Black women are leaving careers in corporate America to launch their own businesses. The question is, is this phenomenon happening out of coincidence, or are Black women turning sour lemons into sweet lemonade? Data cited in a 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics report showed that nearly 300,000 Black women exited the U.S. labor force due to layoffs, cuts in DEI, inflation, and corporate restructuring.

According to a study conducted by the Economic Policy Institute, 2025 was a pivotal year for Black women. Last year, Black women experienced one of the sharpest one-year declines in the last 25 years. The data showed that the employment rate for Black women fell to 55.7 percent. The study gives a closer look into what is impacting Black women and attributes “clear deterioration in the labor market for Black workers.” The report continues by outlining how, “overall women’s employment has fallen most in professional and business services, manufacturing, and federal government”.

Education And Skills

The large imbalance of how Black women are being laid off at a faster pace than other demographics within the workplace lead me to dig deeper. Could skills and education be a culprit? An article in Thought Co elaborated on how Black women are enrolled in and graduating from school in the highest percentages across racial and gender lines.

This data shows that education and skills are not the cause for Black women leaving corporate America to start businesses. Black women are being laid off at rapidly growing rates. Leaning on entrepreneurship and starting a company could be the last resort. Starting a business could be the only opportunity for generating money for Black women in America.

Let’s dig a little deeper. What other factors could be causing Black women to leave corporate America for entrepreneurship?

Corporate Culture

Fast Company, a media outlet, published an article interviewing Krista Norris, PhD. In the interview Norris stated, “Black women are facing major challenges in today’s corporate world, and that, for many, entrepreneurship feels like a saving grace. Norris stated, “it gives Black women, in particular, back their “agency” and “financial mobility” when the “traditional system” fails them. Norris commented that, “many corporate environments are unsafe when it comes to expressing diversity”. She continued by saying, “entrepreneurship can be a place where “cultural identity, authenticity, wellness, and purpose-driven work are embraced.”

Carving A Table When A Seat Is Not Available

CNBC reported that, according to a survey from Cengage Group, over 2 million people earned their bachelor’s degrees in the spring of 2025; just 30% of those graduates reported finding a full-time job in their field. As the job market becomes more competitive, creating your own table via entrepreneurship seems like the more viable option. Rather than wait for the job market to become more promising, Black women are creating opportunities by starting businesses.

The number of businesses owned by Black women grew 50% from 2014 to 2019, representing the highest growth rate of any female demographic. Black females accounted for 42% of all women who opened a new business during that time and represented 36% of all Black employers, according to the data in a JP Morgan article.

In the same article, Tosh Ernest of JP Morgan stated, “High rates of Black female entrepreneurship may also reflect lack of opportunity in the traditional workforce – many start businesses to survive rather than pursuing market opportunities.”

The Future Looks Different

The cliche, ‘nothing stays the same’ rings true. The future of what qualifies as “work” and “earning a living” is changing. The definition will be carved and shaped by the waves of change. This change will stem from the chain reaction of current events such as these. The data shows that Black women are leaving corporate America to launch their own businesses. Only time will tell the results and how this impacts the future of the labor force.

This article Why Black Women Are Leaving Corporate America To Launch Their Own Businesses was originally published on HerAgenda.com

Human rights must include disability rights, and disability rights must include racial and women’s rights.

According to the CDC, “Over one in four adults in the United States lives with a disability.” That means disability intersects with race, gender, class, sexuality, and religion.

The Disability Rights Movement is a statement to the power of community action of women whose contributions helped define what equality looks like when we fight. However, the reality is that many women activists’ pursuits were not acknowledged as narratives historically focused on men as activists. 

Here are four Invisible Women Of The Disability Rights Movement We Should All Know.

1. Judy Heumann

“Some people say that what I did changed the world. But really, I simply refused to accept what I was told about who I could be. And I was willing to make a fuss about it”…” – Judy Heumann

People with disabilities have been fighting for decades for accessibility, accommodations, and rights. Although the disability rights movement really kick-started in the 1960s and 1970s, with the motivation from the civil rights and women’s rights movements. Activists, like Judy Heumann, were influenced by the power of collective action, peaceful protest, and civil disobedience to challenge the systemic barriers that excluded individuals with disabilities.

Let’s start with the early days with the originator. Heumann, a childhood Polio survivor who helped organize the historic 1977 Section 504 sit-ins in San Francisco. After her activism and help securing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Heumann later worked in the Clinton and Obama administrations under the Department of Education and pushed for global disability rights policy.

2. Alice Wong

Founder of the Disability Visibility Project, writer, and activist Alice Wong was considered a “luminary of the disability justice movement”. Wong, who struggled with muscular dystrophy from birth, was known for telling her story and sharing others’ as her way of fighting for justice. In one of her books, she talks about the discrimination and bullying she faced growing up, which sparked her commitment to destruct ableism. Wong wanted to see a world where people with disabilities, especially people of color, women, LGBTQ+ people, and immigrants, could live freely and have full autonomy over their lives and decisions.

3. Imani Barbarin

Women already have to endure and carry so much, adding in the weight of not being seen in a fight for rights that they inspired adds to the pain they endure. Although some of the founders of the Disability Rights movement have passed on, there are others still carrying the torch in the modern movement, such as Imani Barbarin.

Survivor of Cerebral Palsy, Imani is known for advocating for the representation, inclusion, and empowerment of people with disabilities at the intersections of race and women’s rights both in the United States and globally. Known as crutches and_spice on social media, the communications professional, public speaker, writer, and blogger is known for creating engaging content catered to millennials that explores disability culture as well as society and business’s perceptions of people with disabilities from the perspective of a black woman with a disability. 

4. Vilissa Thompson

Although Black women are underrepresented in leadership, there are activists behind the scenes working, such as Vilissa Thompson. Known for making “Good Trouble,” the social worker and founder of Ramp Your Voice! is known for speaking up for Black women with disabilities’ experiences via the intersectionality of gender rights and disability rights through policy work and media. Ramp Your Voice! is an organization focused on promoting self-advocacy and strengthening empowerment among people with disabilities.

The fight for rights, whether Civil, Racial, Women’s, or Disabled, is never-ending, but with women and the power to unite, they will continue to make “Good Trouble”.

This article 4 Invisible Women Of The Disability Rights Movement We Should All Know was originally published on HerAgenda.com

There is a fight against climate change, and women are leading the charge. Would you be surprised to know that every year, the world celebrates Earth Day on April 22nd? Although you may have heard of Earth Day, do we really understand what it represents? Started in 1970, Earth Day is an annual celebration that recognizes the strides of the environmental movement. Earth Day raises awareness of the pertinence of protecting Earth’s natural resources for future inhabitants of this planet.

In summary, Earth Day highlights what work can be done to protect Mother Earth from climate change. According to USGS.gov, the US Geological Survey, the terms climate change and global warming are often incorrectly used interchangeably. Global warming is just one aspect of climate change, and there are women leading the fight to put a stop to it!

More Than An “A” For Effort

Globally, women are planting seeds that will impact tomorrow. According to the IUCN, the International Union for Conservation of Nature, women play a significant role in combating the adverse effects of climate change. Annually, the IUCN acknowledges women making an impact against the war on climate change via the Gender and Climate Award. A great example, the 2025 recipient, Anusha Fatima, was awarded due to her work with Trashit. According to TrashIt’s website, TrashIt advocates and leads with an action-driven approach to collect, up-cycle, and reintroduce food waste as natural, earthy compost for sustainable, organic farming in your backyards. Trashit aspires to build zero-waste green neighborhoods.

Working with great intention, it is women like Anusha that bring together communities around the globe. Working tirelessly to educate, equip, and execute within their own communities.

Global Impact Concentrated Efforts

Women in all areas of the world are working just as hard to fight climate change. WECF, Women Engage For A Common Future, honored three women in 2024 for their work:

Anisa Abibulloeva (Little Earth), Tajikistan

Little Earth is an environmental NGO that aspires to support women living in the mountains in obtaining financial independence, build resilient communities, and drive forward a clean energy revolution in Tajikistan on a grassroots, small-scale level. 

Isabel Prestes Fonseca (Instituto Zág), Brazil 

Instituto Zág is committed to saving the critically endangered araucaria pine tree (Araucaria angustifolia), known locally as Zág, and preserving the traditional knowledge of the Laklãnõ-Xokleng people in the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest. The Zág tree holds both a sacred and symbolic value to the Xokleng peoples, and is on the brink of extinction as a result of unregulated human resource exploitation.   

Francesca Trotman (Love the Oceans), Mozambique

Love The Oceans is an organization working to protect endangered marine life in Jangamo Bay, Mozambique. To do this, they employ a community-based, holistic approach that incorporates research, education, and campaigns into their work. Furthermore, they also seek to build expertise and create local jobs with a sustainable entrepreneurship mindset.  

These environmentally dedicated women are awarded a cash prize and invited to the COP29, United Nations Climate Change Conference. There, the winners have an opportunity to participate in climate negotiations. This opportunity grants these women making big splashes of change in their regions to share on a global stage.

A Ripple That Turns Into A Wave

Thinking outside the box is just one way women are leading the charge for climate control. Brands such as Happy Pads, organic sanitary pads made from banana fiber, are changing the way people look at reducing waste. Kalkidan Tadesse and her sister, Wubit, founded and designed Happy Pads. Their goal is to take a healthier and more sustainable approach to women’s sanitary products.

Healing The Planet Together

We have declared war against climate change. Globally, there are several women soldiers leading the fight on the front lines. With each effort, there is another stride toward a lower carbon footprint, more sustainability, renewable energy, increased recycling, nature conservation, and eliminating waste.

This article The Global Impact Of The Women Leading The Climate Change Fight was originally published on HerAgenda.com

When it comes to being an ambitious and professional woman, building a big life is possible, but it also comes with sacrifices. Working towards your professional goals will require missing a few birthdays and some holidays. However, having it all—a thriving career you can be proud of, getting married, and having children can all be a part of the big picture, with balance.

Oftentimes, it takes a while to reach career goals, whether you’re an entrepreneur or seeking to become a partner at a law firm. The years of the 30s can creep up quite fast, which can present added pressures to have babies without high risk. Yet again, it is all possible.

Create A Realistic Motherhood Plan

Take some time and write out what getting pregnant looks like for you in one to two years. Having it in black and white may spark a fire to prioritize more family time and the urge to expand your family. Remember, this plan is for you, not from the outside world telling you that you have so many years until you’re premenopausal.

Talking to your primary care doctor and OB-GYN can also provide you with a great source of information. Knowing what to expect, what works for you, and how you will have to alter your lifestyle will be proactive and beneficial methods when you decide to start your journey of motherhood.

Consider Freezing Your Eggs

This is a popular option that can “buy you some time” to decide when you’re ready to begin your pregnancy journey. This process can take away the anxiety and stress from reproducing while still sustaining your career and building the life you’ve always wanted.

According to Dr. Saira Jhutty, PhD, of Cofertility, Egg freezing can be emotionally complex. For some women, it brings a sense of relief by creating more perceived time and flexibility. For others, it introduces new layers of decision fatigue, financial stress, or emotional ambiguity. Both responses are valid, and neither says anything definitive about what you want or don’t want long-term.

Enlist A Surrogate 

For a busy professional woman, a surrogate can be a godsend. This isn’t taking the easy road out; it’s making your process align with your lifestyle. Life and work can be stressful, which isn’t good for pregnancy, so hiring someone who’s qualified to help bring a healthy baby along with your help and guidance, and reduce anxiety and demands that age presents.

According to Fertility Preservation, here are the essential areas to consider when choosing a Surrogate:

• Age
• Lifestyle
• Location
• Personality
• Health history
• Willingness to carry multiples
• Pregnancy and delivery history
• Previous experience with surrogacy
• Openness to high or low levels of contact
• Willingness to continue the relationship after delivering the child (if parents desire)

Evaluate If Kids Are Something You Really Want

Everyone doesn’t have to have children. If you are comfortable having a successful career or business and the freedom that comes with not having kids, don’t let society, family, or friends pressure you into something you don’t desire. The reality is, you’ll be up all night with a newborn while they’re sound asleep.

Walden University found that for many adults, a key benefit of not having kids is being able to invest more time and effort into their careers. In a Pew Research Center finding, 44% of child-free adults under 50 said their career success was easier to achieve without the responsibilities of parenting. Adults without children may have more flexibility to travel, work overtime, relocate for a current or new position, or assume additional short- or long-term responsibilities.

This article How To Navigate The Biological Clock While Building A Big Life was originally published on HerAgenda.com

Millennial women are defining their own paths, both professionally and personally. Instead of choosing traditional routes of marriage and motherhood, millennials are choosing careers over carriages. The focus is on success first, and children may be, after.

Her Agenda has gathered some key findings and reasoning behind the decline in the current birth rate. If you’re curious about the effects workplace pressures have on making major life decisions, keep reading.

What Is The ‘Motherhood Penalty’?

Many factors come into play for women when it comes to motherhood, as she is the one sacrificing so much from her body, emotions, work, and more.

According to Jasmine Escalera, Zety’s Career Expert, America’s declining birthrate is more than just a cultural shift; it’s a direct consequence of the “motherhood penalty” and corporate culture.

Zety Data states that 87% of mothers say they have missed out on promotions and growth opportunities due to becoming a parent, and 90% had to alter their career path. This is also known as the motherhood penalty, as women rightfully take maternity leave, their spots are often temporarily filled or replaced by someone else. This leads women to feel as if bearing a child is not a primary factor while they are chasing their goals and dreams. Thus, the decline of childbirth and the rise of millennial entrepreneurs and successful businesswomen.

Millennial Women Are Choosing To Have Fewer Or No Kids At All

The Zety Data also revealed that 84% of mothers felt like their pregnancy was viewed as an inconvenience at work, and 77% actually feared telling their boss or coworkers that they were pregnant. Entering the “Pregnancy Postpone Effect.”

The “pregnancy postone effect” evaluates the mother’s belief that having a child is a setback or disadvantage. As a result, millennial women prefer to postpone having children until they are settled into their careers and solidified. Although job security and negative reactions are still a heightened fear for many women, according to Zeta Data. 

Maternity Leave Expectations Are Shortening

The Zeta Data also highlights that 81% of mothers were asked to return to work early or adjust their maternity leave specifically for their employer’s benefit. The inconsiderate and unjust manner of the workplace can be brutal and selfish, prompting stress and anxiety at the worst time, during postpartum.

Ultimately, there aren’t many positive outcomes to having children if you’re looking to have an elevated career. Companies prioritize themselves and don’t allow mothers proper time to heal or bond with their babies.

According to Bonnie Marcus of Forbes, motherhood penalizes professional women in several ways. Not only does it negatively affect their income and leadership status, but it also influences their ability to get promoted and hired. They are often overlooked when it comes to career-advancing opportunities.

As a result, millennial career women are painting their paths in their 20s and 30s and choosing to have children or not in their late 30s or early 40s. This isn’t a negative note, as life’s essentials require more revenue, and stability comes with age and maturity.

Today’s Parent states that being an over-40 mom was considered unusual and even dangerous in the past, but today it’s more common and has fewer risks, thanks to medical advancements. A lot of parents wait to start a family once their careers are in focus, they’ve attained a certain level of financial stability, they’ve taken the time to find the right partner, or they’ve benefited from advancements in infertility treatments. Parenthood has become a personal choice based on circumstances, and not a deviation from a single “right” timeline.

This article Why More Women Are Delaying Motherhood To Establish Their Careers was originally published on HerAgenda.com

Kara Fox did not want to wait. A mom of two, she was frustrated by the fall semester at her children’s traditional private school near Omaha, Nebraska, particularly for her 12-year-old son, Gavin. “He just felt so hopeless already in the second quarter, before the end of the first semester,” said Fox, explaining that the rigidity of a conventional classroom and curriculum weren’t working well for her son, who has ADHD and is on the autism spectrum.

Fox tried to communicate with the school, urging changes and more personalization, but she found the teachers and administrators unresponsive. “They were unbendingly focused on their programs and agenda for fifth graders that they weren’t willing to accommodate for meeting him where he was mentally,” said Fox, who has a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education and served for over 20 years in the U.S. Air Force and Air Force Reserve.

She began to look for other educational options for Gavin and his younger brother, Gabriel, a second-grader. When she discovered Masterpiece Academy, a K-12 microschool launched in 2022 by former public school teacher Hannah Holguin, Fox knew it was the perfect place for her children. “When I walked in, the environment — the spirit — was just so peaceful and happy,” she recalled. Fox pulled her children out of their private school in December and immediately enrolled them in Masterpiece Academy, where they are technically considered homeschoolers but attend the onsite, half-day program five days a week, surrounded by peers and taught by experienced educators.

Fox is among a growing number of parents who decide to switch their children’s school midyear, something that is becoming easier to do as microschools and related learning models become more widespread, The 74 reports. Unlike many traditional private schools — which typically have set admissions and enrollment cycles, lengthy application processes, and hefty tuition price tags — today’s emerging schooling models are usually low-cost, flexible, and highly personalized. They often have rolling admissions, with students able to enroll throughout the year.

In states with generous school-choice policies that allow a portion of state-allocated education funding to follow families to their preferred learning environments, students can attend these innovative schools for free or with reduced tuition. That’s the case for most of the students enrolled at Creative Minds, a K-12 microschool in Wendell, North Carolina. It was founded in 2024 by Lisa Swinson, a longtime public school teacher who was working at the state Department of Public Instruction when she decided to become an education entrepreneur. “As I was helping people across the state, I knew that I needed to come back home to help local families because I was starting to hear a lot of conversations about people just needing something different,” said Swinson.

She was accepted into the Drexel Fund Founder Program, a one-year paid fellowship to support promising founders launching new schools, with a commitment to serving low-income students. Swinson’s school has grown from 10 students last year to 34 students today, along with three full-time teachers and an instructional assistant.

Creative Minds is a licensed private school with a full-time tuition of $7,600. Ninety percent of Swinson’s families attend with free or reduced tuition using the state’s Opportunity Scholarships, a school-choice program that became universal in 2023, enabling all North Carolina K-12 students to be eligible for private school vouchers. The remaining 10% of Creative Minds students are homeschoolers who attend the microschool three days a week at an annual tuition of $4,900, or full-time students whose parents pay full tuition out of pocket.

Swinson says that more families in her area are looking for alternatives to conventional schooling—both public and private. She welcomed seven new students to Creative Minds this month. “What I hear from parents is that we provide individualized instruction to their students.

“We individualize everything, from choosing electives to how they go about learning to what curriculum to use. Everything is very personalized,” said Swinson, who uses nationally-normed standardized tests to determine a student’s skill level upon enrollment, and then customizes a learning plan based on the child’s needs and interests.

Microschool founders across the U.S. are reporting midyear enrollment boosts, as families switch from conventional schools toward smaller, more personalized learning environments. At Curious and Kind Education in Sarasota, Florida, founder Justine Wilson enrolled five new students this month, bringing her total K-12 enrollment to 70 students. She says that 97% of her students attend her program tuition-free using Florida’s school-choice programs, which became universal in 2023.

Even in states without robust private school choice programs, microschool founders are reporting midyear enrollment boosts. At the Nevada School of Inquiry, a middle school microschool in Las Vegas, co-founder Christina Threeton welcomed several new students this January, as did Amanda Lucas, founder of Lucas Literacy Lab in New Jersey.

Tom Arnett, a senior fellow at the Christensen Institute, has documented why families are attracted to microschools or similar learning models. “Our research shows that many families who switch schools are driven by the reality that school has become a persistently negative experience for their child,” said Arnett, citing a variety of reasons from bullying to boredom. “We also see many families who haven’t switched yet but are actively considering it. Microschools often resonate with these families because they offer a more human-scale environment that reduces friction rather than asking children to endure it.”

If parents and caregivers are dissatisfied with their child’s current school, they don’t need to wait until next year to make a change. The growth of microschooling, alongside the expansion of school-choice policies in many states, makes creative schooling options more abundant and accessible — enabling families to find the learning environment that is the best fit for their kids.

For Kara Fox in Nebraska, the midyear school-switch has been positive for her boys. “It’s much better because they have been able to just relax and be themselves,” she said. Fox encourages more families to consider changing schools sooner rather than later if they aren’t happy. “I wouldn’t wait. I would just do it. It’s so worth it because it’s your kids,” she said.

This story was produced by The 74 and reviewed and distributed by Stacker. Written by Kerry McDonald.

This article Microschools Are Seeing An Enrollment Surge This Year was originally published on HerAgenda.com

According to Politico, a new wave of women candidates is reshaping the landscape of local politics across the United States, many of whom are mothers. From school boards to city councils, women, particularly younger and more diverse candidates, are stepping into leadership roles at unprecedented levels. 

This shift reflects both growing dissatisfaction with traditional political systems and a recognition that local governance is where meaningful change begins. Organizations supporting first-time candidates report record interest from women seeking to influence policy at the community level.

What was once seen as a secondary political arena is now becoming a critical entry point for a new generation of women leaders determined to make a tangible impact in their communities.

A Surge In First-Time Women Candidates

One of the most notable trends in 2026 is the rise of first-time women candidates entering local races. Many are not career politicians but professionals, educators, healthcare workers, and activists motivated by issues like reproductive rights, education reform, and housing affordability. Their candidacies are often deeply personal, rooted in lived experiences and direct exposure to gaps in public policy.

According to Ballot Ready, more women are running for office than ever before, marking a generational shift in political participation. This influx signals a broader cultural change in how leadership is perceived, with more women seeing themselves as viable candidates rather than outsiders to the political process.

Diversity Is Expanding The Political Pipeline

There are 61 women of color in the 119th Congress, as per the Pew Research Center. Black, Latina, Asian American, and Indigenous women are increasingly running for and winning local offices, helping create leadership that more accurately reflects the demographics of their communities. 

However, women of color still remain largely underrepresented, despite being the fastest-growing group of candidates in local and state elections, per Rutgers. This shift is significant not only for representation but also for policymaking, as diverse leadership often brings new perspectives to issues such as public health, education equity, and economic development.

Grassroots Campaigning Is Redefining Local Politics

Many women candidates are embracing grassroots campaign strategies, relying on small-dollar donations, social media engagement, and community organizing rather than traditional, high-cost fundraising models. This approach allows candidates without established political networks to remain competitive while building stronger, more direct relationships with voters.

Research from the Brennan Center highlights how small-donor fundraising and digital outreach have become increasingly important tools for candidates without institutional backing. These strategies are particularly effective in local elections, where personal connection and visibility often outweigh large campaign budgets. As a result, the pathway to office is becoming more accessible to women from a wider range of socioeconomic backgrounds.

