like Skillshare, Teachable, or even YouTube allow you to share your knowledge with a wider audience, helping people build the skills they need to succeed in their own lives. Create Knowledge-Sharing Platforms: Consider creating a blog, podcast, or YouTube channel where you can share your experiences, expertise, and advice. This serves not only as a form of mentorship but also as a means of reaching people across the globe, offering guidance and support to those who may need it most. 3. Building Financial Security: Generational Wealth & Investment Let’s not forget the power of financial inheritance. One of the most powerful ways to ensure a lasting legacy is through financial security. However, building generational wealth requires intentional planning, financial literacy, and the willingness to make long-term investments. Historically, Black families have faced barriers to accumulating wealth, but by changing our financial mindsets and educating ourselves, we can break these cycles and ensure future generations are financially secure. Steps to build and pass down financial security: Estate Planning: One of the most important aspects of wealth-building is creating a plan for your assets. By setting up a will, trust, or estate plan, you ensure that your wealth is distributed according to your wishes. This protects your family and provides them with a strong financial foundation. Invest in Real Estate and Other Assets: Real estate is one of the most effective ways to build and pass down wealth. If possible, consider investing in property that

The Loneliness of Outgrowing People: When Healing Means Leaving Folks Behind We know that growth isn’t just about working on yourself-it’s also about the people you surround yourself with. As you evolve, you might start to realize that some relationships no longer fit. It’s tough. It can feel like losing a part of your past, but making space for new, healthier connections is part of the journey. That said, we need to talk about how we let go. Too often, we take a “cut them off” approach that leaves unnecessary damage in its wake. We ghost, we block, we pretend people never mattered-unless it’s a romantic relationship, in which case we often handle things with more care. But if we don’t learn how to part ways with respect, we risk ruining valuable connections and burning bridges we may one day need. Let’s get into what it really means to outgrow people and how to do it with grace. 1. The Emotional Toll of Realizing Some Friendships and Family Dynamics No Longer Work As we grow mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, we start to see how certain relationships hold us back. A friend you used to vibe with might now drain your energy. Family dynamics might feel misaligned with your priorities. That realization is hard. It can feel like losing a part of yourself, a version of you that belonged in that space. But real growth means stepping away from what no longer serves you, even when it hurts. It’s okay to grieve the past-it’s part of the process. 2. The Guilt of Choosing Yourself When Others Expect You to Stay the Same It’s normal to feel guilty when you realize you have to choose yourself over others, especially when they expect you to remain the same person they’ve always known. This guilt often stems from a fear of letting others down, but it’s essential to recognize that prioritizing your growth isn’t a betrayal—it’s a form of self-care. Relationships change, and that’s okay. Choosing yourself doesn’t mean rejecting others, but rather honouring the person you’re becoming. As hard as it may be, it’s important to give yourself permission to evolve, even if it means outgrowing people along the way. 3. How to Gracefully Distance Yourself from Relationships That No Longer Align Distancing yourself from people who no longer align with your values doesn’t have to be dramatic or painful. The key is to approach these changes with grace, compassion, and clarity. Be open with those you’re distancing yourself from. Acknowledge what they’ve brought to your life and express your gratitude for those moments. Then, gently explain that you’re focusing on your own growth and need space to continue your personal journey. Honesty is essential, but so is kindness. It’s possible to honour the past while embracing the future, without burning bridges. 4. The Beauty of Creating Space for New, Aligned Connections While letting go can be painful, it’s also liberating. By clearing space in your life, you allow room for new relationships that are more in line with the person you’re becoming. These new connections are likely to be more aligned with your values, passions, and goals. They will encourage and challenge you to grow further, creating a supportive environment where you can thrive. Remember that the right people will find their way into your life when you make room for them. The beauty of personal growth lies in the way it naturally draws in the right people who resonate with your authentic self. 5. Learning That Solitude Is Sometimes Necessary Before Finding True Community The process of outgrowing people often leads to a period of solitude. This period of being alone might seem daunting at first, but it’s essential for rediscovering who you are at your core. Solitude gives you the space to reconnect with yourself, understand your values, and reflect on the kind of relationships you want moving forward. It is through this time of introspection that you’ll build the foundation for deeper, more authentic connections. Embrace the stillness. It’s in these quiet moments that you’ll come to understand what true community feels like and be ready to welcome it into your life.     6. Pushing Through Self-Doubt Let’s talk about imposter syndrome. That little voice that says, “Who do you think you are?”