A Powerful End to Women’s History Month
Clark Atlanta University (CAU) is closing out Women’s History Month with a bold statement. The Georgia-based HBCU is hosting its second annual Black Women and Public Policy in the South Symposium. This event, running from March 24 to 26, brings together policymakers, advocates, and scholars to discuss issues that shape the lives of Black women.
Sponsored by the W.E.B. Du Bois Southern Center for Studies in Public Policy, the symposium is more than just discussions. It’s a call to action, urging attendees to examine policies that impact Black women and create strategies for progress. Dr. Nykia Greene-Young, the center’s Domestic Policy Coordinator, and Executive Director Dr. Joseph Jones kicked off the event with powerful opening remarks.
Addressing Policy and Mental Health
The symposium’s theme, “When and Where We Enter…Black Women Are In Power,” sets the tone for a deep dive into key topics. One major focus is Black women’s mental health, a pressing issue that requires urgent attention. Morehouse School of Medicine’s Pilar Jackson led a session titled “The Balancing Act,” which explored how Black women navigate mental wellness across generations.
Discussions covered workplace stress, societal expectations, and the unique challenges Black women face in different fields. The goal is to promote policies that support mental well-being while breaking down stigmas around seeking help.
Black Women in the Workforce: Breaking Barriers
Another highlight of the symposium is a roundtable discussion on Black women’s labor force participation. The session, “When and Where We Work & Thrive: Black Women in Labor,” examined workplace policies and economic challenges.
Speakers emphasized the need for fair wages, leadership representation, and supportive workplace environments. Attendees also discussed ways to monitor policies that impact Black women’s careers and ensure long-term progress in different industries.
Grassroots Leadership and Political Representation
Leadership is a recurring theme throughout the symposium. Sessions focused on how Black women have historically led grassroots movements and continue to push for inclusive political representation. Experts shared insights on mobilizing communities, advocating for policy change, and creating spaces where Black women’s voices are heard.
The discussion also tackled voter engagement and policy-making, stressing the importance of Black women’s influence in shaping laws that affect their communities. By learning from past movements, attendees are encouraged to step into leadership roles and drive meaningful change.
Art as a Tool for Advocacy and Celebration
Beyond policy discussions, the symposium integrates art as a form of empowerment. Collaborations with Sister Song and other organizations bring performances that blend activism with creativity. Spoken word, dance, and music performances offer a holistic approach to addressing social issues.
These artistic expressions celebrate Black women’s resilience while reinforcing the need for continued advocacy. The mix of policy and performance ensures that attendees leave not only informed but also inspired.
A Future Shaped by Black Women
The symposium will conclude with the Advancing Black Strategist Institute’s Black Worker Research and Strategy Presentation, followed by the ABSI Movement showcase. These final sessions highlight the need for ongoing efforts to push policies that benefit Black women.
Clark Atlanta University’s initiative underscores the power of collective action. By bringing together experts, students, and community leaders, the symposium ensures that Black women remain at the forefront of policy-making and social change.
