Fawn Walker-Montgomery: Transition away from the ‘pep rally phase’

The last two months have been filled with trauma, continued police violence against Black women and a history-making event. Specifically, Vice President Kamala Harris became the first Black and Asian American woman to accept a major party’s nomination for president. In my previous column in July 2024, I mentioned how, as a Black woman, this was a circus of emotions for me. I was sad, angry, disappointed and hopeful. In the beginning it can seem exciting. However, it’s crucial that we transition away from the pep rally phase. Avoid romanticizing representation in politics and be mindful of the potential pitfalls that may arise from internalizing White supremacy. This is especially true for Black people in the present moment. A time filled with continued examples of injustice, racism, promises of representation and ongoing genocides. The trauma from this can cause some Black people to quickly align with the oppressors, practice hyper-individualism and internalize White supremacy. Similar behavior has been happening for centuries and has led to common sayings such as, “don’t argue with people ancestor Harriett would of shot” or “all skin folk ain’t kinfolk.” I see this happening now with the loyalty to a two-party system that has continuously failed...