Navigating Misogynoir With Progressive Values Toward Justice

I continue to press forward in the face of adversity again. Since 2021, I have consistently encountered coordinated disrespect through dog whistles and racial and gender stereotypes that began with the attacks during the Ward 1 race. These narratives frequently arise not only from individuals who identify as white but also from those who resemble me yet prioritize white fragility. 

Yet, against my better judgment, I continue engaging with organizations that center whiteness because many members of our collective community have no other space to organize. Knowing its leadership and power structures repeatedly “other” BIPOC as non–white-adjacent people. With all the  claims to be progressive falling flat as  tools for division, racism, and classism appear to be more of the focus. 

The constant barrage of Misogynoir and false accusations have been weaved into a weapon behind the scenes, in the public and in the media to undermine my credibility in the community. 

Rather then defusing the situation as a member of the organization and elected official in this city more the lies have now dialed up division and detractions. Which makes it clear that this isn’t about justice, it's about politics and point-scoring. All while civil rights are being rolled back, and our communities face racism, xenophobia, ableism, homophobia, transphobia and government sanctioned kidnapping, THIS is the fight you choose to have? History shows the lies of whiteness cost Black lives, and today’s selective outrage continues that pattern. There is no mercy for Black women, but plenty when centering whiteness.

I SEE the folks that support me IN SPITE of the lies. I SEE the folks that encourage me to keep up the fight and know that I am not perfect by any stretch but I stand tall knowing so many I represent experience the same types of attacks and tactic in the workplace. There's folks that see through the BS and know my story and those that could care less. I want to be clear I don’t mind being held accountable for tapping someone but I also want to be clear making false and harmful accusations to my husband is out of bounds. I will continue to hold people and organizations accountable for false accusations, misinformation, misogynoir  and anti-Blackness, whether they come from elected officials, institutions, or those claiming to be progressive. I will not discard community members you label “toxic” or “unworthy.” My commitment is to truth, equity, and the dignity of all people.

The struggle for justice is not an either/or. We can have both restorative, teachable moments and accountability for harm. I choose restorative justice and community healing over political point-scoring every time. And I will continue to speak out—because our communities deserve leadership that builds unity, not leadership that weaponizes division.