Category: Community

The School-to-Prison Pipeline (STPP) is an alarming societal issue that casts a long shadow over the educational and justice systems in the United States. This term illustrates the concerning pathway from schools to incarceration that disproportionately affects students from marginalized communities, particularly Black and Hispanic youth. Various factors intertwine to facilitate this pipeline, ranging from zero-tolerance school policies to systemic racial biases and inadequately resourced educational institutions. By dissecting the School-to-Prison Pipeline’s intricate web, we can better appreciate the dire need for initiatives like the Mama Mavericks course, a beacon of hope in fostering substantial change.

Unveiling the School-to-Prison Pipeline

The STPP isn’t a physical pipeline but a series of policies and practices that push students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, out of schools and into the juvenile and criminal justice systems. Here’s a deeper look into the elements fueling the STPP:

Zero-Tolerance Policies

Initially intended to combat drug abuse and violence in schools, zero-tolerance policies have morphed into a broad brush that paints minor infractions with severe disciplinary actions. These policies often result in suspensions and expulsions for minor misbehaviors, setting the stage for students’ disengagement from school and increasing the likelihood of interaction with the juvenile justice system.

Lack of Adequate Resources

Many schools in low-income communities are under-resourced, lacking access to experienced teachers, extracurricular programs, and counseling services. This inadequacy contributes to a hostile school environment where students are more likely to disengage and fall into the STPP.

Racial Disparities

Systemic racial biases play a significant role in the STPP. Studies reveal that students of color are disproportionately subjected to harsher disciplinary actions compared to their white counterparts, even when exhibiting similar behaviors.

School Resource Officers (SROs)

The presence of law enforcement officers in schools, known as School Resource Officers, often escalates situations that could otherwise be resolved through mediation or counseling. The criminalization of typical adolescent behavior contributes to a negative school climate, propelling students on a trajectory towards incarceration.

The Beacon of Change: Mama Mavericks

Amidst this grim reality, programs like Mama Mavericks arise as a glimmer of hope. Spearheaded by the passionate instructor, Lakischa Smith, Mama Mavericks: Unapologetic Motherhood is a transformative course tailored for mothers, especially of African American heritage, who are ready to embrace their unique power to foster meaningful change in their communities.

Through a blend of self-reflection, skill-building, and community engagement, Mama Mavericks empowers mothers to advocate fiercely for their children’s educational rights, challenging the systemic issues underpinning the STPP. By doing so, they not only contribute to dismantling this harmful pipeline but also pave the way for a more just and inclusive society.

Conclusion

The School-to-Prison Pipeline is a multi-faceted issue that demands collective action. Initiatives like Mama Mavericks provide a robust platform for mothers to engage, learn, and lead the charge towards a more equitable educational landscape, ultimately contributing to the dismantling of the School-to-Prison Pipeline.

References:

1. ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union). (n.d.). What is the School-to-Prison Pipeline? [Web page]. Retrieved from ACLU Website
2. Nellis, A. (2016). The Color of Justice: Racial and Ethnic Disparity in State Prisons. The Sentencing Project.
3. Heitzeg, N. A. (2009). Education Or Incarceration: Zero Tolerance Policies And The School To Prison Pipeline. Forum on Public Policy Online, 2009(2).
4. Advancement Project (Organization), & Harvard Law School. (2005). Education on lockdown: The schoolhouse to jailhouse track.

By delving deeper into the complexities of the School-to-Prison Pipeline and shining a light on the solutions offered through Mama Mavericks, we aim to spark a discourse that will lead to actionable change, carving a brighter future for our children and society at large.

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American parenthood aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.

