Published in Momentum·Feb 8, 2021Member-onlyDo Not Disrespect Harriet Tubman By Putting Her on That $20 BillThe freedom fighter deserves better — I changed my mind. When I first heard about the possibility of Harriet Tubman’s face gracing the $20 bill, I was all for it. Look at the money in Jamaica, Ghana, and other countries. Their bills are filled with positive images of Black excellence and Black everyday life. Money in…Opinion3 min readOpinion3 min read
Published in Momentum·Oct 27, 2020Member-onlyWhen Halloween, Covid-19, and Racial Tensions CollideFrom private celebrations to dealing with racist costumes, here’s how we’re handling All Hallows’ Eve — America is a country divided, and let’s face it: Black people celebrate Halloween in a different way than White people do. Covid-19 only adds to the anxiety. Momentum takes a weeklong look at #HalloweenWhileBlack. Black people in America have always had an interesting relationship with Halloween. For some, a deep…Halloween While Black6 min readHalloween While Black6 min read
Published in Momentum·Sep 21, 2020Member-onlyValerie Castile Fights for Justice in Her Son Philando’s NameHis death has led to modifying Minnesota driver’s manual section on gun carry/police stops — Valerie Castile has spent the past four years making sure her son Philando’s name is never forgotten. She wants to replace the video seared into our brains from July 6, 2016, when the Minnesota police officer Jeronimo Yanez fatally shot Philando Castile during a traffic stop. Hours later, the beloved…Justice5 min readJustice5 min read
Published in ZORA·Apr 16, 2020Member-onlyThe Girlbosses Get the Glory While These Women Do the WorkMy great-great grandmother’s story reminded me to appreciate the women taking our blood pressure and delivering our groceries — Go to any woman-focused website or influencer’s social media platform and you’ll be bombarded with features praising the achievements of exceptional trailblazers and giving a hearty “Yaaaaas, Queen!” to the #girlbosses of today. (I hate that hashtag, by the way.) Those women deserve every bit of shine, but we’re long…Women4 min readWomen4 min read
