As a former educator turned full-time mom, I’ve transitioned from teaching literature to engaging in imaginative play and school volunteering. My journey as a Black woman, hailing from Trinidad and Tobago and later becoming a U.S. citizen, shapes my experiences and perspectives.
Faith is central to my life, as I was raised in the church. Despite my critiques of organized religion, I instill spiritual values in my children, emphasizing the importance of both faith and justice—a challenge many faith communities face today.
Politically, I lean progressive. I support a woman’s right to choose and believe strongly in comprehensive immigration reform, particularly for Dreamers, who inspire me with their pursuit of the American dream. I also advocate for the elimination of student loan debt—a goal I believe is achievable.
Living in the deep South, a region often viewed as “red,” I’ve witnessed how local leaders attempt to roll back voter rights, impacting Black and brown communities. Amidst this backdrop, the pandemic has intensified my feelings of isolation. Since March 2020, my children have been home, and we’ve not dined inside a restaurant or traveled beyond our state borders. The longing for connection has never been more acute.
Transitioning from a classroom full of students to managing the needs of my son and daughter has been overwhelming, especially when I struggle to find other moms who share my experiences. It’s disheartening to feel like an anomaly in both online communities and at local parks. The silence from many stay-at-home mothers regarding racial justice issues has left me questioning: do they care? Are they afraid to speak out?
Raising my Black children during this critical time has posed its own challenges. I want them to thrive and feel seen, yet I grapple with how much they should understand about the world’s injustices. My commitment to dismantling systemic racism often feels isolating. The weight of supporting my son’s virtual education while navigating my daughter’s emotional needs is heavy.
Yet, the calls for social justice and anti-racist education are too loud to ignore. Mothers, whether working or staying at home, are pivotal in this fight for a better world. By extending our circles, listening to one another, and validating diverse experiences, we can create a stronger community.
Motherhood can often feel isolating, especially during a pandemic, but I believe there are more mothers like me out there. Together, we can navigate these challenges and support one another, even from a distance. We need each other. I need you. If you’re looking for more insights, check out this blog post that delves deeper into other motherhood experiences. Additionally, Make a Mom is a fantastic resource for those exploring home insemination. For further information on pregnancy and related topics, Healthline offers excellent resources here.
Summary:
The article reflects on the struggles of a Black stay-at-home mom during the pandemic, highlighting feelings of isolation and the difficulty of finding community among other mothers. It discusses the importance of faith, political beliefs, and raising children in a socially conscious environment. The author emphasizes the need for solidarity among mothers and encourages outreach and support.