Persistent Barriers Still Exist

Despite this progress, women running for office continue to face structural barriers. Fundraising disparities remain a major challenge, as men candidates often have more established donor networks. Additionally, gender bias continues to shape voter perceptions and media coverage.

A 2023 report from the Pew Research Center found that women in politics are still more likely than men to face gender-based criticism and skepticism about their leadership abilities. Many women candidates also encounter heightened scrutiny around their personal lives, including family responsibilities, factors that are less frequently emphasized for their men counterparts. These challenges underscore the ongoing need for systemic change to create a more equitable political environment.

Why Local Office Matters More Than Ever

Local governments control policies that directly impact daily life, including public education, policing, housing, and infrastructure. Yet voter turnout for local elections remains significantly lower than for national races, leaving critical decisions in the hands of a relatively small portion of the population.

The National Civic League emphasizes that strengthening local participation, including increasing the number of women candidates, is essential for a healthier democracy. As more women step into these roles, they are not only filling representation gaps but also encouraging broader civic engagement and accountability at the community level.

This article A Deep Dive Into The Women Running For Local Office In 2026 was originally published on HerAgenda.com

Oftentimes, Black women are not given proper credit for paving the way and breaking down barriers. The contributions of Black women in arenas such as the insurance industry often get glanced over and are never properly documented or acknowledged. This Women’s History Month, we are going to explore the early insurance industry contributions made by Black women, the barriers they overcame, and how the modern industry still models the innovation of the marvelous women of the past.

Maggie Lena Walker

It is only fitting we start with the first African American woman to own a bank! Born to enslaved parents on July 15, 1864 in Richmond, Virginia. Maggie Lena Walker wore several hats that shaped and molded her to become the foremost female business leader in the United States. Working first as a laundress, then after graduation from college, teaching, and shortly after that, publishing a newspaper. It is clear Maggie was on her way to becoming a huge inspiration to the black community. Her advocacy for women’s rights, work supplying mutual aid and communication tactics for spreading awareness of the need of burial benefits were the pillars Maggie used to encourage financial independence. Maggie Lena Walker is known for her contributions to the financial sector and contributions to the banking industry.

Maggie’s fondness for math and accounting inspired her to open the Penny Savings Bank. By 1924 the bank had acquired more than 50,000 members. After consolidating with two other large banks, the Penny Savings Bank was eventually sold in 2005, ending its status as an independent bank.

Minnie Geddings Cox

During the great depression, while many suffered financially, there are pioneers who found ways to prosper. Minnie Geddings Cox is one of those pioneers. Minnie is responsible for growing the third-largest Black owned insurance company. Taking sole control of the business after the death of her husband, Minnie was determined not to be stopped.

At a time when insurance was considered to be designated for men, as they where providers and women should be taken care of, Minnie grew her agency all while training and recruiting women. Through adversity and disapproval during the Jim Crow era, Minnie succeed.

Viola Mitchell Turner

Working on Black Wall street, we have Viola Mitchell Turner. During a time when women could only work in business as secretaries or clerks, Viola managed to work her way up to Vice President of North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company. During her time climbing the ladder, Viola was a victim of racial and gender discrimination. Through self advocacy and protest, Viola eventually received the equal pay she deserved.

Like today, women are often disregarded in sectors such as finance and trading. During Viola’s tenure at the NCML, she researched, planned and executed a strategy to convert the companies assets to profitable stocks and bonds. Viola has set the bar high for not only women, but the entire life insurance industry.

Ernesta Procope

Given credit for starting one of the first African American companies on Wall Street, E.G. Bowman Company, in 1953. Ernesta’s business was the largest minority-owned insurance brokerage in the U.S.. Ernesta’s journey to success was marked by several historical milestones. One of the most memorable is when red lining caused strife for her African American homeowner clients. Almost 100 for her clients lost coverage. Ernesta knew she had to move swiftly. In an effort to prevent her homeowner clients from losing their homes due to not being insured, Earnesta worked with the Governor of New York to support legislation that mandiagted homeowners insurance be available to all people within the state. With that initiative, the New York State FAIR Plan became the model for plans nationwide. The groundwork Ernesta put in back then, resonates to modern day.

Modern Life Without Pioneers Of Yesterday

The work to spread awareness of the need for financial independence, the advocacy for acquiring financial vehicles to build wealth and the strides in the banking and insurance space was done by Black women building a bridge between the past and modern day. These women placed the bricks that built roads that allow Black Americans to enjoy banking, buy insurance polices and teach others how to do the same.

This article The Financial Legacy Of Black Women In The Early Insurance Industry was originally published on HerAgenda.com

On this, the Foundation’s 40^th Anniversary, Oliveira leaves a powerful legacy advancing gender, racial, and economic justice.

The New York Women’s Foundation honors President and CEO Ana L. Oliveira’s 20 years of service and dedication to the organization and its mission, as she announces her plan to step down later this year. 
 
“Twenty years ago, when I first joined The Foundation, it was at a pivotal moment in its history,” says Oliveira. “We strategically grew The Foundation’s impact and presence, positioning it as a strong, innovative, collaborative leader with a growing national presence. Today, as we mark its 40^th anniversary, The Foundation is poised to soar at a new pivotal moment.”

 
“The value Ana places on community leadership and engagement has made The Foundation a pioneer, shaping how people think about philanthropy,” says Danielle Moss Cox, Chair of the Board. “She’s an incredible convener. Her ability to bring partners across sectors together to rethink and reimagine their level of support to women and girls will be a legacy felt for decades to come.”  
 
“Under Ana’s leadership, The New York Women’s Foundation has served as a truly innovative and mission-driven grant maker and early funder,” says Mary Baglivo, Chair of the Board. “Ana has not only strengthened The Foundation’s ability to move the agenda forward in New York, but nationally as well.”
 
Says Imara Jones, Grantee Partner and Board Member: “Ana’s vision of centering grantees, funding early, and trusting those closest to the problems for the solutions, alongside her expansive view of women and girls – including those who are trans and non-binary – is now considered to be standard across philanthropy. This is her legacy and one which The Foundation will continue to hold dear.”
 
The search for the next CEO is in the early stages, led by the Board’s Search Committee Chairs Anne E. Delaney, Board Alumna, and Lola C. West, Board Vice Chair, in partnership with executive search firm Phillips Oppenheim. 

“Inspired and inspiring, Ana has taken philanthropy by and for women to a whole new level in NY,” says Delaney. “At every stage of growth, Ana has helped elevate the work and provided grantees the support they need to thrive,” continues West. “We are forever grateful to her for her vision of what could be, and her relentless resolve to get there,” say Delaney and West.

About The New York Women’s Foundation

The New York Women’s Foundation is a leading voice for gender, racial, and economic justice. Based in New York City, The Foundation invests in bold, community-led solutions that advance the power and well-being of women, girls, and gender-expansive individuals. Among the largest women-led grantmaking organizations in the world, The Foundation’s influence in shaping philanthropy reverberates far beyond the five boroughs. Since its founding in 1987, NYWF has invested over $133 million in more than 500 organizations, supporting a vibrant ecosystem of grantees, philanthropists, advocates, and innovators committed to lasting, community-rooted change.
 
To learn more about The New York Women’s Foundation or see highlights from the event, visit www.nywf.org

This article Ana L. Oliveria, President And CEO Of The New York Women’s Foundation, Announces Her Decision To Step Down was originally published on HerAgenda.com

Here at Her Agenda, we celebrate and support the ambitious woman. But our ambitions wouldn’t be possible without the incredible women who have come before us.

This Women’s History Month, we’re highlighting trailblazers who have paved the path forward, allowing us to dream bigger and bolder. 

1. Sojourner Truth

Although she was born enslaved to the name Isabella Bomfree in 1797, Sojourner Truth rose to be a fierce abolitionist and women’s rights activist. After experiencing a tumultuous youth, being enslaved, she eventually escaped in 1826 with her infant daughter, forcing her to leave her other children behind. Truth later sued for her five-year-old son’s freedom and won. Making her the first Black woman in US history to sue a white man and win.  She continued this advocacy, eventually giving her famous “Ain’t I a Woman?” speech in 1851 that spoke about the exclusion of Black women in women’s rights spaces.

2. Ida B. Wells

Ida B. Wells was a pioneering journalist known for her work against lynching. Despite how difficult it was for women in the workplace at the time, she rose through the ranks and became a prominent editor for publications such as Memphis’ “The Evening Star,” “Free Speech,” “Headlight,” and owner of “Conservator.” Wells also started a number of organizations for Black women’s freedom, including the Alpha Suffrage Club, the League of Colored Women, and the National Association of Colored Women. A year before her death, she became the first Black woman in Illinois to run for state senate.

3. Shirley Chisholm

Shirley Chisolm was born and raised in Barbados, eventually making her way to Brooklyn, which became her home for the duration of her life. She became a nursery school teacher, and this led her to be very involved in the community, even joining the NAACP. In 1964, she was elected to the New York state legislature and served two terms. In 1968, she became the first Black woman ever elected to Congress and served seven terms, pushing for women’s rights, children, and education. In 1972, she also became the first Black woman to run for president and is known for her slogan “Unbought and Unbossed.” 

4. Addie Wyatt

Addie Wyatt was born in Mississippi, but she became a Chicagoan when her family moved during the great depression. She found work at a local factory applying to be a typist, but was denied and offered a position canning food because of segregation. After becoming outspoken at her job, she eventually became president of her local United Packinghouse Workers of America chapter, making her the first woman to do so. She eventually started working for the UPWA and helped to fight for equal pay for workers of all races and genders.  She continued this work by eventually founding the Coalition of Labor Union Women and the National Organization for Women. In 1975, alongside Representative Barbara Jordan, they became the first two Black women to be named Time Magazine’s woman of the year.

5. Kimberlé Crenshaw

Kimberlè Crenshaw began her career as a law professor at UCLA not long after graduating from Harvard Law School. Her work has helped form legal frameworks, including critical race theory. She also created the term “intersectionality,” referring to multiple prejudices happening simultaneously. Both of these ideas have helped shape programs and policies that have helped form more inclusive workplaces for women. She founded the African American Policy Forum, an organization dedicated to efforts that help to eradicate structural inequalities. In 2014, AAPF created #sayhername to lift the stories of black women killed by the police. 

This article 5 Women Who Paved The Way For The Modern Workplace was originally published on HerAgenda.com

For decades, the “power list” has served as the professional world’s most coveted shorthand for success. However, as the global economy undergoes a major shift, the traditional recognitions of achievement are changing. 

Today, leadership is no longer defined solely by tenure or title, but rather by the audacity to build in the face of uncertainty. At Her Agenda, we recognize that modern women are moving beyond the era of seeking permission. They are designing their own frameworks, funding their own visions, and, quite literally, designing their own paths.

To honor this evolution, we are proud to announce the call for nominations for our inaugural list of The Groundbreakers. Her Agenda will celebrate 50 women who are transforming their fields and shaping the infrastructure of tomorrow.

Being recognized on a curated list is more than a fleeting moment of prestige. We are documenting shifts in those making economic and professional moves. Research shows that visibility is an important tool for women in business. 

According to the 2025 Women in the Workplace report by McKinsey & Co. and LeanIn.Org, women continue to face the “broken rung,” where for every 100 men promoted to manager, only 87 women (and only 81 women of color) make that first step up. Inclusion in a high-profile list helps repair this rung by providing the external visibility and third-party validation necessary to attract sponsorship, venture capital, and board seat invitations. By highlighting these 50 leaders, we are creating a platform for their personal brands, ensuring their impact is seen by the decision-makers who shape the global economy.

Defining The Groundbreakers

A Groundbreaker is a woman who sees a void and treats it as a blueprint. Our 2026 index will focus on five distinct pillars of impact:

• The Ambitious: Rising stars who are fueled by vision and drive. These women are early in their journey but already demonstrating bold action, focus, and promise.
• The Agenda Setters: Cultural visionaries and media influencers shaping conversations across entertainment, fashion, art, and digital platforms.
• The Achievers: Proven leaders with track records of exceptional business results, organizational impact, and measurable success in their industries.
• The Advocates: Changemakers in nonprofit leadership, caregiving, social justice, and community building – perfect for purpose-driven brand alignment.
• The Architects: System builders and infrastructure creators whose work enables others to rise. These women design the frameworks, institutions, and foundations that transform entire fields-their innovations outlast trends and shape what comes next.

We invite you to help us find the women who are challenging norms and redefining the very nature of success. Whether they are building the tech of the future or the social justice frameworks of today, we want to hear their stories.

Nominations for the inaugural Groundbreakers are now open! Applications close on July 18, 2026.

This article The Groundbreakers 2026: Nominations Open Now! was originally published on HerAgenda.com

As children, we’re taught early that “practice makes perfect.” Enter the birth of perfectionism. Perfectionism is a never-ending pursuit to appear flawless, always on-target, focused, and above the curve, and a high-standard goal setter.

While this may appear to be ideal on paper, it creates an unrealistic expectation. Striving to be perfect is impossible, so when that feat is seldom reached, all of that hard work feels like nothing. Inevitably this behavior often leads to anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and burnout.

Present day, the standard is no longer perfection, rather peace of mind. Her Agenda has gathered the evidence to tell you why and how it works better than the past.

How Perfectionism Is Damaging Careers And Lives

According to Ryan Farsai of Forbes, perfectionism among young adults has surged 33% over three decades, driven by mounting social pressure to perform flawlessly. The trend continues to accelerate, with today’s students reporting even higher levels. We’re training people to optimize for grades that don’t exist, then dropping them into workplaces where speed beats polish every time.

Companies are always vetting for the newest, the fastest, and the vulnerable to make them more money. Meanwhile, a person straight out of college is looking for an opportunity, and once presented, will gladly take it, no matter the salary. However, the stress of working like a machine is unrealistic, but the demands are high. Perfectionism controls many jobs, and makes a person feel worthless when they don’t hit targets, deadlines, and quotas.

How Professional Peace Of Mind Took That Power Back

Government Leadership Solutions (GLS) states, to find peace amidst the hustle and bustle of the workplace, we can start by setting boundaries. Define your limits and learn to say no when necessary. Prioritize tasks, and don’t over-commit yourself. This not only reduces stress but also allows you to focus better on your work.

Additionally, GLS believes that effective communication is another key to workplace peace. Misunderstandings and conflicts often arise from miscommunication. Being a good listener, expressing your thoughts clearly, and seeking to understand your colleagues can go a long way in promoting harmony at work.

Knowing When To Say ‘Enough Is Enough’

Ultimately, the line between perfectionism and professional peace of mind is drawn by you. You decide how much you can take on, you voice when you need a break, and you set the boundaries that allow you to perform at your highest capacity in a healthy manner. 

Knowing when to say you’re overwhelmed, overworked, and over it. Don’t over commit when your plate is already full; if you’re aiming for a higher position at the job you won’t make it if you’re in the hospital due to not taking care of yourself.

Key Takeaways

Striving for perfectionism will only lead to a path of destruction. Practice doesn’t make perfect because perfect doesn’t exist. Furthermore, perfectionism is a downhill battle of sacrifice on your behalf to appear flawless and on-target at all times, and when you’re not, everything is wrong.

Perfectionism has damaged careers and lives due to stress and demand. Many mental illnesses have occurred such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and burnout.

Setting boundaries, communicating effectively when you are overwhelmed, overworked is essential. It is also imperative not to over commit at work while ignoring your health. Take care of yourself. 

Lastly, peace is what you make it; and peace is what brings you happiness. You can find peace at work by creating a space that is comfortable, quiet, and serene. It doesn’t take much to build your professional space.

This article Why We Are Trading Perfectionism For Professional Peace Of Mind was originally published on HerAgenda.com

Every woman has probably at least once thought to herself, “I wonder what it’d be like with no men around?” Because the pay gap, misogyny, and downright violence can make the weight of being a woman heavy. 

If you’ve thought about men leaving you alone, you’ll be happy to know that woman-centric spaces are becoming more popular. Between fitness, the arts, education, and more, women are realizing how much they need each other and are finding the capital to invest in ensuring women have safe spaces curated just for them.

Higher Education                                      

Since the 18th century, all-women’s schools have dedicated themselves to educating women. This is special because, at the time, women’s knowledge wasn’t valued, and they were often shunned from education. Barnard, Bennett, Bryn Mawr, Scripps, Smith, Spelman, and more are institutions that have spent decades cultivating safe and enriching educational experiences for young women. Spelman College’s mission statement emphasizes the importance of these values. 

“Spelman College, a historically Black college and a global leader in the education of women of African descent, is dedicated to academic excellence in the liberal arts and sciences and the intellectual, creative, ethical, and leadership development of its students.”

Fitness

In recent years, there’s been an uptick in women-only gyms. These spaces are dedicated to creating safe spaces for women to work out and feel confident without worrying about potential threats that can come from the male gaze. Femme Gym, based in NJ, says this about their purpose. 

“We’re women that don’t compromise our privacy for our health. Femme is a support system that enables us to come together and share our collective experiences in pursuit of reaching the highest level of holistic wellness.” 

Professional Spaces

Corporate America is a notoriously difficult place for women. Between the pay gap and harassment in the workplace, trying to get ahead can feel at times impossible. Women’s professional groups can help women connect and lift each other up. The LOLA is a women’s coworking space in Atlanta that’s dedicated to “intentional inclusion.”

“At The LOLA, we are committed to creating a human-centered community that serves all women. This commitment is reflected in our values. We strive to create a better culture and system that benefits everyone, and we believe that is achieved by better supporting the most underrepresented.”

Book Clubs

Sharing the love of literature is something that women have been doing for a long time. But some women even exclusively read women-centered stories and authors in their clubs. Well-Read Black Girl is a virtual book club founded by Glory Edim that has now expanded into other community events to bring women together. Their mission is to uplift and promote Black women writers and challenge narratives surrounding them. 

“Its mission is to provoke conversations around publishing, politics, and pop culture, and to amplify new work by African-American artists, from authors to activists to playwrights to policymakers. Using literature and storytelling as a tool for advocacy, specifically in the areas of mental health and gender equity, Glory works nationally to shift the narratives of Black girls and women in society.”

Outdoors 

Exploring the outdoors is something that’s been male-dominated for a very long time. Camping, hiking, and backpacking traditionally are associated with men for a number of reasons, but a big one is safety concerns. Going into the wilderness often can be dangerous for women, with hikes being a notorious place where women go missing. But women-centered outdoor spaces are changing what people know to be true about venturing outside. Women Outdoors is an East Coast-based group dedicated to getting more women to explore nature. 

“We are committed to creating an inclusive organization that is welcoming, supportive, and empowering of all self-identified women across all demographic categories, experiences, abilities, and backgrounds. We are all nourished by nature.” 

This article The History Of Women Reclaiming Public Spaces For Safety was originally published on HerAgenda.com

You can’t discuss Black culture without talking about Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The Mecca, Aggies, Spelman, Morehouse, the Rattlers, and more have made an indelible impact on our greatest minds. 

Since the 1830s, HBCUs have created academics, lawyers, musicians, doctors, and a plethora of other leaders who have helped propel the Black community forward. Since their inception, they’ve been a means of self-preservation, growth, and growing the future generation. This is especially true for women who were often given opportunities to thrive in these spaces in a world that often doesn’t make that easy. 

For women’s history month, Her Agenda is taking a deeper dive into how HBCUs have impacted some of our brightest stars and their journeys to success. 

Mary McLeod Bethune was a staunch advocate for Black women in the 1930s, even becoming an advisor for President Roosevelt’s Black Cabinet. In 1904, she founded Daytona Literary and Industrial Training Institute for Negro Girls, which eventually became Bethune-Cookman University in 1923. In her last will and testament, she said this about founding the school:

“Despite many crushing burdens and handicaps, I have risen from the cotton fields of South Carolina to found a college, administer it during its years of growth, become a public servant in the government of our country, and a leader of women.” 

Former Vice-President Kamala Harris is a proud Bison, having graduated from Howard in 1986. In a 2020 CNN interview with Dana Bash, she said this about how that time shaped her: 

“It meant that you could do anything, and you didn’t have to be confined by anyone else’s idea of what it means to be Black. You could be a fine art student and also be class president. You could be homecoming queen and be the head of the science club. You could be a member of a sorority and be in student government, and want to go to law school, and it encouraged you to be your full self.” 

Media icon Oprah Winfrey is also an HBCU graduate and a proud Tennessee State University alum. Her path was a bit unconventional, having taken a full-time journalism job and taking 10 years to graduate. She returned in 2023 to give the commencement speech and spoke about her time in school and what she hopes students will take with them. 

“We need audacious thinkers. Use my example. I was one good TSU teacher, Mr. Cox, and one timely phone call away from a career that would absolutely change my life. That story is not just my own. What dream are you one or two steps away from?”

Stacey Abrams has become a political giant for the Democratic Party over the last decade, but before that, she was a student at Spelman College in Atlanta. In 2022, she gave the commencement speech at her alma mater and had this to say about her experience. 

“I learned at Spelman, to learn my lessons, not my losses. Whether it was somebody breaking up with me, me making a mistake in class, me getting the first C I have ever gotten in my life — and I’m still mad about it — but it was also the loss of friends. The loss of opportunity. You are going to face a great deal of loss. But when we focus on not getting, we ignore what we have received.” 

This article The Enduring Influence Of Historically Black Colleges For Women Leaders was originally published on HerAgenda.com

The gender wage gap has been an issue for female workers for centuries and decades, but the introduction and enforcement of equal pay has gradually changed this. According to the WAGE project this pay disparity affects women of all educational levels, they estimate that women with a high school diploma lose up to $700,000 over a lifetime, those with a college degree about $1.2 million, and professional degree holders up to $2 million, these inequities continue into retirement by reducing Social Security benefits, pensions, savings, and other financial resources.

The Equal Pay Act is a labor law that prohibits gender-based wage discrimination in the United States. This law mandates equal pay for equal work by forbidding employers from paying men and women different wages or benefits for doing jobs that require the same skills and responsibilities. It aims at reducing gender discrimination in the workplace.

The History of Equal Pay

In the early 20th century, women made up a quarter of the American workforce but were paid far less than men. 

Before the Equal Pay Act, 

• Women were paid less than men in nearly every occupation for the same work
• Women were segregated into female-dominated jobs that typically pay less than male-dominated jobs 
• Pay secrecy policies prevented workers from identifying pay disparities
• Discrimination relating to pregnancy and caregiving responsibilities depressed women’s pay
• Wage theft has a disproportionate impact on women, who comprise two-thirds of minimum wage earners

In 1942, efforts were made to correct the wage gap. During World War II, American women entered factory jobs to replace men who had enlisted in the military. The National War Labor Board endorsed equal pay policies in these instances.