—yeah, it’s lying. The only way to silence it is to take action. Confidence comes from DOING, not waiting until you feel ready.The reality is, no one has it all figured out. The difference between those who succeed and those who don’t is that successful people take action despite their doubts. You belong in every room you step into. Own it. Actionable Step: Whenever self-doubt creeps in, remind yourself of a time when you succeeded at something you were scared to do. Let that be proof that you can do hard things. 7. Prioritizing Your Well-Being Chasing your purpose should feel energizing, not draining. Make sure you’re checking in with yourself and setting boundaries. Rest, recharge, and remember—you can’t pour from an empty cup. Self-care isn’t just about bubble baths and face masks (though those are great too!). It’s also about protecting your peace, saying no to distractions, and making space for joy. Burnout isn’t a badge of honor—your purpose should add to your life, not take away from it. Actionable Step: Schedule in self-care just like you would a work meeting. Whether it’s therapy, journaling, or simply getting enough sleep, taking care of yourself is a non-negotiable. Conclusion: Your Purpose, Your Rules Your purpose isn’t about perfection—it’s about alignment. It’s about feeling good in your own skin and making choices that bring you joy. You don’t have to wait for the perfect moment to start—you just have to take the first step. The most important thing? Give yourself grace. Your journey is uniquely yours, and there’s no deadline for finding your passion. What’s one thing you can do today to move closer to your purpose? Go do that. You got this! Love and power,

Black Women: We Have the Highest Infertility Rate. Here’s What We Can Do Let’s keep it 100, infertility affects everyone, but for Black Women, the burden is heavier, the silence louder, and the resources fewer. The Velma Carter Centre, we believe in flipping that narrative with truth, care, and community. So let’s unpack this layered issue with facts, science, and actionable steps. The Infertility Gap Is Real — And It’s Backed By Data Multiple studies confirm what Black Women have been experiencing for decades. A study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that Black Women are nearly twice as likely to experience infertility compared to white women, even after adjusting for socioeconomic and lifestyle factors (Wellons et al., 2008). But that’s not where it ends. Only 8% of Black Women seek fertility treatment, compared to 15% of white women (Jain, 2006). That’s not because we don’t want to grow our families — it’s because access, trust, and equity are still missing in reproductive healthcare. A 2021 CDC report on Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) found that Black Women have lower success rates for IVF, even when controlling for age and diagnosis (CDC ART Report, 2021). It’s a stark example of medical inequity that can’t be ignored. Underlying Conditions Disproportionately Affect Us Fertility doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Our reproductive health is often compromised by conditions that are both underdiagnosed and undertreated in Black communities: Uterine Fibroids Black Women are three times more likely to develop uterine fibroids than white women, and they develop them at younger ages and in more severe forms (Baird et al., 2003). Fibroids can cause pain, heavy bleeding, and infertility — yet most of us are told to just “deal with it.” Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) PCOS is a hormonal disorder that disrupts ovulation and affects up to 1 in 10 women globally. While research on racial disparities in PCOS is still developing, studies suggest that Black Women with PCOS have higher insulin resistance and cardiovascular risks, making it harder to manage symptoms that impact fertility (Azziz et al., 2016). Endometriosis Though once thought to be rare in Black Women (because we were historically excluded from research), newer findings show that Black Women are less likely to be diagnosed, despite presenting with more severe symptoms (Bougie et al., 2019). Endometriosis causes uterine tissue to grow outside the uterus, creating inflammation and scarring that blocks fertility. Barriers to Fertility Treatment Cost & Coverage Gaps Fertility care is expensive — period. A single round of IVF in North America costs anywhere between $12,000 and $20,000, not including medications or follow-ups. Black