Hey Mamas,

I hope this message finds you well. I know we’ve been talking a lot about the unique challenges that we as Black mothers face, and the importance of finding a supportive community where we can share our experiences, learn from each other, and grow together. I’ve been doing a bit of research and I think I found some groups that you might be interested in. These organizations offer resources and a safe space for us to navigate motherhood. Check them out:

1. Moms of Color: A platform dedicated to providing resources and support to mothers of color, fostering a community where they can learn, grow, and nurture together and strive to be greater.
2. The Kuponya Group: A virtual healing community that provides a safe space for Black mothers, the Kuponya Project encourages self-care, self-love, and self-expression.
3. Black Maternal Health Alliance: This organization is dedicated to improving Black maternal health outcomes by promoting policy change and providing resources for education and advocacy.
4. Black Women Birthing Justice: This grassroots organization works to improve Black maternal and reproductive justice through community organizing, education, and research.
5. Mocha Moms: This national support group is for stay-at-home mothers of color who are looking to connect with other mothers and find resources for parenting and self-care.
6. Sisters in Loss: This online community provides support and resources for Black women who have experienced infertility, baby loss, and miscarriage.
7. Black Women’s Health Imperative: This organization advocates for policies and programs that improve the health and wellness of Black women and girls. They offer resources for reproductive and maternal health, mental health, and more.
8. Black Mamas Matter Alliance: A national organization that advocates for the health and well-being of Black mothers and families. Their website provides information about policy, advocacy, and resources.
9. National Birth Equity Collaborative: An organization that works to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates among Black women. They provide resources, training, and advocacy.

I hope you find these resources as helpful and empowering as I do. Remember, we’re not alone in this journey, and these groups are here to support us. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them or to me if you need anything. Let’s continue to uplift each other and grow as mothers and sisters. Take care and be well.

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American maternal health aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.

White supremacy is a socio-political ideology that asserts the superiority of the white race over other races, particularly over people of African descent. This ideology has been a prevailing force in shaping the historical and contemporary experiences of African Americans, imprinting a profound impact on family structures, economic opportunities, health, and overall well-being. This article aims to explore the numerous ways white supremacy has affected African American families throughout history and continues to do so today.

Historical Context

The legacy of white supremacy on African American families can be traced back to the era of slavery. This brutal system forcibly disrupted African family units, separating loved ones through the sale of human beings as chattel. The systematic and intentional fracturing of African families was a form of psychological warfare that sought to undermine the strength and resilience of African communities.

Post-slavery, during the Jim Crow era, African American families faced racial segregation, economic disadvantage, and systemic violence. The denial of quality education and opportunities for wealth accumulation prevented many African American families from achieving economic mobility. These racialized economic disadvantages are deeply ingrained, with effects persisting in the form of wealth gaps that continue to this day.

Contemporary Impacts

In the present day, the impacts of white supremacy on African American families are evident across multiple domains.

1. Economic Inequality: Despite the progress made since the civil rights movement, stark racial disparities persist in wealth and income, a direct result of centuries of systemic racism. Discriminatory practices like redlining and the racial wage gap have limited the economic opportunities available to African American families.
2. Criminal Justice System: African Americans are disproportionately represented in the criminal justice system. This overrepresentation, driven by systemic racism and bias, leads to higher rates of incarceration, which disrupts families and has profound long-term impacts on children and communities.
3. Health Disparities: African Americans face significant disparities in health outcomes. The stress of living in a racially biased society, along with disparities in access to quality healthcare, contribute to higher rates of chronic diseases and lower life expectancies.
4. Education: Racial disparities in educational opportunities and outcomes persist, due largely to systemic racism. This includes underfunded schools in predominantly African American neighborhoods and the school-to-prison pipeline, which disproportionately affects African American students.

Conclusion

The legacy of white supremacy continues to cast a long shadow over African American families, manifesting in economic inequality, disparities in the criminal justice system, health disparities, and unequal access to quality education. While progress has been made, acknowledging and addressing the deep-seated roots of systemic racism is crucial for creating a society that offers equal opportunities to all its members, regardless of their racial or ethnic background.

Moving forward, it is essential to continue confronting and dismantling systemic racism and white supremacy at all levels of society, from individual attitudes and behaviors to institutional policies and practices. By doing so, we can begin to rectify the historical injustices inflicted upon African American families and work toward a future characterized by genuine equality and justice.

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American maternal health aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.