Three years later, despite campaigns by women’s groups, little progress was made on pay equity. The U.S. Congress introduced the Women’s Equal Pay Act, which did not pass. By 1960, women still earned less than two-thirds of what their male counterparts were paid.

The Equal Pay Act

To curb the problem of wage discrimination, the Equal Pay Act was passed on June 10, 1963, by President John Kennedy. 

The Equal Pay Act mandates that employers cannot award unequal wages or benefits to men and women working jobs that require “equal skill, effort, and responsibility, and which are performed under similar working conditions.” Kennedy praised it as a “significant step forward,” but acknowledged that “much remains to be done to achieve full equality of economic opportunity” for women.

The Equal Pay Act applies beyond pay; it also includes non-discretionary bonuses, overtime rates and allowances, performance-related benefits, severance and redundancy pay, pension schemes, hours of work, company cars, sick pay, fringe benefits such as travel allowances and benefits in kind. 

However, setting up and maintaining equal pay requires a fair and transparent system. To establish this: 

• The pay and benefits system should be explained to everyone
• There should be clear job descriptions and titles
• There should be limited managerial discretion over all elements of the pay package
• An equality impact assessment should be carried out 

• An equal pay policy should be created 
• Pay systems should be as simple and easy to manage

The Importance of the Equal Pay Act

The Equal Pay Act has significantly helped narrow the gender wage gap in the United States. In addition to this feat, the act affords the following opportunities: 

Economic Boost: Generally, women account for 83% of all U.S. spending among consumers. When they receive less pay, their spending power is limited. The Equal Pay Act stimulates economic growth as women can share their financial gain as consumers.

Legal Action: Under the Equal Pay Act, employees who are discriminated against can file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or directly sue their employer in court. 

An Increase in Innovation: Women will stay out of the workforce if they do not believe the potential pay is worth their time. This decline in workers harms innovation in the workforce because not every eligible worker is contributing their skills to the workforce. So the establishment of the Equal Pay Act increases innovation in the workplace. 

This article Why Every Working Woman Should Know The History Of Equal Pay was originally published on HerAgenda.com

Due to bias and unethical hiring practices, women are still struggling to gain and maintain equal rights, pay, opportunities, and status. These iniquities don’t just appear in the workforce. The iniquities bleed over into home life, politics, and upward mobility in education and career opportunities in leadership roles. This invisible, but very real, collective obstacle is often referred to as the glass ceiling.

Throughout U.S. history, the glass ceiling has shifted in position. The shift is granting more movement on the ladder, but ultimately, the glass ceiling has yet to shatter completely. The women’s rights movement is typically sectioned into three waves: political, economic, and social. Let’s take a look at what the women’s rights movement has accomplished over the last one hundred years.

Political Rights

The first wave of women’s rights is political rights. This wave is considered the first real political movement for the Western world. This historical milestone sparked the first movement of the glass ceiling. The results equate to more representation for women in the world of politics.

Women’s Suffrage

The 1920s marked the moment when women (white women) were allowed to vote. This milestone started the wave of mobility and traction we see today. But it did not stop there.

Visibility in Government and Corporate

The 1930’s ushered in several more milestones. Some of these include the first woman to be elected to the US Senate, Hattie Wyatt Caraway. Another, the first American woman to serve as director of a major corporation, was Lettie Pate Whitehead. As well as being the first woman to serve on a U.S. Presidential Cabinet, Frances Perkins was the Labor Secretary.

Economic Rights

The second wave of the women’s rights movement continued its work, focusing on issues of equality and discrimination.

Equal Employment Rights

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 makes it illegal to make employment decisions based on stereotypes or assumptions about a person’s abilities, traits, or performance because of their race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. According to a study conducted by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), this moment in history marks the beginning of an upward trend of more women professionals participating in the workforce.

The study emphasizes that despite overall increases in participation rates for women in occupations, barriers to entry may still exist. In 2013, women represented 53.2 percent of Professionals, while they made up only 38.6 percent of Officials and Managers. This data reinforces that although progress has been made, there still is a glass ceiling for women in the workplace.

Equal Credit Opportunity Act 1974

One monumental moment in the women’s rights movement that certainly moved the glass ceiling was the right for women not to be discriminated against for loans and other banking opportunities. Prior to the Equal Credit Opportunity Act of 1974, a woman needed a man to co-sign for loans and bank accounts.

Social Rights

Dismantling gender norms and gaining social rights are freedoms that categorize the third wave. Before this wave, the glass ceiling was lower in terms of equality in sports, high-ranking power, and the recognition of acts of violence.

Violence Against Women Act 1994

The Violence Against Women Act funds services for victims of rape and domestic violence, allows women to seek civil rights remedies for gender-related crimes, provides training to increase police and court officials’ sensitivity, and creates a national 24-hour hotline for battered women.

The White House

The third wave of the women’s rights movement has brought us huge historical moments, such as when Madeleine Albright was sworn in as U.S. Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice became the first black female Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton secured the presidential nomination for the Democratic Party, and Kamala Harris marked history when she was sworn in as the 49th U.S. vice president.

Fruits Of All The Labor

Thanks to the hard work of the women of yesterday, the women of today have more height on the metaphoric ladder. Feminism, a belief in the political, economic, and cultural equality of women, has pushed the glass ceiling to new heights. It is important not to forget all the seeds planted by the women’s rights movement. The women before us worked hard. We have to remember to water the seeds and nurture them for the women to come after us.

This article The Evolution Of The Glass Ceiling From 1920 To 2026 was originally published on HerAgenda.com

Each year since 1995, the president of the United States has issued an official proclamation designating March as Women’s History Month. The celebration began in California in 1978 as Women’s History Week. It was scheduled to coincide with International Women’s Day, a global call for gender equality, which was held on March 8th, and had its 115th observance.

In 1980, President Jimmy Carter urged the entire nation to join in, stating, “Too often the women were unsung and sometimes their contributions went unnoticed. But the achievements, leadership, courage, strength, and love of the women who built America were as vital as those of the men whose names we know so well.”

46 years later, President Carter’s words still ring true, as the structural and cultural barriers that lead to women receiving less recognition for their achievements persist.

The latest Women in the Workplace report by McKinsey and LeanIn found that organizations are actually showing declining commitment to gender diversity. Two in 10 companies admitted to placing low or no priority on women’s career advancement. Leadership statistics corroborate this lack of support. In 2025, only 93 women were promoted to manager-level roles for every 100 men. The odds were lower for women of color, with 74 being promoted for every 100 men. 

So, while March may find corporations hosting “Women’s Day” panels, selling “limited-edition” pink and purple branded items, or posting inspirational quotes about how the “Future is Female”, know that these actions are performative and fail to actually move the needle on women’s equality. 

Performative diversity refers to creating the appearance of inclusivity without implementing policies or taking actions to address systemic bias and inequality. What good does a company’s branded merch, social media spotlights, and PR campaign “celebrating” women serve, if that company maintains gender pay gaps, lacks comprehensive policies like paid maternity leave and flexible work arrangements, and fails to provide mentorship or leadership pipelines for the women that work there? 

To be truly effective, organizations must not only talk the talk, but they must also walk the walk. It’s not enough to commemorate a month. Companies need equitable policies, supportive structures, clear guidelines for advancement, systems to track diversity and pay equity, and accountability measures that ensure leadership upholds these practices. 

Don’t get tricked by the superficial; take matters into your own hands this Women’s History Month. Here are some non-performative ways to celebrate: 

1. Learn Women’s History

Make it a point to learn about a woman in history whom you do not know much about. Attend talks, panels, or local events centered on women’s experiences. 

Bonus: If you are part of a book club, choose a book written by a woman or that centers a woman-specific story, then lead a discussion to discuss its impact. 

2. Advocate For Women

Use your platform to share the work of other women, especially women of color, who are often left behind. 

If you are a leader, ensure you model what intentional, equitable leadership looks like. Provide guidance to the women in your team. Women are less likely to receive regular, specific feedback. Lack of feedback hinders growth. Even worse, when women do receive feedback, it tends to be overwhelmingly negative. Commit to letting high-performing women know that they are doing a good job.

If you are a policymaker, don’t be afraid to look at policies through a gender-based lens. Disparate impact refers to practices that appear neutral on the surface but have a disproportionate effect on a protected group. For example, a company may require uninterrupted work experience for promotions, which disproportionately affects women who take maternity leave by making them ineligible. When creating or reviewing policies, it’s fair to ask yourself: Does this unfairly affect the women in this company?

3. Give Back To Women

Volunteer with organizations that support women and girls. Women’s shelters, for example, consistently need volunteers. In addition, women’s toiletry items, such as tampons and pads, are often overlooked when it comes to donations. 

If you have the resources, donate to organizations that fund or support women via entrepreneurship, education, healthcare, and gender-based violence, among other issues. 

Lastly, spend your coins on women-owned businesses. Money talks; financially supporting women who are actually promoting change, rather than corporations capitalizing on this month for profit, goes a long way.  

This article How To Honor Women’s History Month Without Corporate Performative Activism was originally published on HerAgenda.com

Monifa Bandele grew up in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, with both of her parents being activists. In fact, her mom is a social worker and served as a director of the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) when it first began taking classes.

“A lot of what I do today in terms of my advocacy and activism is because of what I saw around me,” says Monifa.

Following her parents’ footsteps, she is currently the Senior Vice President of Maternal Justice Programs, covering everything from maternal health and fighting the maternal mortality crisis to school safety and ensuring children have safe places to learn and play. She oversees initiatives that affect mothers, which include access to childcare, protecting abortion access, and all general policies needed for women to have a healthy way of raising children.

How It All Started

Monifa has worked at MomsRising for the last 14 years and now serves as Chief Operating Officer. She came to this position because she was looking for a new role after the 2010 midterm elections. MomsRising was looking for someone to work on workplace justice. Having previously taken the Amtrak to Washington, DC, two times a week. The job was completely remote, which was rare for the time, giving her the opportunity to stay home with her two daughters when they were young.

“On top of that, I felt that the work was amazing, right? This idea of organizing moms to push policies that work for moms—it makes sense. When you’re making policies around that, you should make sure you’re consulting parents,” says Monifa.

Monifa also volunteers at The Movement for Black Lives, an organization that supports community safety and combats the lingering effects of slavery that are felt today. Additionally, a big part of her volunteer work is addressing prison reform and mass incarceration, which has links to her maternal advocacy day job.

“An overwhelming majority of incarcerated women are mothers,” shares Monifa. “When families are unstable, the communities are unsafe. We really see mass incarceration as family separation. Women who give birth in prisons [and jails are often neglected and shackled during labor]. There are also long-term economic effects, for example, trying to find a job [after incarceration]. A lot of the time, women are the primary partners for people who are incarcerated… or now subsidizing the household,” she continued.

The Fight Continues

MomsRising’s current goal is to save Medicaid. The organization has mobilized thousands of mothers to Washington, DC, and is meeting with members of Congress to have them vote against the Big Beautiful Bill, or as Monifa puts it, the “big bad bill.”

“Even though the bill has passed and been signed, we’re still fighting.”

The group launched its campaign, Medicaid Summer, in 2025. The campaign included mothers and children dressed as bees, buzzing around and sharing the stories of those affected by Medicaid cuts with representatives.

“It’s been really devastating because we have dedicated so much time trying to lower the maternal death rate in the United States, which is the highest among developed countries, and now we have this attack on healthcare, we know that is going to drive this number back up.”

This article Monifa Bandele And The High Stakes Of The Maternal Justice Movement was originally published on HerAgenda.com

Most holidays can be stressful, the prep, the anticipation, and the people. Valentine’s Day is no different, but the imposed altitude of having a ‘person’ is especially magnified on this day. This could make this holiday extremely sorrowful for singles, but it doesn’t have to be.

In life, taking back your power is one of the most liberating and fulfilling things you can do. Instead of being sad that you’re single, Her Agenda has gathered a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing to ensure that you feel loved, even after Valentine’s Day. No date? No problem, show yourself love, that’s the foundation afterall.

Date Yourself

Valentine’s Day may be busy, but planning a date for one can make it easier to make reservations at your favorite restaurant, or if you’d rather stray away from crowds, finding a nice, low-key cafe or speakeasy can be most satisfying. The goal is to discover yourself, what you do and don’t like, how you want to be treated, and so forth.

Dating yourself means you’re treating yourself well, doing things you enjoy, and forgetting about the world. Focus on loving who you are at this moment, and celebrate it. Love will come, but if you love yourself, it will reciprocate properly in time.

Have A Spa Day

Who doesn’t love a spa day? Take the day to pamper yourself and enjoy just being still. Get a massage, facial, and partake in the sauna, jacuzzi, and whatever else is available. Today is about you, splurge a little, you deserve it.

You can find discounted spas on Groupon to save money. A good time doesn’t have to break the bank. Today is about you showing love to yourself; don’t place a limit on that expression.

Reacclimate With An Old Hobby

Doing hobbies is so nostalgic; it reminds you of the last time you did it and the endorphins that ensued afterward. When’s the last time you enjoyed a pastime that brought you complete joy? Tap into your happiness this Valentine’s Day and feel your heart swell with gratitude.

Whether it’s as simple as reading a book, cleaning, going to a sip-n-paint, bowling, people watching, or going to the movies, do it! Whatever you want, whatever makes you happy, is what today’s focus is on.

Sleep In

What a gift it is to be able to sleep in. Crazy that we fought so hard against naps as toddlers. If you’re busy and always on the go, being able to sleep in feels like a luxury; So take this time to fully enjoy it, because when will you get this opportunity again?

Plan ahead to get an ample amount of sleep. Take a nice, long bath, incorporating lavender, eucalyptus, and relaxing scents that will calm your nervous system and help prepare your body for a night of rest. And even if you awake at your normal early hour, lie back down; it’s your day to rest.

Valentine’s Day is truly what you make and is highly based on interpretation. Singles should rejoice that they aren’t in relationships, wishing they were single, in domestically abusive relationships, and worse. You can take this day as a means of reflection to look at the positives in your life and enjoy your solitude. You are free to be. You are able to do what you want and live as you please; tap into that power.

If you’re a millennial career woman, write a pros and cons list over your life, and celebrate that list of accomplishments and the love you have from family, friends, coworkers, and acquaintances. You are full of life, you are healthy, you are here. Enjoy this day of love and love yourself properly.

This article 4 Ways To Show Yourself Love After Valentine’s Day was originally published on HerAgenda.com

Black media has come a long way since Freedom’s Journal’s 1827 debut. Founded by Samuel Cornish and John Russwurm, a four-page, four-column standard-sized weekly hit the stands on March 16th. Freedom’s Journal was the first Black-owned and operated publication in the United States, paving the way for media as we now know it.

Black media ownership is a cornerstone of the Black community. Providing valuable resources, coveted information, and a strong glue connecting the culture. Black media recorded the history of yesterday and will inspire the generation of tomorrow.

Black Media Moved The People

Fast forward to the year 1905, the age of “The Great Migration.” At the center of this mass exodus of African-Americans from the South sat The Chicago Defender. This popular publication positioned Chicago as a place of opportunity for Black people. The power of the press guided Black families from the South to prosperity in the North, Midwest, and Western states of the country.

Breaking Barriers

The work pioneered by The Chicago Defender shaped the future of America’s most successful daily newspaper, Atlanta Daily World. This newspaper successfully obtained advertisements from national companies such as Coca-Cola and employed the first reporter, Harry McAlpin, to cover a presidential press conference.

Shaping Black Pride

The media has the power to define beauty, highlight success, and provoke change. Publications such as Ebony, Jet, and Essence played a crucial role in how African-Americans maintained pride, celebrated beauty, and rallied for the Black community. Though ownership of some of these publications has transferred several times, the core has always been Black excellence.

The Nieman Reports goes on to explain how Jet is credited for igniting the civil rights movement in 1955. Jet published photographs of 14-year-old Emmett Till’s mutilated body. This information sparked the mobilization of the Black community and fueled organizations to invoke change.

Turning The Dial

Detroit, MI, was home to the first Black-owned television station in the United States. Named WGPR-TV, this station was founded by William Venoid Banks, according to VOP News, a Media company. This revolutionary accomplishment paved the way for the January 25th, 1980 launch of the iconic Black Entertainment Television, aka, BET. The TV channel was created out of the desire to have the story of the African-American community told, according to a video created by BET to celebrate its 40th anniversary. Culture-shifting programs such as “Bobby Jones Gospel,” “Video Soul,” “BET News,” “106 and Park,” and “Citia’s World” were a mirror of the culture and a lifeline to the community.

Domination of The Silver Screen

Spike Lee has set high standards in the film industry, impacting Black writers, according to Vocal Media. Lee’s self-funded debut feature film, “She’s Gotta Have It,” premiered in 1986, shocking the world with its unapologetic and intimate portrayals of Black characters. Lee’s vision helped open the door to writing diverse stories of Black characters and the African American experience.

The Claim To Creative Freedom

The 1990’s creative sketch comedy show, “In Living Color,” was created, written, and directed by Keenen Ivory Wayans. This show marked history and is known for being the claim to fame for several modern-day talents. The TV program has also been credited for the transformation of the Super Bowl halftime show. Before 1993, halftime shows were more of a chance to refill drinks and grab snacks. In 1992, “In Living Color” produced a halftime show, causing Super Bowl viewers to switch channels and not return to the game. In 1993, Michael Jackson became the first person to headline the Super Bowl halftime show.

A Digital Pivot Meant More Access

As the world moved online, so did the opportunity for more Black media outlets. The new digital age ushered in an entire landscape ripe for creating. Digital media outlets such as Her Agenda, The Curvy Fashionista, PaSH Magazine, The Shade Room, Blavity, and more provide readers access to representation, culture, validation, and community previously barred due to print being the primary method of distribution.

Technology has changed the way content is both made and consumed. Black creatives have impacted the culture of entire apps such as Musical.ly, Vine, and now TikTok, according to Essence. The culture is highly visible with dance challenges, the creation of an entire lingo, street style, and comedy. More modern series appear on platforms such as YouTube, with “An Awkward Black Girl” by Issa Rae leading to one of the most popular shows of the 2010s, “Insecure.”

More elaborate productions, such as the talk show “Unwine With Tasha K” hosted by Tasha K, or alternatively, social commentary from hosts such as Lovelyti, are actively shaping media’s creation, distribution, and monetization. Variety gives an exclusive interview with KeKe Palmer discussing her new digital network, which is a fusion of traditional Hollywood and independent studios. The media companies give us beautifully produced work packed with culture, storytelling, and a stronger sense of community. While pioneers such as Tyler Perry build entire ecosystems with legacy projects, such as Tyler Perry Studios.

A Legacy Of Innovation

The past 100 years of Black media highlight great achievements. The founders and creators believed in the power of media. The African-American community benefited by gaining access to great storytelling, compelling art, and memorable forms of self-expression.

This article A Media Dynasty: The 100 Year Evolution Of Black Media Ownership was originally published on HerAgenda.com

The information age continuously shows us its pros and cons. Everyone has access to information, which is great for curiosity and thirst for knowledge. But everyone having access to information has seemingly caused a false sense of expertise for some users. In turn, we’re experiencing a huge devaluation of expertise and education.

The Her Agenda Forecast

Today’s Data. Tomorrow’s Agenda.

Have you ever been speaking on a subject or topic that is in your area of expertise, and someone who has nowhere near the amount of information you have tried to correct you? Same. Here’s my story.

I typically don’t break the fourth wall in this column, but this is an opportunity to shed light on a real issue. For context, I received my bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Science. During my undergraduate career, I had a keen interest in domestic violence and its impact on vulnerable women.

One day, I am speaking with someone about this exact subject. I rattle off a couple of statistics related to how hard it is for victims to leave these situations. The unnamed person said, “It’s not hard to walk out the door and start over. Women do it every day.” The statement itself wasn’t shocking, as I’ve heard it many times. However, I still take the chance to educate this person. While doing so, I was asked, “And what makes you an expert?”

To clarify, I knew this person, and they knew my educational background, so they didn’t get the ignorance pass. As I tried to explain that I have written several papers on the subject and taken classes about dangerous familial situations.

But still, they said, “that doesn’t make you an expert.”

While I may not be Dr. Phil, the late nights, several cups of coffee, and cramped fingers that went into researching for and writing the papers make me well-versed on the topic.

From Access To Information To The Illusion Of Mastery

Because of the nonstop access to information, people can easily have their questions or curiosities answered. However, reading an article or two does not an expert make. It barely makes someone a novice when compared to those who have spent over 10 years actually studying a topic.

Social media has been an amazing place for the marketplace of ideas. Everyone having access to several others’ thoughts has brought about some lively discussions. The actual experts have a platform to share their research and results with a larger audience, without a paywall. Because of this, some may feel that, since the information is on social media, it is up for debate. Not to mention, it is hard to tell who is actually an expert. Anyone can say they have a PhD.

All of these things combined make for a wrongful devaluation of expertise. We’ve gone from people having rightful access to the internet and information to people wearing the invisible cloak of mastery. Unfortunately, a medical doctor’s informational video takes up the same amount of space as your favorite vegan influencer’s hot take. It takes a lot of work to verify information, so people may take both videos as fact or one instead of the other.

Somehow, we have got to get back to a time when higher education was respected. With the rise of AI, the rigor of education may be questioned as students are responsible for less and less of the hard work. But society as a whole has to accept that access to facts and information is not the same thing as processing, understanding, comprehending, and applying facts and information. You can buy the ingredients for the cake, but that doesn’t mean the cake is ready to eat when you get home.

How The Devaluation Of Expertise Impacts Women

Research suggests that women in professional settings are consistently met with higher levels of skepticism and are forced to provide more evidence to prove their competence than their male counterparts. This is known as Prove-It-Again bias, a phenomenon documented by the Center for WorkLife Law, where women’s successes are often discounted as luck while their mistakes are remembered longer than those of their male peers.

For a woman, a degree isn’t just a piece of paper; it’s a shield. Yet, even when we hold that shield up, the TikTok Scholar in the comments section feels entitled to poke holes in it. We see this in what women have coined “Mansplaining,” where expertise is treated as a suggestion rather than a fact. According to the Dunning-Kruger effect, people with limited competence in a domain often overestimate their own abilities. When you overlay this psychological bias with gender, you get a toxic mix: men who have done “their own research” (which is usually just a Google search), feeling emboldened to correct women who have done the actual labor.

