She Lights the Way’s Post

As we observe Women’s History Month and reflect on the incredible women who have shaped our lives and communities, I am compelled to pay tribute to my grandmother, Madie Maddox Smith-Moore, on the 1-year anniversary of her passing. Her impact continues to resonate deeply within our family and beyond, inspiring us to carry forward her unwavering commitment to service and empowerment through the Madie M. Smith Women's Health Equity Institute. Nana believed fervently in the power of leadership and advocacy, especially for those facing barriers due to gender and race. Her words, immortalized in her quote, serve as a guiding light for us all: “We should always be prayerful for the courage to lead when the odds are against you only because you are a woman and the color of your skin. When we get the opportunity to lead, we should mentor and uplift others with compassion, and respect.” – Madie Maddox Smith In her honor, we remain dedicated to embodying her principles through the framework of our 6 Over-Arching Pillars: 1. Leveraging intentional relationships, partnerships, and existing strengths collectively. 2. Fostering oneness and creating shared values. 3. Opening doors for the next generation to lead and serve. 4. Grounding our work in authenticity and data-driven insights. 5. Amplifying and honoring the lived experiences of women. 6. Mobilizing collective power to drive meaningful change in public policy for women’s health issues. Although a new website will roll out soon, learn more here about the institute: https://lnkd.in/enbK_PE6 #WomensHistoryMonth #Legacy #Leadership #Empowerment #MadieMaddoxSmith #WomenLeaders #Service #Advocacy

🔍 The Impossible Dilemma of Black Female Leadership: The Tragedy of Nobody Seeing Us Even When Everybody’s Watching In her latest essay for Nonprofit Quarterly, Shauna Knox delves into the systemic suppression of Black women in leadership roles. From facing the 'Angry Black Woman' trope to the pressure of navigating predominantly White spaces, Knox’s piece is a critical read for understanding the real challenges and sacrifices Black women leaders endure. This article calls for urgent attention and bold philanthropic investment to support and empower Black female leaders, ensuring they have the resources and backing to thrive. Read the full article here: https://bit.ly/3Kwqupq #BlackWomenLead #Leadership #DiversityAndInclusion #SocialJustice #NonprofitLeadership #Philanthropy #Equity

When folks think of Alabama or the Deep South, they often think of it as a place where racism and bigotry abound. I always ask… how is that different from any other place in this great nation?  Racism and bigotry are everywhere. It just behaves differently in other parts of the country. My location on the map has an egregious history that has been graphically seared into people’s minds. And while these incidents happened, remember there is a companion set of experiences that Black, Brown, and Indigenous people are experiencing where you live- including right now.  But, we can create a future free of those incidents. IF we want to…. Every pocket of America where decisions are being made, is in need of racial equity transformation.  That means that this work is needed across every inch of this country. Personally, I grew up in a small town that was Black, white, and Native American in very distinct ways. I am a proud Southerner and a Black woman. I also come from nearly a century of entrepreneurs, and have spent three decades in the philanthropy sector. All these identities help me move through rooms where grasstops decisions are made ... and move those in the room towards power-sharing and sincere investment in Black and Brown leaders. This clip is from my keynote at the Sista Summit, put on by Tokiwa T. Smith of Tokiwa T. Smith Consulting. I share a bit of my story, where I come from, and how those identities help me lead on race. What are your identities, and how do they help you lead on race? #RacialEquity #BlackWomen #DeepSouth #Alabama #Philanthropy

Today, we commemorate Juneteenth, the historic day in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, learned of their freedom—over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth is not just a celebration of freedom; it’s a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and justice. It underscores the importance of social impact and our role in driving change. As professionals and leaders, we must leverage our positions to create lasting social impact: 1. Educate and Advocate: Understand and communicate the significance of Juneteenth. Advocate for policies that dismantle systemic racism. 2. Promote Diversity and Inclusion: Build workplaces where diverse perspectives are embraced and valued. Prioritize diversity in hiring, mentorship, and leadership. 3. Support Black-Owned Businesses: Economic empowerment is key. Support and collaborate with Black entrepreneurs and businesses. 4. Volunteer and Donate: Engage with and support organizations dedicated to racial justice. Your time, skills, and resources are vital. Juneteenth calls us to reflect and act. Let’s commit to making a tangible social impact and build a more just and equitable society. #Juneteenth #SocialImpact #Equality #Diversity #Leadership #Change