Women are less likely to have private insurance coverage, and many state or provincial programs offer little to no fertility support. A study in Health Affairs highlighted how racial minorities are consistently underserved in reproductive technologies, citing that Black Women are underrepresented in fertility clinics and face longer delays in care (Dieke et al., 2017). Cultural & Social Stigma In many African and Caribbean households, conversations around infertility are still taboo. This silence can be deadly. When fertility struggles are seen as personal failure or punishment, women internalize guilt and delay seeking support, sometimes until it’s too late. So What Can We Actually Do About It? We’re not powerless. Our stories matter. And science, advocacy, and healing can help us reclaim control. 1. Get a Full Fertility Workup Early Don’t wait until you’re trying to conceive to check on your reproductive health. By age 30, ask for: Hormone tests (AMH, FSH, LH)   Pelvic ultrasound to check for fibroids or cysts   Thyroid function tests   Vitamin D levels (Black Women are often deficient, and low levels are linked to poor fertility outcomes)   Pro tip: Ask your doctor to test on day 2–4 of your cycle for best hormone accuracy. 2. Understand Your Options Even if you’re not ready for kids now, it helps to know what’s out there: Egg Freezing: Ideal in your late 20s to early 30s to preserve fertility IUI/IVF: Options for couples or individuals ready to conceive Acupuncture & Lifestyle Medicine: Shown to improve egg quality and fertility rates     3. Join the Movement — Not Just the Struggle There’s power in community. These orgs are out here fighting for us: Fertility for Colored Girls: Offering support, spiritual guidance, and financial help. The Cade Foundation: Grants for fertility treatment and adoption. The Broken Brown Egg: A blog and resource hub dedicated to Black infertility stories. Black Mamas Matter Alliance: Advocacy for reproductive justice and maternal health equity. Let’s Normalize Fertility Conversations Talking about infertility won’t make it disappear, but it will make us stronger. You are not broken. You are not less of a woman. And you are not alone. At the Velma Carter Centre, we’re not just starting conversations — we’re building safe, inclusive, evidence-based spaces to heal, learn, and thrive. Whether you’re preparing for motherhood, in the middle of treatments, or just need to feel seen, we’re with you every step of the way. Let’s break the stigma and center our health, our choices, and our futures. 💛 Love and power, Velma Carter Centre  JOIN OUR COMMUNITY References Wellons, M. F., et al. (2008). Racial differences in self-reported infertility and risk factors for infertility in a cohort of Black and White women. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Link Jain, T. (2006). Socioeconomic and racial disparities among infertility patients seeking care. Fertility and Sterility. Link CDC ART Fertility Report, 2021. Link Baird, D. D., et al. (2003). High cumulative incidence of uterine leiomyoma in Black and White women. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Link Azziz, R., et al. (2016). Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Endocrine Reviews. Link Bougie, O., et al. (2019). The impact of race and ethnicity on the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis: a systematic review. BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. Link Dieke, A. C., et al. (2017). Racial and ethnic disparities in access to and utilization of infertility services in

Cancel Culture: A Closer Look at How It Impacts Black Communities In today’s world, cancel culture has become a go-to response for dealing with people and situations that rub us the wrong way. But what happens when cancelling isn’t just for public figures or influencers, but for people in our own lives—our family, friends, and loved ones. We’re taking a deeper look at how cancel culture is affecting our Black communities and why we need to think twice before cutting ties, especially when it comes to relationships that matter. What is Cancel Culture? Cancel culture is when people stop supporting someone, usually a celebrity or public figure, because of something they said or did that others find offensive or wrong. This often happens online, especially on social media. For example, if a famous actor says something hurtful or disrespectful, people might call for others to stop watching their movies or following them. The goal is to hold the person accountable. Does it work? It turns out when people are wealthy, being “cancelled” online has little effect on their bank account and opportunities. The pattern is to issue a hollow apology, then lay low and weather the temporary outrage before assuming business as usual. When a regular person is caught saying or doing harmful things they can lose their job as the negative attention reflects poorly on their employer. This can be a permanent job loss, but we know of local cases where that same person is quietly hired back when the furor dies down. In these cases, we also notice the person is not Black. Cancel Culture, Social