The Danger Of The University Of Google

The real danger of the illusion of mastery is that it turns life-and-death facts into opinions and vibes. When people devalue the decade of study it takes to understand a subject, they aren’t just being annoying in conversation; they are ignoring the truth.

Confirmation bias allows the uncredentialed to find the one outlier article that agrees with their preconceived notion while ignoring the 99% of expert consensus. This is especially prevalent in wellness spaces, where influencers bypass scientific facts for aesthetic marketing. If you wouldn’t perform your own root canal after watching a YouTube tutorial, why are you trying to outsource the experts on social policy or medical science?

We have to stop treating “I feel like” as a valid rebuttal to “the data shows.” Expertise isn’t elitism; it’s labor. It is the result of thousands of hours of research, peer review, effort, and the humility to know what you don’t know. As we navigate an era of AI-generated summaries and TikTok diplomas, let’s value education again. Access to information is a gift, but the processing and application of that information is a craft.

The Forecast Strategy

The essential resources and mobilization tools you need to stay ahead of the current workforce shift.

In a world where everyone has a megaphone, your expertise is your most valuable asset. Here is how to navigate the illusion of mastery while maintaining your professional authority:

1. Don’t Audition For The Uninformed: When met with a TikTok scholar who questions your background, remember that you do not owe them an itemized receipt of your education. You know your worth and don’t owe anyone a verbal resume.
2. Cite Your Sources: In digital spaces, lead by example. Highlighting peer-reviewed research or professional benchmarks sets a standard that “opinion-based facts” won’t fly.
3. Bridge The Research Gap: Highlight the difference between information and insight. Anyone can find a statistic; few can explain its context.

This article The University Of Google: How The Internet Turned Everyone Into An ‘Expert’ was originally published on HerAgenda.com

American historian Juliet E. K. Walker is credited with coining the term “The Golden Age of Black-owned businesses” for the period between the 1900’s and 1930’s. The term was first seen in her book, “History of Black Business in America: Capitalism, Race, Entrepreneurship.” During this Golden Age, Black-owned businesses thrived, prospered, and impacted the Black community in a positive way. There are several lessons that modern business owners can learn from The Golden Age, and those lessons can still be used today.

The Golden Age is marked by the rapid growth of entrepreneurship in the Black community. Due to segregation and harsh Jim Crow laws, this secondary economy came into existence. Black Americans were forced to turn to creativity and ingenuity to sustain their communities. Leaders such as Booker T. Washington helped create the National Business League, just one of the many tools that helped eager community leaders start mom and pop establishments to service communities shut out from the primary economy.

The Importance of Banking

A few key lessons stand out while exploring this period of time. One of them is the importance of banking. Banking is the foundation of all successful economies. According to WPLN, One Cent Bank, now Citizen Savings Bank & Trust, was the brainchild of 16 local businessmen and community leaders who shared a vision to provide fair and adequate financial services to the underserved African-American community. Established in 1904, Citizen Savings Bank & Trust still stands today.

In the modern day, the importance of having access to banking and financial institutions still rings true. Without payment processing, a place to store capital, the opportunity to build credit, and access to funds, business owners will find themselves shut out of the opportunity to operate in any community.

Building A Strong Community

During this time period, building was the common theme. Black business owners focused on providing basic needs and services to sustain the community. Small businesses such as barber shops, funeral homes, hotels, and restaurants sprang into action. Often established by local community members looking to support their families and provide essential services to the communities in which they reside.

Small business owners struggling in the present day might take note of the importance of the “boring” business. An article in Entrepreneur, a news outlet, explores how boring businesses are the backbone of our economy. Although a boring business might not be shiny and glamorous, they provide everyday needs such as laundry services, home repair, and other essentials that keep a community running.

Participating In Group Economics

The pooling of resources, skills, knowledge, and the circulation of wealth are the primary ideals surrounding the term “group economics”. Participation in this cooperative ecosystem maximized contributions from all members of the collective. Starting small businesses that practiced group economics ensured skills were utilized, money stayed within the community, and the opportunity to build and sustain an abundant lifestyle was possible.

Similar to The Golden Age, business owners of today are finding value in participating in the pooling of resources. A newer trend involves starting collectives or co-ops that utilize the different skills of its members. Co-ops share office space, resources, and at times, offer different levels of service to the same set of clients.

Mentorship

The importance of pouring into like-minded professionals and building the next generation is the core of any successful economy. During the Golden Age, blacksmithing, woodworking, weaving, and pottery were skills and crafts that were taught and passed down by leaders in the communities from town to town.

Thanks to technology, the internet, and social media, mentorship is more accessible, but just as important. Individuals looking to learn a skill, master a trade, or simply look for guidance can hop on a Zoom, take an online course, or watch a YouTube video. Regardless of the medium, mentorship has and always will be needed.

A Mirror Of Success

The Golden Age is arguably the most successful era for Black businesses. During the Golden Age, individuals came together to form a secondary economy. This economy boomed, flourished, and prospered at a swift rate. To this day, many are still learning from this time period. Mirroring the business practices of that time would be wise, as there is much to learn, even today.

This article 4 Lessons From The Golden Age Of Black-Owned Businesses was originally published on HerAgenda.com

The ongoing ICE Out protests have taken a sharp and alarming turn for the media. On the morning of Friday, January 30, 2026, federal agents arrested Emmy Award-winning journalist Georgia Fort at her home in Minnesota. Her arrest follows the late-night detention of former CNN anchor Don Lemon in Los Angeles. Both journalists are facing federal charges stemming from their coverage of a January 18 protest at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota.

The arrests have ignited a firestorm of criticism from First Amendment advocates. They argue the Department of Justice is being used to chill press freedom and intimidate independent storytellers who are documenting the current wave of civil unrest.

Georgia Fort And Don Lemon’s First Amendment Rights Violated

Georgia Fort is a trusted voice in Minnesota and a three-time Midwest Emmy winner. She documented her own arrest via a Facebook Live stream at 6:30 a.m. as federal agents arrived at her door. In the video, she explained that the arrest stems from the fact that she filmed a protest as a member of the media. She expressed a deep concern that constitutional rights for the press are being ignored.

For the Her Agenda community, Georgia Fort is more than a headline. She is a visionary media leader who has dedicated her career to representation, ethics, and accountability. As the founder of the Center for Broadcast Journalism and the driving force behind Power 104.7 FM, she has worked tirelessly to build a media infrastructure that reflects the diverse communities it serves.

Georgia’s daughter spoke tearfully at a press conference following the arrest. She emphasized that her mother is a professional documenting community truths, not an activist. This distinction is at the heart of the legal battle. The government is reportedly charging Georgia with conspiracy to violate constitutional rights and interfering with the right to religious freedom at a place of worship.

According to CNN, Don Lemon was taken into custody by federal agents in a hotel lobby in Beverly Hills. He was in Los Angeles to cover the Grammy Awards. His attorney, Abbe Lowell, characterized the arrest as a stunning and troubling effort to silence and punish a journalist for doing his job.

This arrest is particularly controversial because a federal magistrate judge had previously rejected the government’s attempt to charge Lemon last week. The judge found there was no evidence of criminal behavior involved in his work. However, the Trump Justice Department moved forward by seeking a grand jury indictment to secure the warrants.

Why This Matters For Media Ethics

In her previous conversations with Her Agenda, Georgia warned that the single biggest barrier to restoring public trust in media is government involvement in what is and what is not being covered. She argued that if media outlets want to regain trust, they must establish independence from government oversight.

The arrest of a journalist for bearing witness sets a dangerous precedent. Georgia took this role seriously when she was one of only two reporters allowed inside the courtroom for the sentencing of Derek Chauvin. If journalists can be charged with conspiracy simply for filming a protest on private property, the slanted coverage Georgia often critiqued will become the only narrative available to the public.

First Amendment groups have blasted the move as an authoritarian breach. Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison also expressed deep concern. He stated that in Minnesota, we do not treat journalists like criminals for doing their jobs.

As Georgia’s legal team prepares for a federal court appearance, her own words from our past interview resonate with renewed urgency. She noted, “folks are more willing to put their trust in an individual than they are in an institution.”

This article Georgia Fort And Don Lemon Arrested In Connection To Minnesota Protests was originally published on HerAgenda.com

Friday, January 30, 2026, the American professional landscape is not operating as usual. As thousands of students, workers, and business owners participate in the National ICE Out Protests, the movement regarding Immigration and Customs Enforcement has transitioned from a localized protest in Minneapolis to a nationwide economic event. For the professional woman, this moment presents a profound leadership challenge. We must navigate a climate where the safety of our teams, the education of our children, and the ethics of our businesses are being influenced by the actions of federal agencies.

The Her Agenda Forecast

Today’s Data. Tomorrow’s Agenda.

The ICE Out strike is a response to an escalating enforcement surge that has claimed the lives of eight people since the start of the year. This includes the high-profile deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, which were captured on video and sparked immediate outrage. Looking at the data, perceptions of ICE are headed south. Polling from YouGov indicates that a majority of Americans now support a major restructure of the agency. This sentiment has also reached the boardrooms and classrooms we navigate daily, as more people conclude that the current system does not promote a stable and productive society.

According to The Guardian, organizers from groups like 50501 and various student unions are making a simple yet powerful point. The American economy depends on the very people who are currently living in fear. By calling for no work, no school, and no shopping, they are attempting to quantify the value of the immigrant workforce and their allies through the vacuum created by their absence.

What Role Do Women Play In The ICE Out Protests?

For many women in leadership, neutrality has long been the default professional setting. However, this is changing in 2026. The Guardian also reported a surge in the #DontServeICE campaign, in which retailers, gas stations, and restaurants are refusing service to agents as a matter of community safety. This has gone past political battle. It is about the social license to operate. When a business or a community no longer feels safe due to the presence of masked agents who have violently detained workers and children, the decision to refuse cooperation becomes a matter of protecting your own infrastructure and staff.

The shift is particularly visible in the hospitality sector. The No Housing for ICE campaign is pressuring hotel chains to stop providing rooms for agents during raids. As professionals who often manage travel budgets and vendor relationships, we have the leverage to ask important questions. We should know if our preferred hotel partners prioritize the privacy and safety of all guests or if they facilitate activities that disturb the local workforce.

Students’ Rights Are At Risk

Perhaps the most heated frontline of this strike is our school systems. In metro Atlanta, Chicago, and throughout the Pacific Northwest, thousands of students have committed to walking out of class. According to CBS News, the response from school administrators has been a mix of caution and, in some cases, outright intimidation. Districts in Georgia and Arizona have warned that students leaving class could face out-of-school suspensions and the loss of extracurricular privileges.

More troubling is the rhetoric being used by certain school boards. Letters sent to parents suggest that these disciplinary marks could have long-lasting impacts that might be taken into account by college admission offices and future employers. This is a direct attempt to use the professional world as a weapon against civic expression. While schools have a legal right to discipline for unexcused absences, the law forbids them from punishing students more harshly because their absence was politically motivated.

When a school district threatens a student’s entire career path because they protested the detention of a five-year-old classmate like Liam Ramos, they are failing their primary mission. Education should foster engaged and ethical citizens, not compliant observers of injustice.

A workplace cannot thrive in an environment of fear. Recent data from the Better Life Lab shows that intensified immigration enforcement directly reduces maternal employment and disrupts the childcare market. This particularly affects highly educated immigrant women. When our colleagues are afraid to drop their children off at school or drive to the office, the entire productivity of the organization suffers.

Leadership is about more than just managing a budget. It is about managing a culture. You can start by reviewing your internal protocols. Does your office have a policy for what to do if federal agents arrive without a judicial warrant? You can also advocate for students by pushing back against school boards that threaten their futures. Remind administrators that the professional world needs leaders who are willing to take a stand.

The Forecast Strategy

The essential resources and mobilization tools you need to stay ahead of the current workforce shift.

Legal Rights and Student Advocacy

Free Speech for Students: The official guide to the First Amendment in public schools.

Know Your Rights (Immigrants’ Rights): A guide for employees and managers on how to handle interactions with federal agents.

This article Navigating The Impact Of The National ICE Strike On Workplace Stability was originally published on HerAgenda.com

The Her Agenda Forecast

Today’s Data. Tomorrow’s Agenda.

The Black woman: Everyone’s trusted work friend. The most educated demographic. The “backbone of the economy.” All of these amazing attributes seemingly push Black women to the forefront of the workforce; however, they are suffering the most. According to Essence, 600,000 Black women in the workforce lost their jobs in 2025. To add insult to injury, reports indicate that the rate of unemployed Black women (7.3%) is nearly double that of the national average (4.4%). It causes one to wonder how Black women can genuinely be considered the “backbone of the economy” if they are not actively participating in it.

The truth is, Black women being sidelined in the workforce is one recession indicator no one saw coming.

When it comes to any American crisis, Black women are usually the first to feel the consequences. As TIME reported, the demographic was the first to experience job loss and trouble making ends meet during the Great Recession of the late 2000s. Soon after, the rest of the country began to have the same troubles.

Further examples were provided during the COVID-19 recession, with many systemic factors at play. During the pandemic, Black people were more likely to contract the virus. Additionally, they were more likely to die once contracting the virus. This was due to a lack of COVID testing in predominantly Black neighborhoods, poor or nonexistent healthcare, and medical bias. Even more so, those who worked in low-wage jobs such as fast food restaurants or custodial services were at even higher risk of catching the virus. And it’s no coincidence that Black women are highly represented in these lines of work.

Despite the health risks, Black women in the workforce were the first to get the boot and experience unemployment. 16.5% of Black women were unemployed in early 2020. Soon after, the rest of the country began to experience high rates of unemployment.

On top of those recessions, Black women experience “low wages, little security, and few benefits and are underrepresented in the highest paying careers. Even in good times, Black women have lower promotion rates, receive the least managerial support, and are typically paid less than white men with the same or even lower levels of education,” according to “The Double Tax” by Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman.

What’s most important to point out in all of this terrifying data is that, typically, once Black women began to economically suffer, soon after… so did the rest of the country.

How Is Less Black Women In The Workforce A 2026 Recession Indicator?

2025 was a year full of great moments. Beyoncé finally won Album of the Year, Kendrick swept the Grammys, “Sinners” grossed nearly $400 million, and A’ja Wilson won her fourth MVP award. Unfortunately, 2025 was also a year of great losses. After President Trump began his second term, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives took a big hit. Many corporations, institutions, and brands revised and revoked their initiatives, leaving minorities out in the cold.

With the DEI initiatives stripped away, discrimination became easier, and Black women again felt the pain. According to the 2026 State of the Dream data, over 270,000 federal jobs were eliminated in 2026. Black people, specifically women, are overrepresented in federal and government jobs, meaning the elimination of those jobs effectively wiped out Black middle-class families.

While national headlines report that unemployment is improving, as history has taught us, whatever Black women experience is a small indication of what is to come. Not to mention, Trump has been known to remove people in high positions and replace them with people who are a little more agreeable to him. TIME reports that the President suddenly fired the Bureau of Labor Statistics commissioner and nominated a replacement, so soon, labor statistics may become unreliable.

Another factor, that sometimes goes unconsidered, is that fewer Black women in the workforce doesn’t only indicate that they are being laid off or fired. It also indicates that they are not being hired. Anyone who spends any time on LinkedIn doesn’t need to read any statistics to know that Black women are suffering in the job market. Ignoring DEI doesn’t just affect those who already have jobs, but also those trying to find employment. Black women are the most educated demographic and the “backbone of the economy,” but there is no incentive to hire them anymore. Though there shouldn’t need to be an incentive other than the potential they bring to the position.

The National Women’s Law Center reported that Black women, on average, experience 14.5 weeks of unemployment before securing a job. Black men have to wait 12.1 weeks before being hired, while white men wait about 9.6 weeks and white women wait 8.6 weeks. As mentioned in The Washington Post, when Black women lost their jobs, the positions were not eliminated as one might think. Those jobs were then picked up by White and Latinx people.

The barriers facing Black women in the workforce don’t stop at unemployment rates. They range from algorithmic bias in hiring software to managerial harassment. However, these obstacles do not define the capacity for achievement; they simply change the strategy required to reach it. By understanding the current economic forecast and leveraging the right technical and community resources, we can navigate this shifting landscape with the same resilience that has always characterized our professional journeys. As we move forward, turn this individual resilience into a collective power move.

The Forecast Strategy

The essential resources and mobilization tools you need to stay ahead of the current workforce shift.

Pivot Strategy: If you have been impacted by federal cuts, utilize the National Urban League’s Jobs Network to find private-sector roles that value high-level administrative and policy experience.

Funding Your Own Agenda: For those moving into “necessity entrepreneurship,” check the current Her Agenda Breakthrough Grant, which specializes in helping Black women scale brands! The deadline to apply is January 18, 2026.

Skill Reshaping: Explore the WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) grants in your local state to receive free certifications in emerging tech and AI-integration to stay competitive in a shrinking corporate landscape.

This article Black Women In The Workforce Are The Economic Warning Sign We Cannot Ignore was originally published on HerAgenda.com

Dr. Janell Green Smith may have been known to many as a certified midwife at Prisma Health Greenville Midwifery Care in South Carolina; however, her title didn’t end there. According to Dr. Janell’s Instagram, she was a Believer, a wife, a photographer, a Loc’d midwife, a Doctor of Nursing Practice, and a Black maternal health advocate. Impressively, Dr. Janell accomplished these titles by her early 30s.

Tragically, Dr.Janell passed away at age 31 on January 2nd, 2026, shortly after delivering her first child/daughter, Eden. The complications of childbirth delivery specifics have not been publicized. According to People, Dr. Janell Green Smith, a South Carolina-based midwife, dedicated her life to advocating for Black maternal health and safe childbirth.

As you scroll down her timeline, pictures and videos reflect love and light as she gives you a glimpse into her life. Countless smiles and laughs show Janell celebrating New Year’s, Birthdays, and ‘Nurseaversarys’. All of which are now memories her friends and family can look back on to cherish times when she was here.

Four days ago, the American College of Nurse-Midwives released a statement on Facebook extending condolences and, in part, saying, “We grieve Dr. Smith’s loss and recognize it as a profound failure of the systems meant to protect birthing people. In her honor, ACNM commits not only to reaffirming our values, but to intensifying our actions to dismantle racial inequities in maternal health, strengthen accountability in care systems, and work alongside Black midwives, clinicians, and communities to prevent future tragedies.”

According to the CDC, Black women are three times more likely to die from a pregnancy-related cause than White women. Multiple factors contribute to these disparities, such as variation in the quality of healthcare and underlying chronic conditions. Social determinants of health prevent many women from racial and ethnic minority groups from having fair opportunities for economic, physical, and emotional health.

These statistics align with the American College of Nurse-Midwives’ description of Janell’s death as “a profound failure of the systems meant to protect birthing people.”

Dr. Janell’s untimely death has impacted many lives, including people she’s never met. A GoFundMe account has been started to support her untimely death and funeral expenses, newborn essentials such as diapers, clothes, and medical needs, and living expenses to give her husband adequate time to grieve without financial pressure.

The money will also go towards ongoing support and stability for Daiquan and the baby in the months ahead as they adjust to this new reality; any contribution, no matter the size, will help provide stability, relief, and care during a time when the family needs it most.

This article Memorializing More Than A Midwife: Dr. Janell Green Smith, Gone Too Soon After Childbirth Complications was originally published on HerAgenda.com

Every now and then, taking a break and unplugging from social media can be beneficial in many ways. You never know how much real life you miss due to the countless distractions that social media provides.

If you’ve been thinking of taking a break but aren’t convinced of when, why, or how to unplug for a while, here are some benefits that may entice you.

More Productivity

Social media is a distraction; it can make it difficult to get work done, which decreases productivity. And when you’re not working efficiently, it can become overwhelming, especially if there are deadlines and quotas involved. With more productivity, you’ll feel accomplished and proud of yourself. This will allow for better work and possible promotions.

Mental Clarity

When your mind is clear of the clutter and chaos that social media provides, it’s free to welcome in the good. You can read a book, garden, or be fully engaged in the moment. Have you ever gone out to a restaurant and seen an entire family on their cellphones? There are no conversations being had, no bonding, no real connections; yet everyone is connected. Clarity puts things into perspective and helps you see things as they truly are.

Better Connections/Focus

While social media is great for reconnecting with people, it’s not great for making real connections. Essentially, the digital age creates social media relationships, and you never see those people in real life. When you’re unplugged, you develop better connections with real people in real time because you’re able to focus, have conversations, and listen without distractions.

No Comparisons

The 26th U.S. President, Theodore Roosevelt, once said, “Comparison is the thief of joy,” and that couldn’t have rang truer when it comes to social media. Everyone wants what the other has and portrays a ‘perfect’ life. Comparison can also be debilitating. By unplugging, there is nothing to compare but yourself. This can form a competition for you to challenge yourself to become great, stronger, and smarter.

This article 4 Benefits Of Unplugging From Social Media In The New Year was originally published on HerAgenda.com

Bucket lists are fun to create simply because they’re a list of places, things, goals, and dreams we’d like to experience. The cool thing about this is that it can change every year. Whether you like or want to travel, do more hobbies, grow business-wise, or free up more time for adventures, you can make this list your own.

Don’t hold back when it comes to your bucket list; it’s yours. Whatever you desire should be listed and placed in order of importance. Below you’ll find encouraging tips on how to create a well-rounded bucket list that supports your lifestyle and ambitions as you enter the new year.

Be Professional Optimistic

Face your fear professionally. Make 2026 all about going for your highest goal and attaining it. Let go of your doubt, fear, and negativity and replace them with ambition, optimism, and drive. Know that you can attain anything you want with hard work and dedication. List your professional goals as number one on your bucket list, and check it off once you’ve landed that dream position.

Do Something New You’ve Always Wanted To

Trying new things is all about discovering new things you like and new sides of life. You’re essentially unboxing new ways to enjoy life by seeing what excites you, what’s not for you, and exploring new avenues. Don’t hold back in 2026, let your curious mind discover what it’s like to zipline in the tropical rainforest, ride jet skis in the Pacific Ocean, or parasail at 300 to 500 feet high in the sky.

Skate Outside Your Comfort Zone

There are no limitations on life in 2026, and there will be none on your bucket list. Your bucket list should be full of comfort-zone-free options. You can start small and work your way up to higher thrills. For example, if you’ve always wanted to skydive, but you’re not quite there yet, you can try indoor skydiving to get a feel for it, and maybe six months down the road, you’ll be ready to jump out of that plane! You’ve got this!

