Black women and girls are everything. Despite the challenges we face from school systems that criminalize our girls’ behavior, police departments that view us as a threat, and cities that continue to price us out of neighborhoods we’ve grown to love, Black women and girls continue to survive–and thrive.
Some call our resilience magical, others just know making a way, while helping other sisters do the same, is embedded in our genes. However you label it, this sublime quality was on full display earlier this week when one Detroit mom allowed her 12-year-old daughter a little independence.
Wednesday, Whitney Walker, an educator at the James and Grace Lee Boggs School, shared a serious #BlackGirlMagic moment on social media. After her daughter, Zoë, asked for a little more independence, Walker allowed her a simple, yet important pleasure, making a purchase on her own.
Walker detailed the experience on her Facebook page:
“I sent my Baby to the window to buy ice cream on her own while I kept watch from the car directly across from where she was standing. Some guys came up next to her, greeted her politely, and stood patiently. One began engaging her in light conversation. I saw in her body language that she was getting nervous so I started to get out of the car to stand with her when this super fly Sista with a fade, sundress, and dragon wing backpiece came out of nowhere and said, ‘Heeeeeey, Little Sis. It’s a good day for ice cream, huh?’ then stood between her and the guy.
All of Zoë’s tension melted away. Supa Sista stayed with her until she got her cone and walked her back to my car where she winked at me before saying, ‘She did fine, Mama. We’re all watching.’ She motioned over to her own car and there were four Sistas outside of it, all grinning and giving me the thumbs up.
I think that says a lot about how angels work. How the village works. How Black Women work.
We out here. Holy and fabulous and ready to ride out at any time, even at the ice cream shop.”
Walker’s amazing story touched many, particularly Black women, who could relate to her tale. So far it’s been shared nearly 7,000 times. The whole thing has been overwhelming for the Michigan mom, who’s also a poet and writer.
“Yesterday was one of those baby step moments that turned into something magical. I’m pretty shocked that the post received so much attention and was shared/liked so many times, but I’m hoping that it empowers other women to be like Super Sister and keep watch over our babies,” Walker told EBONY.com.
Walker also has some “super sisters” watching over her, too. As gentrification continues to force many out of their neighborhoods, Walker has found it difficult to afford her home. Thankfully, a friend sprung into action and organized a fundraiser on her behalf. It’s yet another example of the magic she hopes will continue to circulate in our community, especially when it comes to our children.
“We (humanity in general), turn away too often. Knowing that it wasn’t just me out there ready to be all tooth and claw for my kid…that’s a mighty powerful feeling.”
We totally agree.
Britni Danielle is a Los Angeles based writer and editor. Catch her tweeting @BritniDWrites