Motherhood is a journey that is shaped by cultural traditions and practices that have been passed down through generations. For women of color, motherhood is not just about raising children but also about honoring and celebrating the cultural traditions of their ancestors. In this article, we will explore the importance of honoring cultural traditions in motherhood and how it can help create a sense of connection and belonging for both mothers and their children.

For many women of color, cultural traditions and practices are an integral part of their identity and upbringing. These traditions and practices are often passed down from generation to generation, and they serve as a way to connect with one’s ancestors and cultural heritage. From food to music, clothing to language, these traditions are an important part of motherhood and can help create a sense of community and belonging.

One of the most important cultural traditions in motherhood is the practice of honoring one’s ancestors. In many cultures, ancestors are seen as a source of wisdom, guidance, and protection. By honoring and remembering our ancestors, we can connect with our cultural heritage and pass down their wisdom and traditions to our children.

Honoring our ancestors can take many forms, from setting up an altar in our homes to participating in cultural celebrations and rituals. An altar, also known as a shrine, is a sacred space where one can honor and connect with their ancestors. It can be a simple arrangement of candles, photos, and offerings, or it can be a more elaborate display that includes sacred objects and symbols.

Participating in cultural celebrations and rituals is another way to honor our ancestors. These celebrations and rituals are often tied to significant events in our cultural history, such as harvest festivals, religious holidays, and cultural ceremonies. By participating in these events, we can connect with our cultural heritage and pass down the traditions to our children.

In addition to honoring our ancestors, cultural traditions can also play a role in daily motherhood practices. For example, many cultures have specific practices around prenatal care and childbirth. In some African cultures, pregnant women are encouraged to eat certain foods and avoid others, while in many Asian cultures, the mother’s diet is carefully monitored and adjusted during pregnancy. These practices not only help ensure the health of the mother and baby but also connect them to their cultural heritage.

Cultural traditions can also play a role in raising children. Many cultures have specific practices around child-rearing, such as communal child-rearing or storytelling. These practices are often based on the wisdom and experience of past generations and can help create a sense of community and belonging for both parents and children.

Incorporating cultural traditions into motherhood practices can also help children develop a strong sense of identity and connection to their cultural heritage. By passing down cultural traditions, children can learn about their ancestors, their culture, and their history. This can help create a sense of pride and belonging that can have a positive impact on their self-esteem and well-being.

In conclusion, honoring cultural traditions in motherhood is an important way to connect with one’s ancestors, cultural heritage, and community. From setting up an altar to participating in cultural celebrations and rituals, there are many ways to incorporate cultural traditions into daily motherhood practices. By passing down these traditions, we can help our children develop a strong sense of identity and connection to their cultural heritage. Motherhood is not just about raising children; it is also about celebrating and honoring the cultural traditions of our ancestors.

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American maternal health aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.

Sisterhood is a powerful force, especially for mothers of color who often face unique challenges and obstacles in their lives. Building a strong community of support is crucial for the well-being and success of mothers of color and their families. In this article, we will explore the power of sisterhood and how it can help mothers of color build strong communities.

First and foremost, sisterhood provides a sense of belonging and support. When mothers of color connect with other women who share similar experiences and struggles, they feel validated and seen. They know that they are not alone in their journey, and that there are others who understand and can relate to their challenges. This sense of belonging can provide a source of comfort and strength, helping mothers of color to face their challenges with renewed determination and resilience.

Sisterhood also provides a space for sharing knowledge and resources. Mothers of color often face systemic barriers that can make it difficult to access resources and support. But when women come together in a community of sisterhood, they can share their knowledge, expertise, and resources, creating a network of support that benefits everyone. This can range from sharing tips on navigating the school system to providing career advice or simply sharing recipes for healthy meals.

Furthermore, sisterhood can provide opportunities for personal and professional growth. When women connect and collaborate, they can create new opportunities for themselves and others. For example, a group of mothers of color might start a business together, or create a mentorship program to help younger women navigate their careers. By working together, women can uplift and empower each other to achieve their goals and dreams.

Another important aspect of sisterhood is the opportunity to heal and grow. Many mothers of color face trauma and discrimination in their lives, and these experiences can have a profound impact on their well-being. By coming together in a community of sisterhood, women can share their stories and support each other in healing and growing from their experiences. This can include everything from therapy referrals to wellness workshops to simply creating a safe space for sharing and listening.