Justice and Black Communities Cancel culture started as a way for marginalized voices to hold powerful individuals accountable in movements such as #MeToo. Wealth and the intersecting forms of privilege are notorious protections that provide impunity for serious harm done to the less powerful. But over time, cancelling has become more than an accountability tool for those whom the odds are stacked against—it’s started to creep into personal relationships. For Black communities, cancel culture holds even more weight. We’ve seen so much trauma throughout history, from the transatlantic slave trade of yesterday to the economic struggles of today, that sometimes our response to pain or betrayal is to mount a public attack or shut down and cut people off completely. While this may seem like self-preservation, it can often do more harm than good.  We have to ask ourselves: Are we truly winning, or are we just reinforcing cycles of violence and abuse? Why Do We Cancel in the First Place? For some, cancelling often stems from deep wounds—betrayal, broken trust, or toxic behaviour. When someone crosses a boundary or behaves in a way that feels harmful, it’s natural to want to protect ourselves and our mental health. For others, it stems from a desire for attention and the rush one gets when the likes and validating statements flood the comment section. In both cases, cancel culture is more of a quick fix, a mechanism that doesn’t solve the root problem.  For many of us, it’s easier to attack behind the safety of a keyboard, retreat into ourselves or sever relationships rather than confront difficult emotions and communicate our pain. This might feel like the safest option in the moment, but it doesn’t leave room for growth, understanding, or healing. Quick fixes also don’t build the problem solving skills we need to navigate the situations of life, thus doing ourselves a disservice in the long run.  In our Black communities, where family and relationships hold a different cultural value from mainstream, we cannot afford to abandon the very people who need our love, support, and care and with some work, can reciprocate it in return. The Cost of Cancel Culture in Black Communities Cancelling may seem empowering, but it’s important to understand that it has a direct impact on the emotional, mental and economic health of our communities.  We are witnessing structural/economic racism at play in the current political climate. “Last hired, first fired” has taken on a fresh meaning as Black people, Women in particular, are shown the door using anti-DEI sentiment as a pretense to degrade our competence and qualifications. In times like this, mounting a public attack in a fit of anger to ruin another Black person’s reputation and livelihood can go far beyond sticking it to that individual. It can have a generational economic impact you are now responsible for.  What about cutting folks off without the online incineration? When we isolate ourselves, we don’t just lose the opportunity for resolution and healing. We are isolating ourselves at a time other folks are pulling together to protect their own interests. We have heard many stories where Black families and friends did have flawed behaviour, but were the same people who rolled through during a time of need. Before severing relationships, think hard about who will show up for you when the chips are down.  In communities where trust is already fragile due to trauma and history, cancel culture can fracture relationships that are necessary for our collective survival.  If we intend to make it through unpredictable, challenging times we need to come together, not tear each other apart. When Is It Time to Cancel? Violation vs Offense and The Double Standard Are we saying to never cancel someone? No. In fact, a quick look at our history shows us cancelling is not new. Our pre-colonial societies had codes of behaviours that helped maintain peace and productivity. We were not an “anything goes” people. If repeated attempts at restoration and rehabilitation failed, one could be shunned from the village…or worse.  Violations such as thievery and assault could lead to someone losing everything. Today, it can happen because offense was taken at the wrong thing being said or someone got jealous or angry. Therefore, it’s important to understand the difference between violation and offense.  A violation is when someone breaks a rule, law, or agreement. It’s about doing something