Impress/Inspire Yourself

Impress yourself by finishing something you’ve started. Pinpoint a goal/vision you have that isn’t complete and see it through. Sometimes big projects bring out the best in us and become our greatest work. Don’t focus on how long it’ll take to complete; focus on giving your all and making it a masterpiece.

This article How To Create The Perfect 2026 Bucket List was originally published on HerAgenda.com

Last-minute shopping is no longer a hassle thanks to technology. Working women that have to balance work, family, and inevitable end-of-year demands can confidently rest easy thanks to modern day assistance.

If you still have some Christmas gifts to check off of your list, Her Agenda has some helpful tools to free you of stress, and purchase everything you need, and possibly pick it up the same day.

Tech Tools That Are Saving Time And Christmas

Thanks to buy-online-pick-up-in-store, curbside pickup, and same-day delivery, and gift guides apps you can conveniently order your last minute Christmas gifts from the comfort of your bed or your desk at work. Many women professionals can work without worrying about getting off to shop in crowded stores with barely anything left, and the dreadful long lines.

Stores like Walmart, Target, Macy’s, Kohl’s and a host of grocery stores offer curbside services for your convenience. And FiveBelow and Old Navy offer buy-online-pick-up-in-store.

AI Recommendations Assist With Purchases

Most retail websites offer AI assistance and can be of help if you’re unsure of what you’re looking for. AI can offer recommendations, and substitutes if what you’re looking for isn’t available. 

Amazon led the way by rolling out its Rufus chatbot in 2024. Walmart’s Sparky chatbot is available on app and can synthesize reviews or offer product recommendations based on occasions, such as Christmas. Target recently unveiled a gift finder chatbot on its app, but it’s only available for the holiday season. Ralph Lauren partnered with Microsoft on the “Ask Ralph” chatbot to provide style recommendations.

Land Last-Minute Christmas Deals

Chain Store Age reports that in-store shopping will remain key for last-minute shoppers, with 88% planning to spend in physical stores. Shopping centers will also be an important destination, with nearly eight-in-10 (79%) shoppers planning to visit a retail property, led by Gen Z (89%) and millennials (86%).

Some millennial women may have to trek through the aisles of stores last-minute, however going into the stores with a budget and an idea of what you’re looking for will save time and effort.

However, sometimes being last-minute has its perks. The closer it gets to Christmas, the cheaper items become, as retailers are preparing to transition to the next holiday. In these cases you could find markdowns, clearance items, and good sales. Amazon currently has an online sale with something for everyone in your family. Amazon works best if you have a subscription, as it allows for shorter delivery times.

This article How Women Are Using Tech to Win Last-Minute Holiday Shopping  was originally published on HerAgenda.com

If you’re looking for Christmas gift inspiration you’ve come to the right place. There are so many avenues to look at when it comes to finding the right gift, and exploring trending gifts can sometimes make your search a bit easier.

Whether you’re looking for comfort, luxury, music essentials, or something simpler, Her Agenda has gathered four of your Christmas must-haves due to popular demand.

Apple Airpods Pro 3

These Airpods are perfect if you’re looking for a music upgrade. The battery is said to have a longer hold, there’s a more quality sound from previous Airpods, and they’re water and sweat resistant.

Many millennial women wear Airpods on the go, as they are compact and convenient. You can wear them in the office, while working out, during meetings, or while relaxing.

Amazon and Walmart have them on sale for $199.

Oversized Blanket Hoodie

The winter months make coziness a priority. Whether you like blankets, robes, or throws it’s always nice to be snuggled into something that makes you feel warm.

This oversize blanket hoodie offers everything you want in one piece. Having a blanket that’s both soft and big is a dream to lay in and watch TV, stay warm while you work from home, or get comfy and sleep in. The sherpa material has huge pockets, with the option of zippers.

For the millennial woman this piece would serve as a great gift for the long days at the office, or as a means to relax after a hard day. And as women, when our cycles can disturb our lives once a month, an oversized hoodie can bring extra comfort.

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

This bag is selling out in stores and online due to its versatility. You can wear it as a fanny pack, waist or shoulder bag. It can store keys, wallets, cell phones, and essentials.

This is the perfect on-the-go bag for millennial working women that need a nice sized bag that’s cute and sustainable. The everywhere bag also has water repellent fabric, and is available in eight assorted colors.

You can find this bag on the Lululemon site for $38.

Grill Baskets

Keeping health in mind as Q4 ends, these grill baskets are flying off the shelves. If you know a grill master, this gift is for them. These stainless steel grill baskets can create the perfectly charred seafood and vegetables. Actually, anything you grill with the baskets will be delicious, as they are evenly grilled due to its rotation capabilities.

Dinner is made simple for the working woman as all you have to do is toss in your favorite protein and vegetables and let the basket do the rest.

You can find the grill baskets on Amazon for $25.99.

This article The Most Popular Christmas Gifts Women Are Actually Buying This Year was originally published on HerAgenda.com

As Michelle Obama opens up about her evolution of style and self-expression in her forthcoming book, “The Look,” she invites readers behind the scenes of some of her most iconic fashion and beauty moments.

At the heart of that journey are two trusted voices: longtime hairstylists Yene Damtew and Njeri Radway — the women behind the former First Lady’s signature looks, from polished White House blowouts to the braid-forward styles that continue to spark global conversation and inspire women everywhere.

For Yene, this moment is about more than hair — it’s about heritage, confidence, and redefining what power looks like. A proud Ethiopian-American entrepreneur and champion of textured-hair artistry, she has dedicated her career to empowering women to embrace authenticity, whether they’re seated in her salon chair or stepping onto the world stage. Njeri, equally committed to honoring identity through craft, brings a perspective rooted in storytelling, cultural pride, and a deep understanding of how beauty can shape history.

Together, Yene and Njeri offer a rare inside look at the artistry, intention, and emotional depth behind the styles we’ve come to recognize — and why something as intimate as hair can become a statement of strength, freedom, and self-defined power.

Her Agenda spoke with both women about The Look, working alongside a global icon, and how they’re shaping conversations around beauty and representation that reach far beyond the chair.

Her Agenda: How did you both get your start in hair? Has hair always been a passion?

Njeri: It started with me going to the hair salon with my mother every other weekend. It started as early as elementary school, and I remember just being fascinated by the art of it all. I was in community college, not by choice, it was more so having Jamaican parents, and education is key. However halfway through it I decided it wasn’t for me and hair was a hobby I enjoyed it, so I enrolled into cosmetology school.

Yene: We have a lot of similarities. I went to cosmetology school at the age of 16. My fascinations with hair probably grew at a very early age. And what drew me in was on Sunday mornings my mother used to put hot rollers in her hair and go into the shower. It was super fascinating to me how it all worked out. I’m like wow you’re putting all these things in your head and all of a sudden you have this bounce; and that’s where the interest first sparked.

Her Agenda:  What does it mean to both of you to be a part of the former First Lady’s team?

Yene: She is no different than any other person that is trying to look and feel their best. That interpersonal relationship – being there to share good, bad, highs and lows with somebody – is what this industry is about. So for me having that privilege to understand that someone of that stature is just like every single one of us, and we always idolize people in that position, but to realize that they’re human beings, that’s the feel good that they’re able to pour back into you the same way that you pour into them, and it’s mutual. 

Njeri: I agree, I echo everything Yene is saying, but when people ask ‘What is she like?’ I’m like ‘What you see is what you get.’ [She’s a] real authentic, black woman, who is out here trying to make a mark on the world, and is trying to survive. While also spreading light and wisdom throughout, she’s also trying to show up as her best everyday.

Her Agenda: How long have both of you been with Michelle Obama?

Yene: I started in 2009 with the family. My primary focus was Ms. Robinson (Michelle’s mother) and the girls (Malia and Sasha). And then I stood in as a backup for Johnny Wright, who was her primary hair stylist throughout the White House years. And then I started as her colorist in 2012. So we’ve been with her for over [a] decade.

Njeri: I started in 2010, brought in by Yene, to work under Johnny Wright as his second assistant. And I was also more so helping with the girls along with Yene. I came out of the shadows in 2022 for “The Light We Carry” tour when she debuted her braids. 

Her Agenda: What has it been like working with Michelle Obama, creating looks, and being featured in her Look book?

Yene: The book was comprised in a way of storytelling. The book was [written] to be nostalgic and to share and highlight the processes and explain her time starting prior to the White House, going into the White House, and her post life. For me it was more about sharing my story as it relates to working with her, and talking about how we connected, how we began working with one another. Then there’s the part of our work being featured because we’re a part of these historical moments.

Njeri: You said it all. Honestly we’ve been here, we’ve been grinding. We’ve been doing what it is that we love to do. Not necessarily looking for the recognition, yes it’s great, I appreciate it all; but we show up and work hard, not looking for clout. It is great to be acknowledged now after so many years, and that’s a testament to our loyalty and our dedication and hard work.

Her Agenda: When it comes to hair, do you all have a motto?

Yene: “Good hair is healthy hair.”

Njeri: That part! You took the words out of my mouth!

This article Meet The Women Behind Michelle Obama’s Most Iconic Hairstyles was originally published on HerAgenda.com

Conde Nast’s recent decision to fold Teen Vogue into Vogue marks a significant turning point in the media world, prompting broader discussion on the evolution of youth journalism. This news raises critical questions about how the unique content cultivated by Teen Vogue after years of work will adapt within the broader context of Vogue’s established brand.

In 2003, publishers founded Teen Vogue as the ‘baby sister’ to Vogue magazine, creating a physically smaller magazine aimed at the teen demographic to guide them into fashion and celebrity news and cultivate future Vogue readers. Gen X writers at Teen Vogue created a space for millennials that allowed teenagers to be teens before social media existed. Subsequently, millennials writers at Teen Vogue later on turned the publication into a serious news publication that took Gen Z girls as a legitimate audience, offering stories about fashion but also award-winning journalism.

How Teen Vogue Made It’s Mark

While the name of the magazine might make people think of teen girls, Teen Vogue is considered a pioneering platform for journalism, in various subjects, from political commentary, to prioritizing marginalized communities, to an entire section just for teaching about history.

According to Conde Nast and Vogue, Teen Vogue is remaining a separate site focused on youth, and thus, should remain the same entity, however, the popular politics section has been laid off. The Teen Vogue Editor-in-Chief Versha Sharma has also left the company. The union reports that only one woman of color remains at the publication.

The public reacted to the end of Teen Vogue with mixed opinions along party lines, but the journalism community largely views it negatively. Emily Bloch from The Philadelphia Inquirer said, “Laying off the entire politics team a day before the NYC election is heinous and a knife in the back to a brand that has solidified its importance for youth,” while former editor Elaine Welteroth called it a “cultural loss”.

Tensions escalated further this week when the Conde Nast Union confronted the HR leader regarding the recent firings, a move that led to the dismissal of even more Conde Nast employees. Notably, the company let go many union leaders.

In 2017, Conde Nast took Teen Vogue and many of its other magazines out of print, resulting in massive layoffs. In 2024, Conde Nast folded Pitchfork into GQ, a major outlet for music journalism, touching on topics like satire, race, and identity. Vogue also recently absorbed Vogue Business into the main Vogue site, tying it into their broader platform.

Looking Ahead

Chloe Malle, the head of editorial content for American Vogue, will now be in charge of Teen Vogue. Chloe has held this position since September, when Anna Wintour stepped down. Teen Vogue will now focus on career development, cultural leadership, and other issues that matter most to young people.

The dissolution of Teen Vogue into Vogue marks a significant shift in the media landscape, one that raises red flags about the future of diverse and progressive journalism for young audiences. With substantial staff layoffs affecting some of the publication’s most diverse voices, there’s an undeniable risk of losing the varied perspectives that make up the content modern girls want to read.

This article What Teen Vogue’s Farewell Means For The Future Of Journalism was originally published on HerAgenda.com

As the year winds down and the holiday season picks up, many of us are preparing to gather with loved ones from near and far. Thanksgiving is often framed as a joyful moment to reconnect, celebrate gratitude, and share good food, but the reality can be more complicated.

Adulthood changes the way we experience the holidays. We bring our own perspectives, values, boundaries, and life circumstances into the room, and that can shift the dynamic in ways we didn’t expect. For some, this time of year can feel overwhelming, anxiety-inducing, or even emotionally triggering. Instead of stepping into easy nostalgia, we’re navigating family patterns, expectations, and the pressure to be “on,” all while trying to maintain our own sense of peace.

Her Agenda has gathered a few tips to help you navigate the emotional ups and downs of Thanksgiving gatherings.

Don’t Over-Do It: Health Is Wealth

Thanksgiving often brings a sense of nostalgia, especially when it comes to beloved family dishes. And while it’s a chance to enjoy the foods that make the holiday feel special, it can also help to approach the day with mindfulness. Paying attention to how certain foods make you feel physically and emotionally can support your overall well-being. So savor the sweet potato pie, appreciate every bite, and trust yourself to enjoy it in a way that feels good to you.

Olivia Fassino of Carolina Meadows says mindful eating is something you can practice all year round, but can be extra helpful to keep in mind during the holidays.

“It’s natural to feel stressed or bored and instantly reach for food when you may not necessarily be hungry,” she said. “The idea of mindful eating is about pausing for a moment to be intentional about why and what you’re eating.”

Family Will Always Be Family

According to the Hope Brain Center, holiday images often create unrealistic expectations that lead to disappointment. Authentic connection matters more than perfection. Furthermore, the Hope Brain Center believes that the best approach focuses on what you can control instead of trying to coordinate the perfect family gathering. Past experiences serve as the best predictors of future events, so they should guide realistic planning.

Overall, walking into Thanksgiving with realistic expectations will benefit you tremendously. Some advice that can help eliminate tension, arguments, and ultimately destroy a good time includes avoiding discussing politics if that triggers someone in your family, not interfering or trying to fix someone’s life and not taking everything personally.

Avoid Emotional Labor By Knowing When To Leave

As with all things in life, there’s a time to come, and a time to go. You have to know when it’s time to leave. Suppressing your true feelings for the benefit of others will be detrimental for your well being. If you feel uncomfortable, overwhelmed, or disgruntled, advocate for yourself and gracefully bow out from the situation.

“We can clearly communicate our boundaries to others,” said Kathryn Matthews of The Nourished Epicurean. “However, keep in mind: we cannot control how other people will respond to our boundaries. There may be nasty pushback, feelings of hurt and resentment or utter disregard for your boundaries—no matter how thoughtfully worded or how clearly you’ve stated your limits. We can only control how we react to the negative behavior of others.”

Kathryn said if boundary violations persist, you can always take your leave. Or, if the boundary offenders are visitors to your home, you can always ask them to leave.

“Setting boundaries can feel uncomfortable, yes,” Kathryn said. “But they also give you the psychological freedom to be true to yourself. And that’s something for which you can be truly grateful.”

This article Thanksgiving Well-Being: How To Navigate Food, Family And Emotional Labor was originally published on HerAgenda.com

Newly-elected New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani is already making a clear statement about governing. The 34-year-old democratic socialist unveiled an entirely women transition team as he prepares to take the helm of the nation’s largest city, a move that signals both his ambition and the kind of leadership he intends to bring to City Hall.

At a news conference shortly after his victory, Zohran introduced four women as co-chairs of his transition effort: Maria Torres‑Springer, Lina Khan, Grace Bonilla and Melanie Hartzog. He also tapped Elana Leopold as executive director of the team. The announcement came as Zohran pledged to solve “old problems with new solutions” and to build an administration that is both capable and compassionate.

A Team Of Women With Experience And Reform Credibility

Maria brings high-level municipal operations experience. She served as first deputy mayor under outgoing Mayor Eric Adams and previously held roles in housing and economic development.

Lina is arguably the most nationally recognized among the group. As chair of the Federal Trade Commission under President Joe Biden, she took an aggressive posture on antitrust enforcement and corporate accountability, especially toward tech giants.

Grace leads the nonprofit sector as president and CEO of United Way of New York City and has previous roles under both Mayors Bill de Blasio and Michael Bloomberg.

Melanie rounds out the co-chairs. She served as deputy mayor for health and human services under Mayor de Blasio and previously directed New York’s budget office.

Elana Leopold, a political strategist and former senior adviser on Mamdani’s campaign, will serve as executive director of the transition team, connecting the campaign to the operational work of forming a city government.

Why This Matters

The all-female team sends a signal. In a city and country where civic leadership is still overwhelmingly male, choosing an entirely women-led transition team positions Zohran’s incoming administration as centering gender equity and diverse leadership at its core. It also serves a practical purpose: assembling a group of experienced players with decades of municipal and federal government experience to support a relatively young and politically nontraditional mayor-elect.

Zohran’s agenda is ambitious: free bus rides, expanded government-funded childcare, accelerated housing development, and other affordability-focused reforms.

Looking Ahead

As Zohran prepares to be sworn in on Jan. 1, the pace is already intense. With the backdrop of possible federal pressure – Donald Trump has threatened to withhold federal funds or deploy the National Guard if he disagrees with the new mayor — this transition becomes more than ceremonial.

This moment offers a powerful story: a young mayor, breaking molds, and intentionally building a women-led leadership team to tackle the most complex municipal government in the country. Whether this cohort can meet the moment remains to be seen, but the signal is unmistakable: change is not only coming, it’s being assembled.

This article Meet NYC Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani’s All-Women Transition Team was originally published on HerAgenda.com

In these times of creating your own lane, it appears that millennials have taken that notion and ran with it. Many things like the economy, job security, and cultural beliefs are uncertain. According to Forbes, the same survey that found that 60% of Millennials left their company in less than three years discovered that the primary indicator of whether Millennials stay at a company is if there is a “good cultural fit.”

Here’s how millennial women are redefining what career success looks like, how they are navigating on their own terms, and why they prefer to set their own expectations and career forwardness.

Why Aren’t Millennials For 9-To-5 Jobs?

“As a generation, we have been taught to question the status quo and I think it is right to look at alternative ways of structuring work that are more conducive to work-life balance and prioritizing things that fulfill you,” said Rebecca Lyons, Founder & CEO at Her Say

“We watched our Boomer parents work their lives away and save ‘living’ for retirement, only to get sick and die as soon as they retired,” said Jessica Bross, Ghostwriter, editor, and book coach at Cider Spoon Stories, LLC.

When Did You Know 9-To-5 Work Wasn’t For You?

“I knew the traditional 9–5 wasn’t for me when my daughter started school and the math of childcare plus rigid hours stopped making sense,” said  Francheska Stone, Podcast Host & Creator of 9 to 5 Mom With A Pod. “Working West Coast hours from New Jersey meant missing family time, and I realized I wanted control over my day and work that aligned with my values, teaching other mom creators.”

Ultimately, jobs only work when they correlate to the person. While a 9-to-5 job may feel more stable for some, a more flexible job may be more accommodating to others. The main key is finding a job that offers a decent work-life balance, so you don’t risk the chance of getting burned out.

Is Entrepreneurship For Everybody?

“I don’t think entrepreneurship is for everybody, and do believe that many people would be better off working a 9-5. A healthy labor market enables people to have options,” said Carli Fink, Workforce and Learning Consultant at Challenge Factory.

“No, it’s not for everyone,” said Iti Malken, Founder of LUMA Rituals. “Entrepreneurship demands resilience, self-motivation and comfort with uncertainty. Some people thrive in structure, and that’s fine. Stability can come from a 9-to-5 job or from owning a business. What matters is alignment with your personality and values.”

How To Ensure Stability As An Entrepreneur

“To ensure stability, I still align myself with 9-5 systems, but as a contractor, so that I can maintain my autonomy,” said Jamie-Lee Denton, founder at The SelfRep Lawyer. “Additionally, I’m always learning, I have an accountant to help me manage my finances, and I regularly assess my progress for weak spots and fix them.” 

“I also accept that stability is a myth. Life is going to life, so I have to create as many rafts and jackets to ensure I stay afloat,” Jamie-Lee said.

“The best piece of advice I have is to start building your business while you still have a job,” said Alexa Starks, founder at Executive Moms. Alexa suggests working on it on the weekends, in the mornings before work or after work, but while you still have income. She believes that starting out as an entrepreneur isn’t guaranteed stability or income, so building savings and a safety net as much as you can will be beneficial.

If you’re a millennial trying to find your way, know that there are options. Whether you decide to work a 9-to-5 job or go the entrepreneurial route, the opportunities are there for the taking.

Remember to make smart and intentional decisions; and consult with a mentor or someone you trust before making major moves.

This article Why Most Millennials Aren’t 9-To-5 Workers was originally published on HerAgenda.com

Growing up, Nourbese Flint, president of All* Above All and All* In Action Fund, was exposed to the reproductive health space by her mother and cousin, who ran a reproductive justice organization.

Since then, Nourbese has been guided by the activists in her family, which has led her from working with Black Women for Wellness to leading Black partnerships with Planned Parenthood, to now leading All* Above All, an abortion-forward reproductive justice organization dedicated to ensuring that all people, regardless of race, income, location, or identity, can make decisions about their reproductive health.

With reproductive justice on the line for all women, Her Agenda spoke with Nourbese about her path into the movement, what she hopes to pass on to the next generation, and how reproductive justice is part of the American Dream.

Her Agenda: Let’s start by telling me more about yourself, who you are, and how you became the president of All* Above All. 

Nourbese Flint: I was born and raised in Los Angeles, California, in a family of activists. In my free time, I was always drawn to reproductive health. My mom runs a reproductive justice organization, as does my cousin. So when I graduated, I found myself working in a field that was near and dear to me: health.

I stayed in the work I grew up in, the work I believe in, and it has guided my path into the reproductive justice space. My journey began at Black Women for Wellness, a reproductive justice organization in Los Angeles. That led me to Planned Parenthood Federation, where I led partnerships with Black organizations and reproductive justice groups. From there, I realized I wanted to return to policy to bold, big-picture work, which brought me to All* Above All.

I’m also the mother of a rambunctious, always-moving four-year-old, and I now live in the D.C.-Maryland-Virginia area.

Her Agenda: Given the intensity of your work and the current moment, what helps you stay grounded?

Nourbese Flint: It’s really the people around me that keep me grounded. Like most people, I have a girlfriend chat where we bounce between politics, dating, food, and then back to politics. It’s always a healthy reminder of why I do this work.

I do it not only because it’s my passion and my heart’s work, but also for my friends, my family, and my community. When I feel tired or things start to feel a little hopeless, I return to community; that’s what grounds me. I also carry a profound sense of responsibility. My role is to run the baton a little further and hand it to the next generation, so they can carry it forward. 

Her Agenda: What advice would you give to people doing this work who might be feeling hopeless? How do you think the community can show up for reproductive rights, especially Black women’s reproductive rights?