So how can mothers of color build strong communities of sisterhood? The first step is to seek out other women who share similar experiences and struggles. This can be done through online groups, social media, or local organizations and events. The key is to find a space where women can connect and share in a safe and supportive environment.

Once a community of sisterhood is established, it is important to prioritize communication and collaboration. This means creating regular opportunities for women to connect and share, whether it be through group meetings, online forums, or social events. It also means being open to sharing knowledge, resources, and expertise, and being willing to collaborate on projects and initiatives.

In addition, it is important to prioritize self-care and wellness within the community. This means creating spaces and opportunities for women to prioritize their own well-being, whether it be through wellness workshops, meditation groups, or simply taking a day off to rest and recharge.

Finally, it is important to recognize that building a community of sisterhood is an ongoing process that requires patience, dedication, and commitment. Women may face challenges and setbacks along the way, but by staying connected and supporting each other, they can create a powerful force for positive change in their lives and communities.

In conclusion, sisterhood is a powerful force for mothers of color. By building strong communities of support, women can find a sense of belonging, share knowledge and resources, create opportunities for growth, and heal from trauma and discrimination. To build a strong community of sisterhood, it is important to prioritize communication, collaboration, self-care, and ongoing commitment. By doing so, mothers of color can create a brighter future for themselves, their families, and their communities.

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American maternal health aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.

For many Black women, the concept of “other mothers” is a vital part of their experience of motherhood. Coined by scholar Patricia Hill Collins, the term refers to women who parent children who are not their own. But for writer and thinker bell hooks, the concept of “other mothers” goes beyond just a description of a role. It is a way of understanding the importance of community and the power of women’s relationships.

In hooks’ view, “other mothers” are not just women who happen to be involved in the lives of children. They are women who offer support, guidance, and care to those around them. They are women who are invested in the well-being of their communities and who recognize that the health of the community depends on the health of its members.

For hooks, the concept of “other mothers” is rooted in a deep understanding of the importance of relationships. She writes, “In my life, other mothers have been those women who have been my guides, my models, my teachers, my friends. They have shown me the importance of love, of care, of community.”

Hooks’ own experience of motherhood was shaped by the presence of “other mothers” in her life. As a young mother, she was supported and guided by a community of women who saw her as one of their own. These women offered not just practical support, but emotional and spiritual support as well. They recognized the challenges that hooks faced as a young mother and offered encouragement and guidance when she needed it most.

Through her work, hooks has emphasized the importance of community and relationships in the lives of Black women. She has argued that the health of the community depends on the health of its members, and that women play a vital role in creating and sustaining healthy communities. “Other mothers” are a key part of this equation, offering care and support to those around them.

But the concept of “other mothers” is not just about motherhood. It is about the importance of relationships in all areas of life. As hooks writes, “We all need other mothers in our lives. We need people who will care for us, support us, and guide us. We need people who will challenge us to be our best selves and who will hold us accountable when we fall short.”

In a society that often values individualism and self-sufficiency, the concept of “other mothers” offers a powerful alternative. It reminds us of the importance of community and relationships, and of the ways in which we all rely on each other for support and care. It challenges us to be more than just individuals, but to be members of a larger community.

For Black women, the concept of “other mothers” is particularly important. In a society that has historically devalued and marginalized Black women, the presence of other women who offer care and support can be transformative. These relationships can provide a sense of belonging and connection that is essential for mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

But the concept of “other mothers” is not limited to Black women. It is a concept that can be embraced by all people who recognize the importance of community and relationships. Whether we are mothers or not, we all need people in our lives who will offer care and support, who will challenge us to be our best selves, and who will hold us accountable when we fall short.

In the end, the concept of “other mothers” is a reminder of the power of relationships and the importance of community. It challenges us to move beyond individualism and self-sufficiency and to recognize the ways in which we all rely on each other for support and care. It reminds us that we are not alone, and that we all have a role to play in creating and sustaining healthy communities

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American maternal health aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.