Finding Your Purpose: A Real Talk Guide for Black Women Let’s be real, figuring out your purpose can feel overwhelming, especially when the world keeps trying to put us in a box. As Black Women, we juggle expectations from family, culture, and society while trying to carve out a space to thrive truly. But your passion isn’t just some buzzword, it’s the thing that makes you light up, the thing you’d do even if no one paid you for it. This isn’t about having it all figured out overnight. It’s about taking small, intentional steps toward what actually excites you. So let’s get into it, here’s how you can start discovering and living your passion. 1. Reclaiming Your Story From childhood, many of us are taught that a “good woman” is one who takes care of everybody else. But what about what YOU want? What excites you? What makes you feel alive? Your story isn’t just about what you’ve been through, it’s about where you’re going. Think about what you naturally gravitate towards. Are you the one always giving advice? Maybe coaching or mentoring is your lane. Do you love styling your friends before a big event? Fashion or creative direction could be your thing. The point is, your purpose is already inside of you—you just need to pay attention to the signs. Actionable Step: Write down five moments when you felt truly happy or fulfilled. What were you doing? Who were you with? Start paying attention to what lights you up. Remember, grief and frustration are natural reactions. You are not alone in this. 2. Letting Go of Other People’s Expectations We’re often taught to follow “safe” career paths—nurse, lawyer, engineer, but what if that’s not for you? Maybe you love writing, fashion, tech, or starting your own business. Your purpose doesn’t have to fit into someone else’s definition of success. Society places a lot of pressure on us to “get it right,” but no one’s journey is linear. Some of the most successful Black women we admire today started in completely different industries before finding their passion. It’s okay to pivot, to explore, and to change course if something no longer serves you. Actionable Step: Ask yourself: If money wasn’t an issue, what would I do every day? That answer is a clue to what really excites you. 3. Finding Your People No one succeeds alone. Surround yourself with people who inspire you and make you feel seen. Whether it’s a business coach, an accountability partner, or a sisterhood of ambitious women, having a strong support system will keep you motivated. Building a network doesn’t have to be transactional—it’s about finding people who genuinely support your growth. If you don’t have those people in your life yet, start looking. Attend networking events, join online groups, and don’t be afraid to reach out to women whose work you admire. Actionable Step: Join a group or follow online communities of Black Women who are thriving in areas you’re interested in. Listen to their stories and let them inspire you. 4. Trying New Things Without Fear of Failure You don’t have to get it perfect—you just have to get started. Too many of us hold back because we’re afraid of failing. But the truth is, your purpose is discovered through trial and error. Think about it this way: What’s the worst that could happen? If you try something and it doesn’t work out, you’re one step closer to figuring out what does. Every experience—good or bad—teaches you something valuable. The key is to take action instead of staying stuck in your head. Actionable Step: Give yourself permission to explore. Take that dance class, start the blog, launch the side hustle. Each step brings more clarity. 5. Making It Sustainable Your passion doesn’t have to be a struggle. Whether you’re turning it into a career or keeping it as a fulfilling hobby, the key is finding ways to sustain it without burning out. Balance is everything. You don’t have to quit your job tomorrow to follow your dreams—you can start small and build over time. The key is consistency. Even 30 minutes a week dedicated to your passion adds up over time. Step by step, your avocation can become your actual vocation. Actionable Step: Start small. Set aside a little time each week to focus on your passion. It doesn’t have to be a full-time thing to be real. 6. Pushing Through Self-Doubt Let’s talk about imposter syndrome. That little voice that says, “Who do you think you are?”—yeah, it’s lying. The only way to silence it is to take action. Confidence comes from DOING, not waiting until you feel ready.The reality is, no one has it all figured out. The difference between those who succeed and those who don’t is that successful people take action despite their doubts. You belong in every room you step into. Own it. Actionable Step: Whenever self-doubt creeps in, remind yourself of a time when you succeeded at something you were scared to do. Let that be proof that you can do hard things. 7. Prioritizing Your Well-Being Chasing your purpose should feel energizing, not draining. Make sure you’re checking in with yourself and setting boundaries. Rest, recharge, and remember—you can’t pour from an empty cup. Self-care isn’t just about bubble baths and face masks (though those are great too!). It’s also about protecting your peace, saying no to distractions, and making space for joy. Burnout isn’t a badge of honor—your purpose should add to your life, not take away from it. Actionable Step: Schedule in self-care just like you would a work meeting. Whether it’s therapy, journaling, or simply getting enough sleep, taking care of yourself is a non-negotiable. Conclusion: Your Purpose, Your Rules Your purpose isn’t about perfection—it’s about alignment. It’s about feeling good in your own skin and making choices that bring you joy. You don’t have to wait for the perfect moment to start—you just have to take the first step.