Nourbese Flint: For folks wanting to get in and stay in, surrounding yourself with good people, staying true to who you are, and maintaining integrity in your work is critical. That’s what keeps your compass pointed in the right direction.

When it comes to reproductive rights and what the community needs to do, I think we sometimes overcomplicate things. At its core, this work is about healthy relationships and being in community with each other. That means having real conversations with friends, loved ones, and family.

The most powerful thing we can do for reproductive and sexual health, particularly for Black women, is to have those deeper conversations and bring people in, not push them out.

Her Agenda: Where do you see reproductive justice heading, and where would you like to see it go? What’s All* Above All doing right now to help shift the narrative?

Nourbese Flint: We’re really focused on visioning work, which we see as the first step in any strategic plan. The first step for us is mapping out what reproductive justice really means: full autonomy over our bodies and the freedom to decide if, when, where, and with whom to have children. That includes pregnancy care, whether you carry to term or have an abortion, as well as raising a family, having access to childcare, and healthcare that lets people raise their families with dignity. Our work combines policy and culture. We push groundbreaking policies at the state and national level, while also shifting the cultural narrative, helping people see that reproductive healthcare is healthcare.

If we think of healthcare and economic justice as part of the American Dream, reproductive healthcare has to be part of that too.

Her Agenda: What have you learned working in an impact-driven career? How have you navigated the pressure that comes with that?

Nourbese Flint: Yeah, there are a couple of pieces. Integrity is incredibly important. It’s easy to get lost in power struggles, especially working in DC, where it feels significant. It’s crucial to maintain that rebel spirit, to stay authentic, and to remember why you’re here and the value you bring. Finally, finding joy in the work, both for yourself and as something you bring into it. 

Her Agenda: What’s something that you wish you knew about working in the reproductive justice rights field before you started? And how has it helped you? 

Nourbese Flint: I would say one piece I wish I’d known about is parenting. I had my child at 37, and the working world is not set up for parents. You have to be strategic about what you let go of to be the active mom you want to be; it’s an ongoing negotiation and struggle.

This article Nourbese Flint On Why Reproductive Justice Is The American Dream was originally published on HerAgenda.com

Have you ever heard the phrase “cleanliness is next to Godliness?” Well, cleaning can be beneficial in multiple ways. Stress, in particular, can be overwhelming; however, cleaning can be a significant stress reliever.

Cleaning regularly can keep stress down; it is an opportunity to focus on turning dirt and mess into cleanliness. This is also a time to center yourself; some people play music and zone out into their own world.

Cleaning Positively Affects Your Mental Health

Oxford CBT says cleaning is just as beneficial for our mental health as mindfulness related activities. For some people, coming home to a clean and organzed house helps them to unwind after an overwhelming day.

With mental health being an essential element to proper functionality, having a clean space is perfect in regard to coming home to decompress from the day. Some people also thrive from the smell of a clean home, which brings them peace and allows them to relax and feel safe.

Cleaning Can Be A Good Distraction

Distractions are great jewels in life. Having the ability to take time away from stressors gives the brain time to relax and process things. Cleaning is a great distraction, especially when things become overwhelming, anxiety-ridden, and/or stressful.

The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) Stress is an inevitable part of life. Seven out of ten adults in the United States say they experience stress or anxiety daily, and most say it interferes at least moderately with their lives, according to the most recent ADAA survey on stress and anxiety disorders. 

Cleaning May Be Looked At As A Form Of Meditation

Valencia Pro Cleaning Agency says you can meditate while cleaning by following these 4 steps:

1. As cleaning requires attention to detail, you can use this opportunity to concentrate on each movement you make or every sensation you feel.
2. Typically, meditation relies on rhythmic and repetitive movements. Restoring order in your home abounds with these actions, such as sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, wiping, packing, etc. Their rhythmic nature can take you to a meditative state and fill you with tranquility.
3. Scents, tactile sensations, and sounds present around you while scrubbing around your home can help you stay present in the given moment. If you activate all your senses and observe everything around you, you can easily slide into a meditative state.
4. Decluttering your home can be an ideal moment to declutter your mind. It can provide you with a cathartic experience that can liberate your mind from all the burdens you’ve been carrying.

Endorphins Released After Cleaning Benefit Your Health

According to Oxford CBT regular exercise has been proven to reduce stress and reduce anxiety, along with preventing depression. Cleaning will also have these effects on your body and mental health as long as these chores require some physical exertion and they last for at least 30 minutes.

The benefits of cleaning also come with a reward of feeling like you’ve accomplished a huge task. The endorphins along with a clean area are a sure fire way to ensure yourself that stress has no room in your space.

This article How Cleaning Can Keep Stress Down         was originally published on HerAgenda.com

As fall arrives and the risk of seasonal affective disorder increases, so do those negative Debbie Downer thoughts and ideas. As the cold winter months approach it is easier to isolate, and feed into negative thoughts and feelings.

Her Agenda has gathered information from therapists on how to combat those thoughts before they become too intrusive.

What Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Is

“Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a clinically recognized pattern of depression that shows up in a seasonal rhythm,” said Beatriz Victoria Albina, NP, MPH, SEP, Nurse Practitioner, Certified Life Coach, and author of End Emotional Outsourcing. “It’s more than missing summer or wishing for more sunlight. People with SAD experience predictable cycles of low mood that arrive with the change in seasons, most often in fall and winter, though some folks experience it in the summer months.

Furthermore, Beatriz says for many, winter-pattern SAD looks like fatigue, sadness, changes in sleep or appetite, and withdrawing from social life. In the summer version, people might find themselves restless, unable to sleep, losing appetite, or feeling more anxious. What makes this a disorder rather than a seasonal quirk is that it disrupts daily life.

How Does It Present Differently In Different People?

“Each individual may present a bit differently if suffering from SAD but in many cases, people may isolate more, withdraw from social settings, sleep more and lose pleasure in things they normally enjoy and love,” said Jennifer Kelman, JustAnswer Therapist and LCSW .

”These are the very things needed in order to move through this time, but many find it hard to keep up with daily routines,” Jennifer said. “As the leaves begin to fall, days become shorter, and less light is around, people prone to SAD may begin to experience symptoms.”

What Triggers SAD?

Alicia Armstrong, LMFT, Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center Clinical Director of Virtual Intensive Outpatient Program, says SAD, like all major depressive disorders, is the result of a biochemical imbalance. Unlike typical major depression, it’s triggered by seasonal changes that impact our biology:

• Sunlight plays a huge role in well-being. Exposure to sunlight impacts our circadian rhythm and the hormones and neurotransmitters our bodies produce to help keep us functioning optimally.
• Lack of sunlight significantly decreases our Vitamin D levels, and Vitamin D plays a critical role in the creation of serotonin – the neurotransmitter needed in our brains to feel happy. Without enough sunlight, we see an increase in melatonin, which is the hormone that allows us to feel sleepy at night.

Steps To Combat SAD

According to Dr. Sanam Hafeez (she/her), NYC Neuropsychologist, Director of Comprehend the Mind, here are specific steps people can take to combat it SAD:

Increase light exposure – Spend more time outdoors during the day or use a light therapy lamp to make up for the loss of natural sunlight.

Stay physically active – Regular exercise boosts mood, improves sleep, and helps regulate energy levels during the darker months.

Keep a steady routine – Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day helps reset the body’s internal clock.

Seek support and treatment – Talking with a therapist, joining support groups, or using prescribed medication can ease symptoms and prevent them from worsening.

Focus on nutrition – Eating balanced meals with enough protein, fruits, and vegetables can help stabilize mood and energy.

Plan enjoyable activities – Scheduling social events, hobbies, or short trips gives structure and something positive to look forward to.

Limit alcohol and excess caffeine – Both can interfere with sleep and make mood swings or fatigue worse over time.

This article How To Let Go Of Negative Thoughts And Feelings: Preparing For SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) was originally published on HerAgenda.com

“Womanhood is really expensive. Always ask for more,” wrote Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman on the dedication page of her new book, The Double Tax: How Women of Color Are Overcharged and Underpaid.

Throughout her life, Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman has carried the weight of what it means, and how much it costs, to exist as a Black woman in today’s society. Shaped by these early lessons, she has dedicated her career to researching and speaking about the double tax that Black women and women of color bear under an unjust system.

Her Agenda spoke with Anna about what inspired her to write “The Double Tax,” what Black women and women of color can learn from it and how everyone can use its insights to strengthen their communities.

 Her Agenda: Tell me about yourself and how you got into writing “The Double Tax.”

Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman: I’m only 29, but I can trace how I got to this moment. I grew up in an affordable housing neighborhood with a sliding rent scale. I got a full scholarship to a private school, which introduced me to an economic experience I hadn’t known existed. I remember seeing classmates with nice cars and playgrounds in their backyards, while mine was just concrete and dirt, and that made me ask: Why are things so unfair?

When I traveled back to Ghana, where I was born, my family was more well-off than our relatives, and those moments reminded me how unequal the world can be and pushed me to ask: How do we make it more fair?

Growing up, it wasn’t just about talking about how bad things are. It was about problem-solving, finding solutions, and working with our communities to make things better. That’s shaped my worldview and my desire to put ideas out there.

Her Agenda: What was the moment that you knew that this book had to be written? 

Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman: I had an opportunity to give a speech about a concept called Black Women Best. It says the best outcomes for Black women are a better outcome for everyone else. We’re all better off when Black women have a fighting chance and are fully acknowledged as people. I remember giving that speech, and most of the audience agreed. After I got off stage, a white man came up and said, “Good speech, but are you sure that making things better for Black women would actually improve society as a whole?”

What he was asking wasn’t an unfair question; it was about whether he had the same information to reach the conclusions I was making. That was the first spark in me. Maybe we put everything we know about this issue into a book because books are accessible.

Her Agenda: How can Black women and women of color use this book for and in their community? 

Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman: I really love this question because it gets to the heart of what this book is about. Black women already know how to come together, form sisterhood, and show up for one another, but this book is meant to be a toolkit for how we can strategize: locally, nationally, and everywhere in between.

My biggest hope is that Black women read this book in community. I want women to see the data, feel validated, and also feel empowered to say, “This can’t stand.” That’s why at the end of every chapter there’s a section called “Closing the Gap,” filled with both policy solutions and individual actions people can take right away. 

Her Agenda: What do you hope policy makers from all sides take away from this book? 

Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman: I finished this book right before the election and realized it could be either a reaction or a prescription, depending on who reads it. Over time, I see it as both. The book reacts to the current political and economic moment, with over 300,000 Black women “exiting” the labor force, but it is also a prescription for policymakers and voters. It shows how women, especially Black women, are dehumanized, lays out the problem clearly, and offers solutions.

Her Agenda: Could you share what Black women can take from this book to support their own career growth? 

Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman: The first takeaway is transparency about experiences and how you’re valued. Second, recognize the restrictions Black women face in the job market. The double tax in careers isn’t siloed; we face it while climbing the corporate or professional ladder. Building a multigenerational community and support is how we combat it and create real change. Second, recognize the restrictions Black women face in the job market. At the start of the book, I dedicate it to my nieces and tell them, “Womanhood is really expensive. Always ask for more.”

Her Agenda: Is there anything else that I did not cover or that you want to talk about? 

Anna: I think the last thing I’ll say is that platforms like Her Agenda are incredibly important for breaking down barriers around what Black women think they can achieve. I’m so grateful this platform exists. I really wish I had seen it when I was younger.

This book is very much aligned with what Her Agenda represents: seeing that your experiences are what they are, but they can be better; that you can go higher and advance further. It’s liberating, freeing, and instills hope. I’m honored to be on this platform, and I hope my experience inspires someone younger to go further.

This article What You Need To Know About The Double Tax Black Women And Women Of Color Face was originally published on HerAgenda.com

In recent years, there’s been a lot of conversation around how self-care is a way women can recharge. But what if we shifted our attention to how to use focus as a form of self-care?

Dr. Zelana Montminy, a renowned behavioral scientist, dives into this in her new book, Finding Focus: Own Your Attention in an Age of Distraction. She offers women practical tools to reclaim their focus and reimagine self-care not as escapism, but a path to mental clarity.

Her Agenda spoke with Zelana about her book and her perspective on what it really takes to protect our time, energy, and peace in a world full of distractions.

Her Agenda: First, could you share your background and what inspired you to write “Finding Focus: Own Your Attention in an Age of Distraction?”

Dr. Zelana Montminy: I’m a behavioral scientist and clinical psychologist. My work originally focused on happiness research. Over time, I realized that happiness alone isn’t an end goal and often leaves people unfulfilled. That led me to study resilience, which became the subject of my first book.  As I continued working with clients and organizations, I noticed people were burned out, anxious, and constantly task-switching, even those with successful careers and abundant resources.

Through my research and client work, I realized that the root issue wasn’t jobs or circumstances, but our inability to focus. Attention, not time, is our most valuable resource, and it’s being hijacked daily. That realization inspired Finding Focus, a book not about quick productivity hacks, but about reclaiming our attention, living with intention, and strengthening our connection to ourselves and others.

Her Agenda: For those who feel they’ve learned how to manage their time and attention but aren’t sure how to take the next step toward living with greater intention, what advice would you give?

Dr. Zelana Montminy: As women, we often wear multitasking as a badge of honor, but it erodes our ability to thrive. The brain isn’t built to multitask, and it ultimately decreases productivity. One of the most important shifts we can make is letting go of the belief that we must multitask to survive. I also encourage women to rethink balance. Balance suggests everything gets equal weight every day, which isn’t realistic. Rhythm is more humane; some weeks work takes priority, other times it’s kids, relationships, or friendships. Focus comes from choosing your priority.

I also suggest attention budgeting. Like money, attention is finite. Eliminate or batch distractions that feel urgent but don’t serve deeper values.

Her Agenda: What do people get wrong about boundaries?

Dr. Zelana Montminy: I think boundaries have been so overused. People think they’re like walls, that you have to shut people out or shut them down, and that they need to be really harsh. I like to think of boundaries more as bridges; they create the foundational conditions for connection without anger or resentment.

A lot of people confuse boundaries with control. A boundary is not, “You can do this, you can’t do that.” It’s more, “Here’s what I will do if this happens.” It’s about your own behavior, not managing someone else. That subtle shift in understanding what a boundary really is changes everything.

Her Agenda: How can we use focus as a form of self-care?

Dr. Zelana Montminy: We’ve been sold that self-care means adding a spa day or a new routine. Real self-care isn’t about adding, it’s about reclaiming attention so life feels less fractured. It’s protection, guarding your attention by saying no, muting notifications, resting. Its presence and focus let you be in the moment, which is deeply restorative.

Her Agenda: What do you hope women take from this book?

Dr. Zelana Montminy: Permission to come back to themselves and relief from the pressure to do it all. My book shows women that focus is not about adding more. It’s about reclaiming attention as a form of self-trust. Women will walk away with permission to release the myth of balance and protect what actually matters.

This article How To Reclaim Focus As A Form Of Self-Care was originally published on HerAgenda.com

There’s so much shame that comes with not being established at a certain age. Society would lead you to believe you haven’t arrived if you don’t have your own place, your dream career, and a significant other in your thirties. This is not true.

If you still live with your parents as a millennial, there should be no shame involved, because it’s not just you. People don’t advertise it, but in this economy, many people still live with their parent’s, and Her Agenda has gathered why.

Student Loans Won’t Pay Themselves

According to Education Data Initiative, when considering how many people within a generation have student loans, a larger percentage of the Millennial generation has student loan debt than other generations. In fact, 18.5 million millennials have outstanding student loan debt; 39.9% of all borrowers are millennials.

Student loans are the number one cause of people staying with parents; as soon as you graduate, you are expected to begin paying back student loans whether you have a job or not. Though this debt is considered “good debt” it can cause a serious strain on your pockets.

Stagnant Wages Are Equivalent To A Fixed Income

According to The Hill, there is an emerging disconnect among millennials, with 52% engaging in side hustles at work, and 46% not taking on extra work.

As a result, fewer millennials are in the middle class compared to previous generations. By contrast, 70% of baby boomers were middle class in their 20s, but only 60% of millennials achieved the same status, according to an OECD report.

Unaffordable Housing Makes Solo Living Almost Impossible

According to Fortune, the American dream is on life support for first-time homebuyers, new data shows, and the landscape will remain pretty bleak for a while. Young adults are staying with parents to save money or opting to house swap with baby boomer relatives to eke out a start in the housing market.

Additionally, those factors have gatekept the housing market from many first-time home buyers, who are typically younger generations like Gen Z and millennials. In fact, the housing market has become so unaffordable for these buyers, the number of first-time home buyers shrank to a historic low.

Caregiving Responsibilities For A Family Member Means You Have To Stay With Your Senior Parent

As reported by AARP, as of 2020, approximately 24% of caregivers in the United States are millennials. Furthermore, almost three in four millennial family caregivers are employed, and they are more likely than other generations of caregivers to be working. One in three employed millennial family caregivers earns less than $30,000 per year.

Millennials are actively taking on the position of caretaker. This also makes it hard to move out due to this large responsibility. While caretaking is an enormous task, many millennials also work fulltime as well.

A Lack Of A Safety Net Means It’s All On You

Millennials are the poster child for entrepreneurship. With the likes of social media, small businesses, and the arts, millennials aren’t afraid to go against the regular 9 to 5; however, where millennials lack is creating a safety net with insurance.

Liberty Mutual Group says that millennials may be pursuing entrepreneurship, but they take more personal liability risks than any other generation.  According to a recent study conducted by Liberty Mutual Insurance, one of the largest small business insurers, only 12 percent of millennials who own their own business have business insurance, even though they are known for being the biggest worriers when it comes to their small business endeavors given the potential for financial loss.   

In conclusion, millennial small business owners are unaware of what insurance is needed when it comes to their small business, putting them, and in some cases their employees, at risk. Many worry about the financial commitment (35%) compared to Boomers (29%), leading them to skimp on basic protection needed.

This article Dear Millennials Living With Your Parents, You’re Not The Only One was originally published on HerAgenda.com

In an era desperate for sustainability, women-led companies are at the forefront of the fight against food waste, a global issue that results in approximately 1.3 billion tons of discarded food annually, accounting for nearly one-third of all food produced for human consumption.

These innovative enterprises, each helmed by a female CEO, are pioneering diverse strategies to address this crisis.

In the United States alone, food waste results in an economic loss of approximately $161 billion each year, with environmental repercussions such as 170 million metric tons of CO2 emissions. By implementing unique solutions — from technological advancements to community-driven initiatives — these women are redefining waste management and leaving a lasting, positive impact on both the environment and society. Through their efforts, they are not only combating food waste but also inspiring change across industries worldwide, setting a precedent for the integration of sustainable practices in business operations.

Olio

Olio is a food-sharing app where users can log on and share food and other items as a local community, to make buying new things the last option.

Olio was founded by CEO Tessa Clarke, who grew up on a dairy farm in Yorkshire and developed a strong belief in the value of food, learning early on the effort required to produce it.

A pivotal moment during a house move, where surplus food led her to share with neighbors, sparked the concept for Olio, a food-sharing app. Partnering with Saasha Celestial-One, COO, who shared a background in resourcefulness thanks to her Iowa hippy entrepreneur parents, they quickly developed the idea to combat food waste.

The app’s prototype began with 12 neighbors sharing surplus food through a WhatsApp chat, which quickly gained traction. The app expanded, allowing for sharing of not just food but all unused household items, and has grown from a North London neighborhood initiative to a global movement with millions of users. Olio embodies the belief that small individual actions can effect significant change, advocating for optimism and community engagement to counteract waste, all initiated by the simple act of sharing a few leftover groceries.

The Food Recovery Network

The Food Recovery Network was created in 2011 to save food in college campus dining halls and other places where it might get lost and ensure it goes to community members suffering from food insecurity and hunger.

Since its founding, the organization has grown to include over 230 college chapters nationwide, each working tirelessly to divert surplus food to local nonprofits and community organizations. The recovery efforts have transformed millions of pounds of food into millions of nutritious meals for those in need.

The Food Recovery Network has been led by Regina Harmon since 2015. Regina has focused on building strategic partnerships with campus dining services and local food banks to streamline the recovery process and increase the volume of food redistributed. Her leadership has also spearheaded initiatives to engage students in meaningful educational experiences, making them active participants in the fight against food waste and hunger.

Detroit Dirt

Detroit Dirt is a company created by Pashon Murray that collects food scraps from the Detroit area and composts them to sell as organic fertilizer and mulch. Pashon’s father’s maintenance work around many landfills full of unnecessary waste inspired her to create the company.

Her company operates on a closed-loop food system considering food as a circular system. They use manure and leftovers to grow food, allowing the table to sustain the farm as well, rather than viewing it as a linear process from farm to table.

Dispatch Goods

Dispatch Goods is a company created by Lindsey Hoell to remove packaging waste from foods. After witnessing the magnitude of the global waste crisis near the coast and frequently observing trash accumulating along the shorelines, Lindsey created this company.

This women-led and founded company specializes in reverse logistics, offering a platform that seamlessly integrates reuse solutions for businesses. They partner with companies, often caterers or campuses, to provide the reusable packaging for all the food, rather than the clients buying paper or plastic. Then, Dispatch collects and sanitizes it all for reuse when the customers finish.

Fresh Paper

Fresh Paper is a unique product somewhat like a dryer sheet for food. They infuse biodegradable paper with specific herbs to make food last longer, depending on which food and paper you choose.

Invented by the CEO Kavita Shukla, in high school, to help developing nations without things like fridges, this product is now in multiple major retailers like Whole Foods and Wegmans for everyone to preserve their food.

This article Women Leading The Fight Against Food Waste was originally published on HerAgenda.com

Career success is traditionally defined as having a stable, professional job, ideally one that comes with a high salary, status, and accolades. For many women, this means climbing the corporate ladder and acquiring big titles with even bigger responsibilities. 

In today’s evolving landscape, however, many women are stepping away from these ideals and reevaluating what success truly means to them. Rising burnout rates, shifting priorities, and lack of personal fulfillment have prompted countless women to seek careers rooted not in profit but in purpose. 

Leaving corporate roles behind to pursue more meaningful paths requires redefining success beyond what we’ve traditionally been taught, moving away from titles and paychecks, and instead focusing on alignment and impact.

Here are four women who took that leap:

1. Colette Clark: From Law To Murder Mysteries

Colette had always dreamed of being her own boss. While working as a librarian at a law firm, she began writing cozy murder mysteries in her spare time. 

When her book earnings surpassed her salary, and after setting aside two years’ worth of savings as a cushion, she quit her job. Since then, she has self-published 21 novels.

