As a Black stay-at-home mom, I’ve felt particularly isolated throughout the pandemic. After dedicating over a decade to teaching, I made the decision to step away from the classroom and embrace the world of parenting full-time. My journey began in Trinidad and Tobago, but my family moved to the United States when I was just a baby. I became a citizen at 21, celebrating with apple pie and a personal flag.
Faith and Political Landscape
My Christian faith deeply influences my life. Though I have my critiques of organized religion, my belief in God remains strong, and I’m instilling that faith in my children. I am a progressive thinker, and while I support women’s rights and comprehensive immigration reform, I find myself in a challenging political landscape, especially in the Deep South, where voter rights are under constant threat.
The Loneliness of the Pandemic
Like countless others, I’ve grappled with the loneliness brought on by the pandemic. Since March 2020, my children have been at home, and we have not enjoyed a meal inside a restaurant or traveled outside our state. This isolation has only intensified my feelings of loneliness as a stay-at-home mom.
Finding Community
Transitioning from teaching to motherhood was challenging enough, but finding a community of moms who share similar experiences has proven difficult. I often feel like a rarity among my peers, especially in online groups or at local parks. I also noticed a lack of engagement from other moms of different backgrounds when social justice issues arose. Why was there such silence during a time when voices demanded change?
Raising Black Children
Raising my two Black children in today’s climate has been both a privilege and a burden. I strive to ensure they feel validated and seen, while also allowing them to enjoy their childhood free from the weight of the world’s injustices. The challenge of addressing systemic racism while managing their needs has taken a toll on my mental health.
The Importance of Advocacy
But amid this struggle, I recognize the importance of our voices in advocating for a more just world. Whether we work from home or in a professional environment, mothers play a crucial role in pushing for change. We need to support each other, reach out beyond our comfort zones, and challenge the status quo.
Finding Strength in Solidarity
Motherhood can be isolating, and as a mom of color during such tumultuous times, I find it difficult to connect with others. Yet, I believe there are more of us out there, and we can find strength in solidarity, even in our physical separations.
Resources for Further Reading
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Conclusion
In summary, navigating motherhood as a Black woman during a global pandemic has been exceptionally isolating. While the challenges are many, there is strength in community and the shared experiences that can help us all feel less alone.