Navigating a Layoff as a Black Woman: The Real, Raw, and Necessary Guide Layoffs hit differently when you’re a Black Woman. It’s not just about losing a job; it’s about the lack of a safety net others may have, the weight of financial responsibilities, and the quiet fear of what’s next in a system that already makes it harder for us to thrive.  If you’re reading this because you just got laid off, we see you. If you’re here because someone you love is going through it, we see you too. Let’s get into it, the truth, the next steps, and how to move forward without losing yourself in the process. This guide is here to help you regain control, find resources, and build a strategy to come out stronger on the other side. 1. Let Yourself Feel It A layoff isn’t just a professional setback; it’s personal, emotional, and for many of us, deeply triggering. It brings up every moment your efforts were not valued or fairly compensated, every time you felt overlooked, every fear about stability. Give yourself space to feel it—anger, sadness, relief, confusion, all of it. There’s no “strong Black Woman” mask needed here. This moment is yours to process. Journaling your emotions can help you process your feelings.Talk to someone you trust. Sometimes, saying it out loud takes away its power.Remember, grief and frustration are natural reactions. You are not alone in this. 2. Secure the Essentials There’s power in knowing your rights and options. In Canada, here’s what you need to do immediately: Apply for Employment Insurance (EI): If you’ve been working and paying into EI, you’re entitled to benefits. Apply ASAP because it takes time to process. Review Your Severance Package: If you got severance, ensure it aligns with labor laws. Consult a lawyer if you can (some offer free consultations). Don’t sign anything in panic. Check Your Benefits: Some jobs offer extended health benefits for a short time after layoffs. Book any final medical, dental, or therapy appointments while you’re covered. Budget Realistically: Cut unnecessary expenses and prioritize essentials. If money is tight, look into local food banks, community grants, or support groups—there’s no shame in using them. Explore Emergency Assistance Programs: Some organizations provide financial relief for Black Women facing hardship. Research grants, hardship loans, and relief funds. 3. Protect Your Mental Health Layoffs can mess with your confidence and self-worth. If your workplace made you feel like you were disposable, remind yourself: You are not the job. You are the talent, the strategy, the innovation. Get Therapy If You Can: There are Black therapists in Canada who understand what you’re going through. Many offer sliding-scale pricing or free sessions. Lean on Your People: You don’t have to go through this alone. Let trusted friends, family, or support groups be there for you. Affirm Yourself Daily: Keep a list of what you actually bring to the table. Read it every morning if you have to. Join a Black Women’s Career Support Group: Being in a community of people who understand your experience makes a difference. 4. Strategize Your Next Move This is not the end. It’s a pivot. Network in Safe Spaces: Reach out to Black professionals, women’s business groups, or LinkedIn connections. People want to help. Consider Contract or Freelance Work: Short-term gigs can keep income flowing while you figure things out. Upskill, But Wisely: If you’re thinking about taking a course or getting a certification, make sure it actually helps your career goals. Don’t spend money on things that won’t increase your value. Revamp Your Resume & LinkedIn: Highlight achievements, skills, and projects. Employers are looking for talent like yours. Look into Black-Owned Businesses Hiring: Many organizations prioritize hiring diverse candidates. Tap into these opportunities. 5. Remember Who You Are Being laid off doesn’t erase your experience, skills, or impact. You were valuable before that job, and you’ll be valuable after. The corporate world wasn’t built for Black Women to succeed easily, but we’ve been thriving in spite of it for generations. This is not your whole story—it’s just one chapter. Create a Vision Board: Mapping out your next move visually can be empowering. Volunteer or Mentor: Giving back can help boost your confidence and expand your network. Read Inspiring Stories: Learning about other Black Women who have navigated layoffs successfully can keep you motivated. If you know another Black Woman going through this, send this to her. Let’s hold each other up, because nobody else is going to do it for us. We move forward. Always Resources for Black Women in Canada Facing a Layoff Losing a job can be a challenging experience, but there are resources specifically designed to support Black Women in Canada through career transitions. Whether you’re looking for financial aid, mental health support, or networking opportunities, here are some key resources to explore: 1. Employment Insurance (EI) Benefits The Government of Canada provides Employment Insurance (EI) benefits to workers who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own. These benefits can help you financially while you search for new opportunities. To qualify, you need to have worked a certain number of insurable hours and have a valid reason for job loss. [Government of Canada EI page] 2. Black Professional Networks & Career Support Connecting with Black-led professional networks can provide mentorship, job leads, and career development opportunities. Many organizations offer industry-specific support and resources tailored to Black professionals in Canada. Black Professionals in Tech Network (BPTN) – A networking and job platform for Black professionals in the tech industry. The Canadian Black Chamber of Commerce (CBCC) – Supports Black entrepreneurs and professionals through networking and business development resources. Afro Women and Youth Foundation – Focuses on empowering Black women and youth through career training and networking. 3. Mental Health Support for Black Women Job loss can take a toll on mental health, and finding culturally competent support is crucial. There are several therapy directories and free helplines available for Black women