Writing allows her to set her own schedule and create something she’s proud of, something her audience enjoys. 

“The money is not very lofty, I’m afraid,” she said, “but it pays the bills.”

Although there are challenges, like giving up benefits, work friendships, and the security of a steady paycheck, she wouldn’t trade it for the world. 

“There are very stressful moments and days I tire of it, but if I had to do it over, I would do the same thing in a heartbeat,” she said.

2. Roriann Smith: From Training To Educating 

The parts of her tech job that Roriann enjoyed the most were the teaching aspects. She found joy in helping employees understand systems and apps. 

“I liked explaining things, watching people get more confident, and making things easier to understand,” she said. 

Her coworkers noticed, too. When one casually suggested she become a teacher, it only reinforced what she already knew: that she was meant for more impactful work. 

The realization led her to leave her corporate role and become a psychology professor at New York City College of Technology.

“My purpose now is to help people understand themselves and their behavior,” she said.

For those considering a change, Roriann suggested taking stock of the workday and analyzing what parts are most enjoyable. 

“Maybe it’s organizing something, explaining a concept, or brainstorming ideas,” she said.

Then, test the waters.

“Assist with a project, take a course, volunteer, or even just talk to someone in a field you’re curious about,” she said. “You don’t need to have it all figured out. Sometimes, taking one step helps the rest become clearer.”

3. Kristin Breuss: From Market Leadership To Spiritual Leadership

Kristin Breuss built a successful career at Goldman Sachs, one that paid well, allowed flexibility, and gave her purpose. 

After some time, however, all that changed. 

“I felt like I had been climbing a ladder that was leaning against the wrong wall,” she told Business Insider. 

That’s when she decided to resign. She worked with a corporate career coach and, after some soul searching, got ordained as a minister at a Cathedral just down the street from her old office.  

Her new role has taught her the importance of rest, setting boundaries to spend time with her family, and what a higher purpose really looks like. 

4. Nkem Okocha: From Customer Service To Entrepreneurship

Nkem Okocha started her career working in customer service at a bank. However, her true passion was always in entrepreneurship. 

“I knew I wanted to positively impact the lives of other women,” she shared in an interview with Lionesses of Africa. 

Driven by this purpose, she founded Mamamoni, an organization that empowers underserved women through financial inclusion, healthcare, and education. 

Nkem’s mission is personal. As a child, she witnessed her mother’s financial struggles, and while working in the bank, saw many women face similar hardships. 

Her work is both fulfilling and impactful, proving that purpose-driven ventures can create lasting change.

This article Women Who Transitioned From Corporate Life To Purpose‑Driven Work  was originally published on HerAgenda.com

Ever since the first Trump Administration passed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) in 2017, with most of its provisions expiring on December 31, 2025, observers have speculated about what would happen next.

That question was finally answered on July 4, 2025, when President Trump signed the “One Big, Beautiful Bill (OBBB)” into law. His signature legislation makes the 2017 tax cuts permanent, along with several other important provisions.

At 870 pages, the OBBB also contains a long list of additional changes that will affect taxpayers for years to come. Wealth Enhancement has broken down the list into some key highlights.

Here’s what to know about the new tax law.

Estate And Gift Tax Exemptions

The TCJA doubled the lifetime gift and estate tax exemption, meaning that far fewer families would be subject to federal estate taxes. The expiration of the TCJA would have meant that many more people would face federal estate tax liabilities, but the new law has made the higher exemption amounts permanent.

The OBBB increases the lifetime gift and estate tax exemption to $15 million per person ($30 million per married couple) starting in 2026. This will be indexed for inflation annually.

This allows families a more long-term approach to wealth transfers without the uncertainty of potential tax increases from expiring tax provisions. People will have greater flexibility in deciding whether to gift during their lifetime or wait until death for the “step-up” in cost basis on assets.

Tax Cuts Made Permanent

One of the top headlines of the OBBB is the fact that it permanently enacted the tax cuts that were enacted during the previous Trump administration. Federal income tax brackets will remain unchanged at 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, 37%, indexed for inflation. This is a key point for taxpayers across income levels, particularly high-income earners. Without this change, tax brackets were previously scheduled to revert to 2017 levels, adjusted for inflation. This would have resulted in higher taxes for many people.

The OBBB did not adjust the corporate tax rate, which was reduced from 35% to 21% when the TCJA was enacted.

In addition, the TCJA created a new temporary provision called the Qualified Business Income Deduction (QBI). This 20% deduction was designed to help small business owners who were unable to benefit from the reduced corporate tax rate.

Under the OBBB, the 20% QBI deduction for qualified business income (§199A) will remain unchanged and become permanent, along with an extended phaseout range. This will allow more people to qualify for this deduction.

Standard Deduction

The OBBB slightly enhances and permanentizes the increased standard deduction amounts enacted under the TCJA. For 2025, the standard deduction is now $15,750 for individuals and $31,500 for married couples who file jointly.

The law also creates an additional “Senior Bonus Deduction” of $6,000 for taxpayers ages 65+, effective in 2025. This provision is temporary and subject to phaseout, but while in effect, it has the potential to create a significant tax planning opportunity for seniors, whether they are utilizing the standard deduction or itemizing their deductions.

Itemized Deductions

Under the OBBB, the standard deduction will receive a temporary enhancement from TCJA levels in 2025.

For those itemizing their deductions, state and local taxes (or SALT) were capped at $10,000 under the TCJA. This cap in turn created the Pass Through Entity Tax (PTET) loophole, whereby state and local taxes are paid at the entity levels and passed down to shareholders in the form of a deduction that is not subject to the SALT cap.

The OBBB will also increase the SALT cap to $40,000 (subject to phase out) starting in 2025, while keeping the PTET loophole in place.

The SALT cap will likely increase the number of taxpayers taking the itemized deduction, especially in states with higher tax rates, such as New York, New Jersey, and California.

In addition, the TCJA temporarily capped mortgage acquisition debt at $750,000 and temporarily eliminated miscellaneous itemized deductions. These changes were made permanent by the OBBB.

New “Above The Line” Deductions

The new tax law is designed to create benefits for taxpayers who receive tips and overtime pay. It allows deductions for qualified tips and qualified overtime compensation. These measures are temporary and subject to phaseouts and caps.

These changes could provide significant tax savings for service and hourly employees. However, it’s important to note that Social Security and Medicare still apply, so earnings are not entirely tax-free.

There is also a new tax deduction of up to $10,000 for car loan interest on new cars assembled in the United States. This deduction is subject to a cap.

For taxpayers who make charitable cash donations, there will be a deduction available for non-itemizing taxpayers up to $1,000 (single) or $2,000 (married filing jointly) starting in 2026.

Clean Energy Credits

People who are interested in investing in energy efficiency updates for their homes or buying “clean” vehicles need to be aware that green energy tax credits previously scheduled to expire in 2032 will now expire within a year.

Clean vehicle credits will now expire on September 30, 2025, while energy-efficient home improvement credits and residential clean energy credits will expire on December 31, 2025.

Depreciation

The OBBB restores 100% bonus depreciation for property placed in service from January 19, 2025. This is now permanent.

Under Section 179, starting in 2026, the maximum deduction amount will increase to $2.5 million (with a phase-out threshold at $4 million).

Our tax specialists recommend these strategies:

Strategic Timing Of Asset Purchases

• Immediate expensing of qualified property
• Maximize deductions to significantly lower taxable income and tax liability
• Consider combining bonus depreciation and Section 179 for optimized tax benefits

Real Estate Focus: Consider a cost segregation study to help make the most of bonus depreciation by reclassifying assets into eligible categories.

Opportunity Zones

The new tax law includes changes to Opportunity Zone (OZ) investments. These investment opportunities were created as part of the TCJA as a way for investors to invest in underserved communities in exchange for tax benefits.

The new law accelerates the expiration of the current OZs to December 31, 2026 (two years early). It creates a new round of permanent, rolling 10-year designated zones starting in 2027.

This strategy offers a 10% step-up in basis for investments held for at least five years. This increases to 30% for qualified rural OZs.

For investors who are already invested in Qualified Opportunity Zones, any eligible capital gains invested before January 1, 2027, would be subject to the existing law and, as such, subject to gain inclusion on December 31, 2026.

For investors who are considering QOZ investments in the future, these changes and enhancements are a positive sign.

Other Notable Provisions

Trump Accounts: Tax-preferred savings account for children will provide an initial $1,000 federal subsidy per child born 2024-2028.

Health Savings Accounts: The House proposed major changes in its initial bill, but the Senate did not include these in the final version.

Personal Exemptions: These have been suspended permanently.

Alternative Minimum Tax: Increased exemption and phaseout thresholds have been made permanent.

529 Plans: These educational savings accounts have been expanded to include home schooling and post-secondary credentials (including Certified Public Accountant or Certified Financial Planner).

Child Tax cCedit: Slight enhancement ($2,200); this is now permanent.

1099 MISC/NEC Reporting Requirements: Increased threshold to $2,000.

This story was produced by Wealth Enhancement and reviewed and distributed by Stacker. It was written by Wiley H. Stephens for Wealth Enhancement.

This article What You Need To Know About Trump’s “One Big, Beautiful Bill” was originally published on HerAgenda.com

After a decade-long hiatus, MonaLesa Diamond Brackett, 36, returns to pageantry in full modesty with hijab and burkini – making history as one of the few women to represent modest fashion at this level of pageantry. She will compete in the Miss New York USA 2025 pageant this August in honor of her late mother’s legacy.

The former Miss DC America Pageant 2013 4th runner-up began her pageantry journey at the age of 16 with a start seemingly written by fate.

“I have no idea who got me started,” she said. “It is the funniest story. I was ending my junior year… and a girl came up to me.” A fellow student had shared an invitation to compete in Miss New York Teen USA which started her interest in participating in pageants.

She competed for several years, but the pageants came to an abrupt halt in 2016, when her mother was diagnosed with cancer. When she aged out of the Miss USA pageantry system, she went on to start multiple philanthropic businesses through her sorority chapter. But, wanting to compete was still at the forefront of her mind.

“I thought that I could never compete again, but it kept weighing on my heart, and I’m just like, ‘God, why are you torturing me?” she said. “Why do I keep thinking about this if I cannot have this? What’s going on?’ And then, they made an announcement that the age restrictions were removed.”

After her break from pageantry, she was worried people would tell her to “give it a rest.” To her surprise, she was met with support and donations from the communities that she serves.

Honoring Her Mother

Now she’s back to compete, but this time it is in honor of her mother, who worked as a hair salon owner and helped her raise funds for competition fees. MonaLesa’s mother encouraged her to believe in her potential. She passed in 2018 from colon cancer. This led MonaLesa to get tested for Gardner’s Syndrome, a rare condition linked to colon cancer. She describes her mother as someone who cared for others before herself. Although her mother practiced Christianity, MonaLesa believes her caring personality aligned strongly with Islamic values.

“She was such a good Christian that she was Muslim, she just didn’t know it,” she said. 

MonaLesa said she finds peace in her Islamic practice. She studied multiple religions before choosing to convert to Islam at age 32. She was raised in a Christian household, and notes there are minimal differences between religions. However, Islam called to her in a way others did not.

“[Islam] resonated so much more,” she said. “A Muslim is simply someone who submits their will to do God’s will.”

A Different Level Of Confidence

MonaLesa said she relies on her faith as a source of confidence. Therefore, she decided to compete dressed in full modesty, a sign of humility and a reminder of god in Islamic faith. Aside from this, her preparation for the pageant is just like any other participant – eating well and exercise. She has lost 45 pounds since realigning with her health goals, shedding the weight she gained after the passing of her mother. 

“The thing about it is I’m already a pageant girl, so I already have the experience… plus modesty,” she said. “That gives me the greatest advantage because it’s one thing to walk out in a bikini, right? However, it’s a completely different thing to come out fully covered when everyone else is in a bikini. So that’s a whole different level of confidence, to be able to stand alone and be different.”

“They will see my abs in the way I stand, the way I walk, the way I talk… my confidence when I speak,” she said. “When someone is fit, you see it when they walk in the room. I don’t care what they’re wearing, I’m working out to be my best self. Because modesty is not a cover up for a lack of hard work,” she said.

MonaLesa said her modesty gives her a sense of ‘royalty.’ When she last competed, she did not know who she was yet. She says she was not her best self. However, this time, she feels grounded.

“I feel like I needed to become this person for me to win,” she said.

The Miss New York 2025 pageant is held from August 15-17 in Albany, New York. The winner of Miss New York USA will advance to compete at Miss USA 2025 and potentially Miss Universe.

This article MonaLesa Diamond Returns To Pageantry In Full Modesty was originally published on HerAgenda.com

Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett is redefining the role of a leader in American politics, dedicated to empowering women and underrepresented communities while fiercely protecting civil liberties. Her journey began as a passionate public defender and civil rights attorney, where she made it her mission to advocate for the most vulnerable, especially women and children. Now serving Texas’ 30th Congressional District, Jasmine’s commitment to justice and equality drives her every action. During the 87th Texas Legislative Session, she broke records as the sole Black freshman, filing more bills than any other newcomer and securing significant advancements in criminal justice reform. As a founding member of the Texas Progressive Caucus and Texas Caucus on Climate, Energy, and the Environment, she is a steadfast advocate for fairness and the empowerment of women in all arenas.

In Congress, Jasmine Crockett continues to forge paths for women and drive meaningful change. Since January 2023, she has been a beacon of leadership, taking on the role of Vice Ranking Member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, and playing significant roles on the House Judiciary Committee. Her influential position as Communications Task Force Co-Chair for the Democratic Women’s Caucus highlights her dedication to elevating women’s voices and issues in politics. With a B.A. in Business Administration from Rhodes College and a J.D. from the University of Houston, Jasmine combines her legal expertise with a deep commitment to advocacy. 

Her Agenda spoke with Congresswoman Crockett to spotlight her impactful leadership in advocating for women, her path to law, and her commitment to amplifying women’s voices in politics.

Her Agenda: What inspired you to pursue law and politics? 

Jasmine Crockett: What inspired me to pursue law was a professor at my school. Professor Pohlmann, he was the mock trial coach, and he recruited me to do mock trial after seeing me in a musical on campus. But I was a business major who was set on going into accounting at that time. He convinced me to apply to law school after I became an All-American, during the one year that I did a mock trial. And I got a full ride to go to law school. [So] I thought, well, if I don’t like it, I’ll just quit. I just would have lost a year of my life. So that was pretty much how I got there. There were a couple of other incidents, in my opinion, that played a role in getting me to that decision. But yeah, it was more so never planned, at least not planned by me. It was obviously God’s plan. 

As far as politics is concerned, I ended up going into politics because there were a couple of cases that I dealt with that just really frustrated me. The elected prosecutor at that time decided to prosecute a 17-year-old as a felon, and  I ended up getting him on a probation revocation. This was an indigent kid who came from a family where mom was struggling to make ends meet. I couldn’t help but think how, in my mind, this isn’t the intent of the law, and there was nothing fair about this. [In fact], we were actually doing a bigger disservice than not by prosecuting this kid. I got so annoyed and felt as if these prosecutors were just not doing what they needed to do for the people that lived in my town. [So] I decided at the age of 28 to run for district attorney. Ultimately, I won the early vote, lost on election day, and thought, all right, well, I’ve done that now and I’ll never run for office again. It was approximately 10 years later that I ended up running for the state house, again being frustrated with what I was experiencing within the law, and thought it would just be better if I wrote the laws.

Her Agenda: Where do you see yourself in the future of politics? And I know that this has to do with current events, that the president has mentioned you a lot as an adversary.

Jasmine Crockett: Yeah, he’s mental, though, so I don’t know how much stock I would put into the things that the crazy man says. But for whatever reason, he obviously sees me as formidable. I think it is because, traditionally in politics, people have some level of decorum. He doesn’t. He is used to punching people, and nobody punching him back. I probably was one of the first elected [officials] that refused to be bullied or punched. If he’s going to punch me, I’m going to punch him back. I’ve never met him. I don’t know how he feels about me. I don’t really care. What I care about is the harm that he’s bringing to the American people. And when I say the American people, I mean all people. The harm that he’s inflicting, unfortunately, for a lot of his supporters, is going to hit them harder than those of us who don’t support him. Rural America is about to really be in for a rude awakening because of some of the terrible bills that he passed. Because there are so many people in urban America, we will be able to take a little bit more of the impact. We’ll be able to have a softer landing. It’s a lot of Democratic states that generate more revenue than Republican states. They can take a little bit more.

For me, in the future, I ultimately will be wherever God leads me to be. I never thought that I would be in elected office at all. It was definitely a spiritual journey. When I first ran for office, I spoke to my pastor at that time and told him all these things that were happening that made me believe that God was really moving me to run for office. [My pastor] counseled me, ultimately not knowing that His plan was to deliver me to Congress at that moment. I had to run that race so that I could get to where I am now. And a lot of times I give speeches, and one of the themes that I hit sometimes is that there’s always a lesson in the loss. There were so many things that I learned in that first race that I lost that allowed me to be better positioned to win ultimately. And if I had become the district attorney in Texarkana, I can guarantee you I would not be in Congress today. As I get older, I feel like I trust [myself] more and more because nothing about my life has been what I planned it to be, but, truly, when you walk in your purpose, your purpose just overflows. It shines everywhere that you go. I tell people all the time that there’s not anything extraordinary about me in my mind. But because this walk is not one that I put myself on, this journey is not one that I put myself on; it is a special journey. Therefore, my steps are ordered, which is why there is so much “goodness” that has come in such a short amount of time as relates to my service.

Her Agenda: What challenges do you face regularly as a woman in this field or just in Congress? 

Jasmine Crockett: When I walk into a space, I always have to prove myself. I am underestimated. I don’t know how much of that is because I’m Black, or how much of that is because I’m a woman, or the combination. But I can tell you that there is a presumption of competency that I am not cloaked in, and even when I am laying out my credentials, it still seems like there’s a reason to challenge it, whereas some of my counterparts do not face that. That’s one of the biggest challenges. Also, for me, [it is important to be] able to evidence my strength, because there is always this weakness that society tries to associate with women. And it is because women tend to be nurturing and caring, but to be nurturing and caring doesn’t make you weak. That is yet another thing I’ve had to quickly correct the record on. There are a lot of ways that both my friends and foes would describe me. But one of the things that they won’t ever use, friend or foe, is that I’m weak. I think having overcome this perception of me being a wilting flower has probably helped me a little bit, but I still walk into rooms [where] if they don’t know who I am –  and definitely before I established my reputation – where there just wasn’t the same level of respect given.

Her Agenda: What’s your response to diversity being branded as negative nowadays?

Jasmine Crockett: I think it’s cowardice. It’s [similar to what] they did during Jim Crow. When you think about how big of a loser you have to be to say that you’re a white supremacist, and then you put a hood on to cover. It’s like the ‘Keyboard Warriors’ that we’ve got out here who have fake profiles. Say it with your chest. If you truly feel like you are on the right side, then say it with your chest. I don’t hide behind anything. You won’t find me covered up. I proudly say everything that I have to say. It’s more a reflection of their own lack of self-confidence, the fact that they feel threatened consistently just by the existence of someone else who’s different – mind you, someone else who is also created by God. It really just [shows] their lack of self-confidence. And I think that there is a fear that if they end up in the minority, somehow minorities will do what [majorities] have done to minorities since the beginning of time. And I have to say, we used to talk about it all the time as we were picking juries. When I would pick juries, one of the things that I felt like I had a good pulse on [was] whether or not Black people would be forgiving of certain types of things, understanding the Black experience, and understanding how forgiving Black folk are. 

Overall, Black people are church-going, faithful people, and they do have this heart of forgiveness. That’s Black folk. I say the same for the Latino community. We are so faith-driven. We believe in things like love and mercy. I will say that the evil that allowed certain people to enslave other people, I don’t see minorities ever doing that. [After] experiencing discrimination that has disallowed, small, Black, Brown, or Asian businesses from being able to really grow to the level of greatness that they could [have] if they just had a fair shot…you don’t have the desire to take anybody through it. But they are afraid that we will be who they’ve always been to us. And I’ve got news for them: We are truly faithful people, and I just don’t see that happening.  I think that that’s part of the big fear. I think it is why they are so pressed to remove people of color from this country. I think it is why they are rolling back access to small business funds, government contracts, education, they are doing everything that they can to widen that wealth gap. This was the first census that we had in which the white population actually declined. I think that is what stirred everything: seeing the decline. [This is] why they’re forcing people to have babies. I think all these things are because they are afraid that they will become a minority. 

Her Agenda: What’s your message to young women and girls who feel disillusioned with the current state of our country? 

Jasmine Crockett: Well, first of all, let me validate their feelings. They have every right to feel disillusioned, especially if you’re young. Things are supposed to get better and not worse, as you grow, at least in this country. So many parents tell their kids that, I made these sacrifices because I wanted you to have better than I did. And that’s the idea; we should all be standing on the shoulders of those that came before us, whether we’re talking about the political giants, or whether we’re talking about the civil rights giants, or whether we’re talking about our family members that sacrifice so much to make sure that our pathway in life was easier. So if you’re disillusioned, I tell you that you should feel validated because you have every reason to be disillusioned. 

At the same time, that disillusionment should not keep you on the couch; instead, it should be a motivator. It should motivate you to decide that this is [the] fight of your generation. It is the fight for freedom that the greats like Coretta Scott King talked about – the fact that we have to fight for freedom in every single generation. The fight has to be fought and won. This is your fight. This is your call. I don’t think that the octogenarians in the Senate will be around forever to continue to wage this war, but it is up to us, the people, to show our real greatness and that there’s nothing that you can write into policy that is going to write us out or write us off. Instead, we will make the rules. We will decide where our opportunities are going to be, because we still live in a democracy and we have access to education, at least for now. We have access to freedom of speech. We have access to freedom of religion. We still have freedoms in this country, and we will fight tooth and nail to make sure that no one will roll back our freedom in this country. We are the real patriots, and the most patriotic thing that we can do is fight for our constitutional rights as well as all other rights that have been fought for and won and a lot of those fights included bloodshed as well as death. We will honor those that came before us and make sure that we continue that fight.

[Editor’s note: This article has been edited for length and clarity.]

This article A Peek Inside Her Agenda: Jasmine Crockett was originally published on HerAgenda.com

The idea of the four-day workweek is gaining momentum. In The American Psychological Association’s 2024 Work in America survey, 22% of respondents stated their employer already offers one, an increase of 5% from the previous year and 8% from the year before that. Two-thirds of those surveyed believed that during their lifetimes, the four-day workweek will be the norm.

