Unprotected and Undervalued: The Fight to Protect Black Women

Sis, let’s be honest: the world has never made space for Black women to truly be safe. From the moment we enter this world, we are told to be strong, resilient, and unbreakable. But where has that strength gotten us when it comes to protection, justice, and safety?

The truth is, there has never been a moment in history where the fight was truly about protecting us. Not in the courts, not in the streets, not even in the systems meant to serve justice. And the constant mistreatment and abuse of Black women is a testament to that neglect.

Let’s dig deeper into this, because it’s time to ask the hard questions—and it’s time to demand change.

The Violence Black Women Face

Black women are among the most vulnerable to violence, yet our stories are often ignored, dismissed, or forgotten.

Domestic Violence: Black women experience intimate partner violence at disproportionately high rates. And when we do speak up, we’re often met with doubt or judgment instead of support.

Sexual Assault: Our pain is often minimized. We’re told to “move on,” or worse, we’re blamed for what happened to us.

Police Violence: Black women face police brutality too, but our names rarely make the headlines. We’re fighting the same systems of oppression, yet our stories are often an afterthought.

Missing Women: Thousands of Black women and girls go missing every year, and their cases barely get media coverage. Families are left to investigate on their own because the system simply doesn’t care enough to look for us.

This isn’t just neglect—it’s systemic violence.

Why Are We Ignored?

So why does the world turn a blind eye to Black women’s suffering?

1. Stereotypes

Society loves to paint Black women as strong, angry, and invulnerable. These stereotypes dehumanize us, making it easier for people to ignore our pain.

2. Historical Neglect

From slavery to segregation to modern-day discrimination, Black women have been at the bottom of the social hierarchy. We’ve been conditioned to believe that our safety doesn’t matter—and so has everyone else.

3. Systemic Racism

The justice system was never designed to serve us. Our cries for help are met with indifference, and our cases are pushed to the bottom of the pile.

4. Patriarchy

Violence against women is often dismissed as a “private matter” instead of being treated as the societal crisis it is. And when race is added to the equation, the level of disregard multiplies.

The result? A society where Black women are left to fend for ourselves, even in the face of unimaginable harm.

The Cost of Neglect

The constant mistreatment of Black women doesn’t just harm us—it harms everyone.

The Harmed: We carry the weight of trauma while the world expects us to keep moving forward as if nothing happened.

The Perpetrators: Without accountability, those who harm us are free to harm again.

The Community: When Black women are unprotected, the ripple effects touch every part of society. We are the backbone of our families and communities, yet our safety is treated as expendable.

This isn’t just about individual cases—it’s about a systemic failure that leaves all of us worse off.

The Need for Change

Sis, the fight to protect Black women is long overdue. We can’t wait for the world to decide we’re worthy of protection—we have to demand it.

Here’s what needs to happen:

1. Center Black Women’s Voices

Our stories matter. Our experiences matter. It’s time to amplify them and refuse to be silenced.

2. Demand Accountability

From law enforcement to the judicial system, we must hold institutions accountable for their neglect of Black women.

3. Invest in Healing

We need resources that focus on healing Black women—mentally, emotionally, and physically.

4. Build Community Support

When the system fails, we have to support each other. That means creating spaces where Black women can feel safe, heard, and empowered.

Writing Exercise: Reflecting on Protection and Support

If you’re ready to engage in this fight, start by reflecting on these questions:

1. What Does Protection Look Like?

Write about what it would mean to feel fully protected as a Black woman.

2. How Have You Experienced Neglect?

Reflect on a time when you felt unprotected or unheard. How did it impact you?

3. What Role Can You Play?

Think about how you can support the safety and well-being of Black women in your community.

4. Who Are the Protectors in Your Life?

Identify the people or spaces that make you feel safe. How can you expand that network for others?

5. Affirm Your Worth

Write this affirmation: I am worthy of protection, respect, and love. My safety and my voice matter.

Supporting the VRN

If this resonates with you, I urge you to support the Victim Retribution Network (VRN).

The VRN is dedicated to uplifting and empowering Black women and girls who have been harmed. We’re fighting for a world where our stories are heard, our safety is prioritized, and justice is truly served.

You can help by:

• Donating: Every contribution supports our mission to protect and advocate for Black women.
• Volunteering: Join us in building a network of support and resources.
• Spreading the Word: Share our mission and encourage others to join the fight.

Together, we can create a world where Black women are valued, protected, and celebrated. Learn more and get involved at [insert link or details here].

Final Thoughts

Sis, the fight for Black women’s safety isn’t just our fight—it’s everyone’s fight. It’s about creating a society where no one is left behind, where no harm goes unanswered, and where every voice matters.

Let’s keep pushing. Let’s keep speaking. And let’s build a future where Black women don’t just survive—we thrive.

With love and fire,

Coach E ❤️