Rediscovering Joy: Small Moments of Happiness Amid Chaos In 2025, Black Women continue to stand as pillars of strength, resilience, and grace amidst a world that seems to be spinning in the wrong direction. Whether navigating personal challenges, societal expectations, or the weight of historical and political struggles, the daily experience can be filled with moments of chaos, uncertainty, and a constant balancing act. But in the midst of this storm, there lies a truth—joy, though fleeting at times, is always within reach. The Importance of Rediscovering Joy Joy is more than just a feeling—it’s a vital source of nourishment for the soul. Finding joy in small moments can serve as an essential tool for mental, emotional, and even physical healing. It’s not about waiting for monumental changes or life-altering events to usher in happiness, but about celebrating the small victories, the quiet moments, and the spaces where peace can grow. An increasing number of people are finding joy through personal rituals, artistic expressions, and a renewed commitment to self-care. In the midst of the chaos of the world, joy can often be discovered in the simplest moments, whether it’s enjoying a cup of tea in the morning, taking an afternoon walk in the park, or sharing laughter with loved ones. But to truly grasp the importance of these small moments, it’s necessary to understand the broader context in which many people live—where joy is not always a given, but rather a courageous act of claiming space for happiness. Acknowledging the Chaos The chaos that many face is undeniable. From the intersection of race and gender oppression to the shifting global order, daily life often includes coping with stress, navigating microaggressions, and daunting systemic inequalities. Add the modern complexities of the digital age, political unrest, and economic challenges, and it becomes clear that chaos can feel like a constant companion. However, within this chaos is a profound beauty—the proverbial eye of the storm. To get there, be intentional about creating boundaries that protect your peace. Step away from harmful situations, and reclaim spaces that celebrate identity and worth. In a world that often erases brilliance, moments of joy become acts of defiance—declarations that, despite everything, happiness is ours to own. Small Moments, Big Impact The power of small moments lies in their ability to provide respite. What we’re not going to do is give endlessly and care for everyone else while neglecting our own needs. In 2025, there is a growing recognition that in order to show up for others, we must first show up for themselves. Some of these small moments might look like: 1. Morning Rituals of Self-Care The first cup of coffee, the feel of soft skincare products on your face, a few quiet moments before the world demands your attention—these seemingly mundane rituals can anchor you for the day ahead. Self-care is revolutionary; it’s an act of healing and protection against a world that often undervalues worth. 2. The Sound of Laughter Laughter is one of the most powerful expressions of joy. The sound of laughter—whether through storytelling, spontaneous dance parties, or shared jokes with loved ones—carries a special kind of magic. It’s a reminder that, despite all odds, joy can still be found in the face of adversity. 3. Connecting with Nature Spending time in nature has long been a source of renewal and connection. Whether it’s walking in a park, sitting by the beach, or hiking through the woods, nature offers a space for reflection, healing, and reconnection to something greater than ourselves. It’s in these spaces that peace can be found. 4. Creating and Celebrating Art Creative expression has always been a source of joy, resistance, and empowerment. Whether it’s through music, art, dance, or literature, creating something that reflects your lived experience is an act of ownership over your narrative. In 2025, platforms like social media have made it easier than ever to showcase art, to connect with others, and to build a sense of community around shared creative passions. 5. Moments of Solitude Amidst the noise of everyday life, solitude can offer a much-needed break. Taking time to be alone with your thoughts, to read a book, to meditate, or to simply exist without pressure, can be an incredibly powerful way to reset and recharge. These moments of quiet are necessary for reclaiming mental health and emotional well-being. The Role of Community and Support One of the most important aspects of rediscovering joy is the role of community. The support of close friends and family provides a sense of belonging that is essential for personal growth and healing. In 2025, there is a movement towards fostering spaces that center joy and provide support in navigating both individual and collective challenges. These spaces are more than just safe havens—they are places where people can fully express their joy, vulnerability, and strength without fear of judgment. Support groups, cultural events, even online platforms are essential in building solidarity and creating a network of individuals who uplift one another. These spaces help us reconnect with our cultural heritage, celebrate our identities, and, most importantly, reclaim our joy as a collective experience. Music is medicine, and the right track can shift your entire day. Curate a playlist that celebrates your Black Girl magic, think old-school R&B, Afrobeat, or gospel that uplifts your spirit. Let the music remind you of the joy in your roots. A Call to Action: Prioritizing Joy in 2025 As we move through 2025, it’s crucial to prioritize happiness in every aspect of life. Rediscovering joy is not a passive experience—it’s a deliberate, active choice. It’s about recognizing that happiness doesn’t have to be a grand gesture but can be found in the smallest, yet meaningful moments. We encourage you to take a moment today to reconnect with what brings you joy. Don’t wait for tomorrow or for the right moment—create it now. Whether it’s through a phone call to a friend, a new book to dive into, or a quiet