They may be right about that. 

Several countries have already implemented shorter workweeks. In the US, Senator Sanders of Vermont and Representative Takano of California have both introduced bills proposing to reduce the standard workweek from 40 to 32 hours without loss of pay. 

The traditional 40-hour workweek was established by the Fair Labor Standards Act in 1940. Since then, we have undergone major changes in technology, the rise of remote/flexible work, and the prioritization of quality of life. A six-month four-day workweek trial in the UK, the largest to date, which included 2900 employees across 61 companies, resulted in increased employee well-being, work-life balance, and overall satisfaction. 

As such, a four-day workweek simply makes sense! But before you advocate for one, here are some things you should know: 

Know Your Workplace Culture And Industry

Is a four-day work week suitable for your business? For some professions, it may be, for others, it may not. It all depends on how your company functions and what its particular needs are.

First, ask yourself how receptive leadership is to such a model, as it would only be possible with leadership buy-in. Review your current HR policy. Does it support custom scheduling? If it doesn’t, how feasible would it be to make that shift? 

Furthermore, what are your clients’ expectations? If clients require regular support, customer satisfaction may be affected if shorter hours are implemented. 

The most important question, however, is: can the work be done in fewer days? Although a 2021 study in Iceland found that productivity levels either increased or remained the same after the implementation of a four-day workweek, some workforces may struggle, leading to additional costs in overtime and/or hiring additional staff.

Know What Implementation Model May Work Best 

Some work reduction models compress 40 hours into four days (e.g. 10-hour workdays), while others reduce weekly hours while providing full pay and benefits (e.g. 32-hour workweek). 

The latter model is contingent on the 100-80-100 rule, where the expectation is that employees maintain 100% of their productivity while working 80% of the time and getting 100% of their pay. 

Regardless of the model, some businesses may display resistance. As such, be prepared to compromise. Rotating Fridays off or implementing hybrid approaches may be a great solution. It may also be helpful to start with a pilot program to test it out. 

Know The Business Case

The four-day work week has many benefits, particularly for women who tend to be the caregivers in the family. Before and after data for the UK study found that 39% of employees were less stressed and 71% had reduced levels of burnout. Anxiety, fatigue, and sleep issues decreased, while mental and physical health improved. 

A shorter workweek also benefits the environment due to less commuting time. However, when making the case for the four-day workweek, the framing should be around the organization’s vision, mission, and values. Focus on productivity, retention, and costs, not individual needs. 

Luckily, the data supports this as well. The UK study showed that company revenue increased by 1.4% and turnover decreased by 57%. The trial was so successful that 92% of those participating chose to continue the four-day workweek after it was over. 

Know The Gender Dynamics Of Workplace Negotiations

Research shows that women face more pushback when negotiating for flexibility, even when they frame it as a business need. This may lead to women being unfairly seen as less committed when seeking alternative schedules. It’s not something you should let stop you, but something to keep in mind as you tailor your approach. 

The four-day workweek may not be a one-size-fits-all solution, but with strategic planning, it could be a transformative step for many organizations.

This article What Women Should Know Before Advocating For A Four-Day Workweek was originally published on HerAgenda.com

The cost of moving is rising all the time, and even relocations in your existing town will leave a hole in your savings that takes time to fill in again. So, the idea that there are places where newcomers receive cash and other perks simply for choosing to relocate and start a new life there sounds far-fetched, or even outright suspicious. In reality, it’s a trend with real momentum at the moment, and it could be an attractive option if you’re considering a big move and are worried about the financial burden associated with it.

It’s reasonable to wonder why there are towns and cities eager to incentivise movers, and whether there’s a catch that comes with the promised injection of cash. There are, of course, answers to any and all questions you might have about how you can get paid to move, and a number of destinations across the country that have the most appealing relocation incentives at the moment.

Offerpad has created an overview of the ins and outs of why this is happening, where you can get paid to move to, who should consider doing this, and how to get the process started if you decide it’s right for you.

What’s Behind Relocation Incentives?

The short answer is urbanization, but not in the broad sense. Rural populations are shrinking; that’s a fact. What we’re also seeing at the moment is a flow of people from smaller towns and cities to large regional hubs.

People are drawn to places like New York City, Los Angeles, and Houston because of the economic opportunities, lifestyle, and cultural highlights they offer. This leaves their lesser cousins with a conundrum, as a plummeting population becomes self-perpetuating. Fewer people mean less economic clout, less public money to spend on important projects, and less reason for others to stay put, too.

It’s also a problem of flexibility. Over the 20th century, we saw towns and cities that experienced boom periods due to a single industry or even one major employer go into rapid decline when trends changed, technology evolved, or employers either outsourced their workload to other parts of the world or went bust.

As white-collar workers of the 21st century now have the opportunity to work remotely, the appeal of moving to one of a handful of sprawling metropolises is not as strong. This has given smaller towns and cities an economic lifeline to pull them out of their continued decline into irrelevance.

The plan for all these places is simple and roughly the same:

• Provide incentives for educated professionals in high-growth industries like tech to move to the area, whether to work at established businesses or take on fully remote positions
• Benefit from the economic uptick that the presence of said professionals has, both in terms of tax revenues and the real estate market
• Turn the tide on the declining population and eventually reach a stage at which others are drawn to the area without needing to be incentivized

It sounds a little like enforced gentrification, although that’s really not the case. The places with the best relocation programs in 2025 have to offer this route because it’s really the only way to progress towards a future that’s paved with solid prosperity rather than plagued with financial problems. Without them, entire communities would effectively evaporate.

What’s The Catch?

It should now be obvious why towns, cities and even entire states are offering financial incentives for moving, but there are some clauses and sticking points that prevent these opportunities from being ideal for everyone.

Here are a few things that could cause you to think twice:

Eligibility

Not just anyone can get paid to move, and the criteria can be somewhat strict, depending on where you’re thinking of relocating.

First and foremost, you need a job, whether in the form of an existing role that you’ll be performing remotely and that your current employer is happy to handle in this way, or as an offer of employment from a local organization in the place you’re moving to.

Second, if you already live in a town or city that has relocation incentives available, you probably won’t be eligible for them. This is typically only available to out-of-state individuals, so there are no ‘pay to stay’ programs.

Lastly, you need to commit to living in your newly chosen location for a set period before moving again. A 12-month minimum is common, so unless you’re happy with this arrangement, it’s a bad match. It’s not like you’ll be kept there against your will; however, you could be required to pay back some or all of the initial cash incentive if you leave before the allotted minimum time as a resident is reached.

Location

These places wouldn’t be willing to pay people to come to live and work there if they were already vibrant, growing communities. As a result, there will be some drawbacks both in terms of access to facilities and cultural experiences, depending on what you’re used to and what you’re expecting.

That said, these are rarely brand-new schemes either. So you’ll be joining an existing influx of people who are already enjoying the relocation lifestyle. And if retention rates are high enough, entire communities will reap the benefits.

Employment

Given that you need a job, or the offer of a job, to be eligible for relocation incentives, this could be a limiting factor depending on the sector you work in and the trajectory you envision for your career. Even moving for the 12-month minimum could alter this, and on top of that, you might not enjoy either the remote work lifestyle, which is not sufficiently engaging for some, or the experience of the new position you step into locally.

These are the main reasons that such relocation packages tend to favor younger people and are especially attractive to recent graduates. People in their middle years, with families in tow, are rarely in the best position to consider getting paid to move, let alone going through with it.

Where Are The Top Incentive Programs Right Now?

All of the debate around the US cities that pay to move is moot unless you know what’s on the table in terms of cash and other perks. There are plenty of programs out there, but the following are among the most generous:

Tulsa, Oklahoma

The Tulsa Remote program is targeted specifically at remote workers, as the name suggests. Over 3,500 people have already made use of it, and the provision includes both a cash grant of $10,000 and additional support to help you flourish once you’re in place.

Eligibility covers anyone who:

• Is aged 18 and above
• Has the right to work in the US
• Has spent at least 1 year living in a different state prior to submitting an application
• Once approved for the program, can relocate to Tulsa within 1 year

You’ll also need to undergo an interview as part of the application process, and the requirements differ depending on whether you intend to rent or buy a home in the city.

Non-cash perks of the program include:

• 48 months of inclusive membership at a coworking space in the city, so you don’t have to knuckle down
• Networking events hosted each and every month to build your career and make links with others in the program
• Access to a variety of wellness-focused experiences, including gym classes, spas, and even counselling

West Virginia

The entire state of West Virginia is covered by the Ascend WV program, which includes a healthy $12,000 relocation grant that can be spent on anything you wish, whether that’s housing, other relocation costs, or whatever else takes your fancy. This cash is only available as a lump sum if you commit to buying a home in the state; otherwise, it will be paid out in monthly portions.

Eligibility factors include:

• Being at least 18 years old
• Having a remote job with full-time hours that’s also verifiable and provided via an employer that isn’t already based in the state, or being self-employed and providing tax documents or pay stubs to back this up
• Being able to move to West Virginia within 6 months of having your application approved
• Living outside of WV and either being a U.S. citizen, or having approval to live and work in the US in the form of a Green Card

Most notably, Ascend WV is marketed as a relocation program designed for individuals who prefer an outdoor lifestyle over big-city living. It includes 12 months of free access to outdoor activities of all kinds, including:

• Whitewater rafting
• Skiing
• Paddleboarding

And on top of access to coworking spaces at no additional charge, there are also social programs included in this scheme, so making friends should be less of a struggle.

Indiana

Several cities and regions across the state of Indiana offer relocation incentives, with the most prominent being Choose Southern Indiana. This program includes:

• $5,000 cash when you work remotely in one of 5 different counties
• Further employer-based cash incentives for people who are eligible for the Defence Sector Program or the Nursing Program Offer
• The unusual inclusion of a Graduate Retention Program, which provides recent graduates from within Indiana with $5,000 to stay put, rather than head elsewhere looking for work

Topeka, Kansas

The Choose Topeka program sells itself well, thanks in part to its $15,000 cash incentive and its promise of living costs that are 10% lower than the national average, along with the cost of a typical single-family home hovering around the $125,000 mark.

The incentive is an employer match scheme that focuses on housing costs. If you’re renting, it’s up to $10,000; for home buyers, it increases to the full $15,000. That means, unlike Tulsa Remote and Ascend WV, this is not a grant you can use freely.

However, if the employer match route isn’t right for you, there’s a Boomerang offer of $5,000, no-strings-attached, or the same amount for veterans transitioning to civilian life after completing their military career.

Kentucky

A growing number of people are moving to Kentucky from out of state. And while there’s no unified incentive program, you’ll find cities within it that do provide cash and other perks to people who’re willing to relocate.

For instance, the city of Frankfort offers:

• $5,000 in cash
• Free access to local attractions, including the Buffalo Trace distillery and Juniper Hill Golf Course
• Networking events with local dignitaries and business leaders in attendance

Alaska

The state of Alaska doesn’t have a specific relocation program, but it does have the Permanent Fund Dividend. This is a multi-billion-dollar state-owned fund composed of revenues generated from its extensive mineral resources.

Usually seen as a form of basic income, every resident of Alaska who has lived in the state for the entirety of the previous calendar year is eligible to apply for their share each year. In 2024, this totalled $1,702.

So, if you relocate to Alaska and continue to be a resident for at least 12 months, you will be able to take advantage of the Permanent Fund Dividend.

Michigan

For those who are still students or want to take their education further, the Michigander Scholars program is a learning-focused relocation incentive.

It includes between $5,000 and $10,000 in scholarship cash for anyone who completes an internship or takes a full-time job in any of the eligible engineering fields, which include cybersecurity and chemical engineering, among others.

As long as you commit to staying in Michigan for a year and meet the eligibility requirements set out by the specific university that will be handling your studies, it is an attractive option.

Is Getting Paid To Move A Good Idea?

Offerpad has covered the potential drawbacks of these incentive schemes, but what are the reasons to proceed, beyond the benefits of receiving cash and other perks?

You should look into these schemes if:

• You are already an established professional in a business that offers full-time remote work, and you no longer want to live in a big city because of the associated costs or the intensity of the living experience itself.
• You’ve recently graduated from university and you are looking for a place to launch your career, but worry that major urban areas are too expensive, too competitive, and too anonymous.
• You have a family that’s young enough to cope with the upheaval of relocation, and you want to provide your kids with the kind of life that’s on tap in smaller cities and towns, which is effectively impossible to replicate in much more heavily populated places.

What Next?

If you’ve got this far and the prospect of relocating to another state to benefit from a paid incentive as well as a new start feels thrilling, the ball’s in your court.

The next step is to find a relocation program that aligns with your expectations regarding working arrangements and the type of town or city that suits your preferred lifestyle. This story links to individual sites for certain programs where available, but there are also services that amalgamate various programs from different parts of the country for the sake of convenience.

Wrapping Up

Once the call of the small city captures you, it could be one that’s impossible to ignore, in which case the opportunity to get paid to move to one will really stand out.

Factoring in eligibility requirements, including minimum stay expectations, is a must, and there’s no getting around the fact that remote workers and graduates are the target audience for these schemes. However, if that describes your circumstances, then there’s a cavalcade of reasons to at least explore the possibility that relocation incentives are a good fit.

This story was produced by Offerpad and reviewed and distributed by Stacker. It was written by Jason Bulloch for Offerpad.

This article Get Paid To Move: The US Towns And Cities That’ll Pay You To Relocate was originally published on HerAgenda.com

Despite convictions on prostitution counts, Sean Combs’ acquittal on sex trafficking and racketeering sparked outrage — and a painful review of whose trauma is taken seriously.

A raucous scene unfolded outside the New York City courthouse where a jury Wednesday acquitted Sean “Diddy” Combs of the most serious charges — sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy — against him during a six-week trial in which witnesses painted the rap mogul as a monster who preyed on vulnerable women in his orbit and took vengeance on anyone who stood in his way.

Overjoyed that the jury returned a mixed verdict, including convictions on two prostitution counts that carried lighter penalties, supporters of Combs jumped up and down and squirted baby oil at each other outside the U.S. District Court for the Southern District in Lower Manhattan. That emollient was used routinely during the hundreds of “freak-offs” — the extended sexual performances with male escorts — that Combs’ former partner Cassandra “Cassie” Ventura and others said he made them participate in through force, threats and coercion.

Victims Know All Too Well

For many survivors of sexual violence, particularly people of color, both the verdict and the behavior of fans outside the courthouse in hip-hop’s first major #MeToo trial made a mockery of their trauma and underscored what many Black and Brown women who come forward as victims know all too well: The justice system rarely believes them. 

“Here is somebody whose attorneys admit he is violent, where the jury was shown videos and, yet, he was found innocent on the more serious charges regarding trafficking, so this feeling of dejectedness makes perfect sense because, once again, we were not believed,” said Angela Neal-Barnett, a professor in Kent State University’s Department of Psychological Sciences and director of its Program for Research on Anxiety Disorders among African Americans.

The 19th reached out to Black women lawyers, scholars, cultural critics and psychologists about the verdict and the emotions that women of color are experiencing in the wake of it. While some acknowledged that they weren’t surprised Combs avoided conviction on more complicated charges like racketeering, they said they understood why the case’s outcome feels like a blow to survivors. Others disclosed feeling dejected themselves, arguing that the public needs to refine their understanding of consent and interpersonal violence. 

“I was very convinced that the prosecution had reached too far when they charged Diddy with RICO [racketeering conspiracy] because that’s typically something that you would charge for organized crime like a mafia,” said Yodit Tewolde, a criminal defense attorney and former prosecutor. “You have one person here who has been charged. There’s no co-conspirators that have been charged, and so to believe that he had this whole big enterprise in order to commit crimes with multiple people seemed a little bit of a stretch.”

Still, as the trial progressed, Tewolde thought the prosecution presented a compelling case for racketeering but was not surprised when the jury ultimately acquitted him of that charge. She did, however, expect to see him convicted on at least one count of sex trafficking due to a surveillance video showing Combs kicking and dragging Ventura in a Los Angeles hotel hallway in March 2016 — an incident that the singer, who is best known for the 2006 hit “Me & U,” said occurred after she tried to flee a freak-off.

“That video showed not only did he assault Cassie, but he was also dragging her back to wherever she was running from,” Tewolde said. “So, she’s leaving that freak-off, and he pulled her back, and what the prosecution argued in their closing argument is, ‘Listen, we’re not saying that every single encounter that they had with these [sex workers] wasn’t voluntary. We’re saying here are a couple where they weren’t, and if you find that she was coerced on at least one occasion, then that is guilty on sex trafficking.’”

That the jury did not believe Ventura was ever forced into a freak-off shocked Tewolde. She pointed out how Ventura’s mother testified that she wired $20,000 to Diddy to keep him quiet after he threatened to release footage of the freak-offs to the public. “All that evidence, and I just can’t believe that they didn’t find one instance where she was trafficked,” she said.

Tewolde can’t help but to feel for Cassie and a woman identified only as “Jane” who testified that Combs forced her to participate in freak-offs as well. Speaking up about their experiences was “the hardest thing for them to do,” Tewolde said. “Cassie putting all of that out there — oh, my God, it’s going to be in articles and transcripts forever, and to still be rejected, is a lot to endure.”

Areva Martin, a civil rights attorney and legal commentator, said the verdict and the public reaction to it indicates that the public’s awareness of sex trafficking may need to be refined. All too often, people envision a sex-trafficked woman as one who was abducted from her small town and forced to have sex with strangers, Martin said. But sex trafficking doesn’t always look like that.

“This was an 11-year relationship with Cassie and a three-year relationship with Jane,” she said. “So much about this case doesn’t follow conventional norms. I think lawyers can disagree about whether Combs was overcharged or not, but clearly at the end of the day, the jurors had to weigh the facts, had to weigh the credibility of the witnesses, and the prosecution didn’t get conviction on all charges, but the headline coming out of this is Sean Combs is now a two-time felon.”

Society Struggles To Understand

Martin believes there was persuasive evidence that Combs coerced Ventura and Jane into freak-offs but said that society has a hard time grasping that someone in a relationship can be coerced into sexual acts by a partner. 

“I think the nuance of that perhaps was lost on this jury,” Martin said. “I believe there was ample evidence of times when both of these women felt coerced because of physical violence, felt coerced because of the threat of having sex tapes released of them, coerced in the case of Jane, in particular, because of having financial resources withdrawn or withheld, but the jurors ultimately didn’t see that level of coercion.”

As a civil rights lawyer with more than two decades of experience, Martin said that she knows how painful it is for women to come forward about sexual violence. She said it’s commonplace for women to be maligned or vilified for speaking up about such experiences and that is particularly true for women of color.

“Women of color have been marginalized in our criminal justice system and are often made out to be liars, gold diggers and painted with racist and misogynistic stereotypes,” Martin said. “I just hope that victims don’t see this case as a complete loss. Again, there are two felony convictions. It does send a message that the judge has denied him bail. I think that is a pretty good indicator that this judge is not likely to just give him time served and let him go on his merry way.”

She urged survivors to keep fighting and speaking up and for allies to keep supporting them when they do come forward. “But I can completely understand why victims, particularly Black victims of sexual assault and sexual violence, feel deflated by this outcome,” she said.

Asked if the makeup of the jury, which included eight men and four women, influenced the verdict, Martin and Tewolde said that wasn’t immediately clear. But Martin said that misogyny and patriarchy are typically factors in these cases. The fact that the prosecution team was made up exclusively of White women could have also played a role in the jury’s decision, Martin said. 

Tewolde argued that the gender imbalance on the jury may not have affected the outcome, pointing out research revealing that women jurors tend to be harder on other women during trials. This gender bias comes, in part, from the idea that women in situations like Ventura’s have a choice, Neal-Barnett said. 

“Who Among Us Has Not Loved Badly?”

“Who among us has not loved badly?” she asked. But people continue to question why victims remain in abusive relationships. However, if someone is threatening to harm a person’s loved ones or release explicit videos of them, it’s a powerful deterrent to keep them from leaving, Neal-Barnett contends. “It’s complicated, and we don’t like complications,” she said. Instead, people victim-blame by insisting they would never tolerate abuse in their own lives, whether or not they’re privy to all the facts about a victim’s circumstances.

She said the images outside the courthouse of jubilant Diddy fans dousing themselves with baby oil “rub salt into the wounds” that survivors are reliving. She encouraged survivors to avoid social media and self-isolation. Rather, they should find safe spaces where they can express themselves and be heard. Talk to a therapist, contact a support group or dial a helpline. 

“Your feelings are valid because, as women of color, not only does [the verdict] underscore that we are not believed, it makes us feel abandoned again, as if there’s no one there to stand up for us, to protect us,” Neal-Barnett said.

Jamilah Lemieux, a writer, cultural critic and commentator who appeared in the 2019 docuseries “Surviving R. Kelly” about the R&B singer’s sexual misconduct involving underage girls, said that the verdict has left her feeling “demoralized” and “disappointed,” but she hasn’t lost all optimism.  

“I’m still hopeful that Diddy may serve substantial time because he could be sentenced to up to 20 years,” she said. “But I think a lot of us really wanted justice for Cassie, in particular, and for the other women over the years that have reportedly been harmed by Diddy. We wanted to see him seriously punished.”

She struggles with the idea that the jury did not view Combs’ conduct toward Ventura as criminal. As for those individuals who are rejoicing that the Bad Boy Records founder was cleared of the most serious charges against him, Lemieux said some members of the Black community have unhealthy parasocial relationships with celebrity men. 

“There’s an attachment that we have to successful heterosexual Black men, and we project a lot onto them,” she said. “We see their success as our own success, and we become invested in a way where we’re not always able to hold them accountable. This was the case for so many years with R. Kelly that there had to be such a damning amount of evidence and a six-hour miniseries before his victims were taken seriously.”

Lemieux suspects that Combs’ days in the spotlight are now behind him. Hip-hop, she said, was overdue for a reckoning regarding the abuse of women, the history of which she covered last year in Vanity Fair. This trial, she said, should not mark the end of accountability for men in the genre but the beginning of it. And, no matter how he’s sentenced, Combs will not be able to move on from the violence and depravity he’s now associated with because of the trial. 

“He may have escaped the biggest charges, but I do think he’s largely done,” Lemieux said. “I don’t think Diddy rebounds from people seeing him batter Cassie the way he did. That’s a stain on him that he won’t be able to remove. I think the world has largely moved past Diddy.” 

This article originally appeared on The 19th. It was written by Nadra Nittle.

This article ‘We Are Not Believed’: For Black Women, The ‘Diddy’ Verdict Is A Reminder Of Justice Denied was originally published on HerAgenda.com