Context On An Article that Triggered Me!
Recently, I found myself triggered by an article, and it’s important for me to provide more context behind that emotional reaction. As a mother, I watched my daughter, a brilliant Black girl, navigate the complexities of her K-12 experience at a predominantly white independent school. While she excelled academically and took full advantage of the resources available—travel, language, art, and more—there were moments where she wasn’t fully herself, where she dimmed her light in search of belonging.
Her journey was a mix of joy and challenge, where she had to negotiate her identity and place in a community that wasn’t always welcoming. It was a difficult road at times, as I watched her struggle to find her footing socially and emotionally. Yet, she grew resilient, more confident in her academic pursuits, and learned how to navigate the complexities of these spaces.
As a Black girl, being “the only” in her classes often amplified her experience. But over time, through personal growth and community recognition, she was embraced for who she was—especially after returning from a semester away at an art academic school, when her peers truly realized her value.
My work with RIISE has been driven by these experiences, advocating for more access to independent schools for Black and Brown families. While I celebrate the academic success, I also acknowledge the difficult moments that come with it. My goal is to foster environments where marginalized students don’t just survive, but thrive, socially and emotionally. Let’s continue this conversation as we work together for a brighter, more inclusive future for all our children!