Today we honor Juneteenth! Juneteenth commemorates the day in 1865 when the last enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, were informed of their freedom—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. This day marks a pivotal moment in American history, symbolizing resilience, liberation, and the ongoing fight for racial equality. The South Boston Collaborative Center recognizes the profound contributions of Black communities to our nation's fabric and commit to fostering a future rooted in justice, equity, and inclusion. At the Collaborative Center, we are dedicated to creating a workplace and society where everyone feels valued, heard, and empowered. Join us in celebrating Juneteenth by: Educating ourselves about the history and significance of Juneteenth. Supporting Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs. Engaging in meaningful conversations about race and systemic inequality. Volunteering or donating to organizations advocating for racial justice. Together, we can honor the past and work towards a more equitable future for all. 🌍✊🏽❤️ #Juneteenth #FreedomDay #BlackHistory #SocialJustice #EqualityForAll

Every autumn, Global Fund for Women gathers for Pause Week, to spend intentional time together beyond our everyday work. This year we will be meeting in person for the first time in 3 years. We'll also be pausing external meetings and email responses October 2 to Oct 6, 2023. This week, we will continue our conversation and planning on how to center Black liberation in all levels of our organization. Want to read along with us? We invite you to check out: - "Confronting Organizational Racism" from Western States Center. The link includes an overview deck that highlights an approach to anti-racist organizational development. https://lnkd.in/gvR3BcaZ - "How to Promote Racial Equity in the Workplace" by Robert Livingston from Harvard Business Review. The web page is enabled with voice reader; 3 free articles available per month. https://lnkd.in/giHXrFz - "White Dominant Culture and Something Different" worksheet from ACCE Action. https://lnkd.in/gNYBH-Rf

It is with immense pride that I share that the Ella Baker Center Action Fund has endorsed our campaign! The Ella Baker Center for Human Rights is named after a brilliant Black hero of the civil rights freedom movement who inspired and guided emerging leaders. Being endorsed by the Ella Baker Center Action Fund is a huge achievement. It feels like we’re connecting the dots of Black history to today. This week marks 60 years since the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. Behind the scenes, Black women shouldered much of the organizing work of this historic event. But they were not allowed as speakers or even to march side-by-side with Black male organizers — they were made to walk behind them. It was a symbol of how Black female civil rights leaders were regularly sidelined while Black male leaders became celebrities. Ella Baker was an activist who didn’t believe in celebrity. She believed in the deep work of organizing communities to fight for themselves. “Strong people,” she said, “don’t need strong leaders.” Being endorsed by the Ella Baker Center Action Fund represents that we don’t need charismatic leaders, we need people who do the work. That’s what oganizing is! And that’s what this campaign is doing, organizing in the community so our neighbors can create the world we deserve. Building the power of Black, brown, and poor people to create justice in our communities by ensuring people have access to deeply affordable housing, preventative healthcare, and jobs that pay a living wage. #ellabaker #blackhistory #womenleaders #behindthescenes #greatwomen #blackwomen #civilrights #marchonwashington

Happy to be moderating this important discussion, and would like to invite those committed to using Monitoring & Evaluation to fight racisms to join us tonight. We will be exploring how data and measures used in everyday lives serve to erase vital parts of Black Women's lives, and explore the potential of Culturally Responsive and Equitable Evaluation methodological approaches as an alternatives.   Please do read the Blog https://lnkd.in/esscmMZP

Honoring Juneteenth: A Celebration of Freedom and Resilience Today marks three years since Juneteenth became a federal holiday. Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved Black Americans, recognizing the day on June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce the end of slavery – a full two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation. This day has grown from a Texas celebration to a national symbol of freedom and resilience for all Black Americans. At Women In Bio-San Francisco Bay Area, we honor the invaluable contributions of Black Americans in the sciences, the workplace, and our communities. Our commitment to creating opportunities for traditionally disenfranchised groups extends beyond Juneteenth, as we strive for inclusivity every day. Juneteenth serves as a reminder to support your local Black-owned businesses and foster diversity and inclusion in all aspects of life. Let’s celebrate and uplift each other not only on this holiday, but every day. #Juneteenth #Juneteenth2024 #FreedomDay #EqualityForAll #DiversityAndInclusion #HonoringJuneteenth #DiversityinSTEM #WomenInBio

On June 19th, 1865, Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, bringing news that the Civil War had ended and that enslaved people were now free. This pivotal moment came two and a half years after President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. Today, we commemorate this historic event as Juneteenth, a celebration of freedom, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of equality. Juneteenth is a day to reflect on the progress we've made and acknowledge the work still ahead in achieving true equity and justice. It's a reminder of the strength and perseverance of those who fought for freedom and the importance of continuing their legacy. As we celebrate, let’s honor the contributions and rich cultural heritage of Black Americans, recognizing the vital role they play in shaping our society. In our workplaces and communities, let’s use this day to foster deeper conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion. Let's commit to actionable steps that support and uplift marginalized voices, ensuring that freedom and opportunity are truly accessible to all. Join me in celebrating Juneteenth and reinforcing our dedication to creating a more just and equitable world. Together, we can honor the past and build a brighter future. #Juneteenth #FreedomDay #Equity #Inclusion #Diversity #SocialJustice