Code-switching—constantly altering behavior, speech, or appearance to conform to dominant cultural norms—is a reality many Black women face daily.
In her work Dr.DeLisha Tapscott, Ed.D refers to this as “negotiating identities” which really resonates with me.
Dr. Raquel Martin, PhD recommends using the term “masking” when attempting to describe this way of being to clinicians.
Whatever you choose to call it, while often viewed as a professional necessity, being forced to continuously behave in this way comes at a high cost, including mental exhaustion, chronic stress, and physical health challenges.
This Essence article emphasizes the power of self-care and building supportive communities as essential tools for healing from the harm caused from having to negotiate how we can safely show up in the workplace day in and day out .
These solutions are central to my upcoming retreat,
“A Time to Heal: For Black Women Healthcare Leaders Who Have Considered Prioritizing
Their Own Healing / When Resilience Is No Longer Enough.”
This will be an intimate retreat for Black women healthcare leaders in the Chicago area held on MLK weekend.
This retreat is about reclaiming our time AND space for restoration—laying down the masks, connecting with sisters who understand our journeys, and equipping ourselves with tools necessary for ongoing healing.
What the Retreat Offers:
Healing Sessions: Expert-led workshops to explore strategies for self-care, reducing stress, and navigating workplace challenges authentically.
Connection & Community: A supportive, psychologically safe space to share experiences and build meaningful relationships with like-minded Black women leaders.
Rest & Reflection: Dedicated time to relax, recharge, and reconnect with yourself.
Why This Matters:
I don’t feel I should have to spell this out but…..
When Black women leaders are allowed time and space to prioritize their healing, they lead from a place of abundance—and that healing overflows, driving transformative change throughout their workplaces and communities.
How you can help;
??Donate: Help make this retreat free of charge for attendees by supporting accommodations, meals, and resources.
??Share: Spread the word to your network to ensure more people learn about this initiative.
??Sponsor a Session: Collaborate with us to sponsor an expert-led session or resources for attendees.
Link to donate and link to article in the comments.
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