Encyclopedia Womannica

Taking Action & Maya Angelou

Episode Summary

We are pressing pause on our regularly scheduled programming. We were planning to continue featuring women from season 1 from throughout time and around the world. Instead, we are going to focus in and amplify the stories of African American women who changed the course of history. Today, we talk about Maya Angelou (1928-2014), American poet, singer, memoirist, and Civil Rights activist.

Episode Notes

To keep up the momentum and accelerate change, we need to take action on a recurring basis, not just when it's at the top of our social media feeds or trending. So what can we do: 

• Act with your wallet. When our government does not take sufficient action to protect our most marginalized communities, we have to take bold action. And this means, for those who are able, making regular recurring donations. Just as you pay for other monthly subscription services, add nonprofits to your list. Here are a few organizations to consider giving to (also linked in episode notes): Color of Change, MediaJustice, Fair Fight You could also consider giving to a local political candidate you believe in.
• Support your local community. Find an organization in your area working on bail relief, police reform and other causes centered on the Black community. Support Black businesses in your area. 
• Register to vote and fill out the census. You don’t have to spend money to have an impact. As Representative John Lewis says, Voting is “the most powerful non-violent tool we have in a democratic society, and we must use it.” 
• Listen, share, and speak up. Whether this means emailing your family, texting your friends or posting on social media, make a statement of support and lift up the voices of those who are on the front lines of this fight. 
• Last, but certainly not least, we have to educate ourselves and our communities. Find moments to hold yourself and your community accountable. Learn from your mistakes. Call out your friends and family. And support your Black friends and community.