Black Fatigue: Finding Rest Amidst the Struggle with Mary-Frances Winters
It's really taking the time to rest, taking the time to really be with yourself, recognizing what's going on for you- and that's what I hopefully did in the book, and I'm hearing from people that I did- giving people something to think about, giving them different reference points to guide- you know who you are, who you're becoming, who you want to be, and more permission, perhaps, or giving more courage to be who you are unapologetically, showing up who you are unapologetically and recognizing that when you change to be something else, that that's stress.
Feeling worn out by the relentless grind of racism? You're not alone. In this thought-provoking episode of 'Insideout Conversations', host Lisa Lackey sits down with Mary-Frances Winters, the CEO of The Winters Group and author of 'Black Fatigue: How Racism Erodes the Mind, Body, and Spirit'. Mary-Frances brings her wealth of experience in diversity and inclusion to the table, shedding light on the profound exhaustion Black women face due to systemic racism.
But this isn't just about feeling tired; it's about a soul-deep weariness that affects mental, emotional, and physical health. Mary-Frances shares personal stories of encountering racism in professional spaces and how these experiences motivated her to write 'Black Fatigue'. She stresses the importance of acknowledging our heritage and engaging in candid conversations about race. Throughout their chat, Lisa and Mary-Frances emphasize the need for self-care and self-acceptance as crucial tools for combating this deep-seated fatigue.
The episode also touches on the role of leadership in addressing workplace racism and creating environments where honest discussions can happen. Mary-Frances passionately advocates for Black women to prioritize their own well-being and recognize that taking time to rest is not just a luxury but a necessity. One of the most powerful messages from this episode is the call to be unapologetically yourself and to show up authentically in every aspect of life.
Mary-Frances reminds us that while change is often stressful, it’s vital to carve out moments for rest and self-care during transitions. This conversation is a poignant reminder of the pervasive impact of racism and the importance of proactive steps toward healing and positive change. Whether you're looking for validation, inspiration, or practical advice, this episode offers a compassionate and empowering perspective on dealing with Black fatigue.
Tune in for an engaging discussion that will leave you reflecting on your own experiences and perhaps even starting those tough conversations in your own circles.