Joy Reid and Other Black Women Step Back From Political Advocacy
Joy Reid, the MSNBC host, recently made waves with a video posted on TikTok, expressing frustration and disappointment about the lack of support from white progressive women, especially after the recent elections. Her message was clear: Black women, who have long been at the forefront of political and social justice movements, are now on hiatus from saving the political landscape.
In the video, Reid alluded to the protests led by white women, particularly the 2017 Women’s March where participants donned pink “pussy hats” as a protest against Donald Trump’s 2016 election victory. Despite this activism, Reid pointed out that 53% of white women voted for Trump in the 2024 election, highlighting the disconnection between their actions and their political choices.
Reid’s message, echoing the sentiments of many Black women, was straightforward: “Don’t send any [protest] invites to Black women.” She stated that Black women are now focused on advocating for Black communities, businesses, and men. The fight to “save America” or even the Democratic Party, Reid implied, was no longer their responsibility.
This shift in priorities comes after what many saw as a crucial election for preserving democracy, with key issues like abortion rights, public education, and social security motivating Black women to vote in record numbers. In fact, 89% of Black women voted for Vice President Kamala Harris, with a significant portion doing so specifically to oppose Trump’s policies. However, the lack of support from white women for candidates or causes that aligned with Black women’s concerns has led to widespread disillusionment.
Actress and comedian Yvette Nicole Brown echoed Reid’s sentiments, sharing on X (formerly Twitter) that Black women are now focusing on uplifting and supporting themselves and their communities. This shift is a response to feeling unsupported by broader coalitions.
Many others, like Ms. Cookie, a popular content creator, have expressed similar frustrations, with one user stating, “We’re done.” These women pointed out that Black women have long been on the front lines of social justice movements, from the #MeToo movement to Black Lives Matter, and have led efforts to support marginalized communities. Given their history of selfless advocacy, the decision to step back now is seen as a necessary and well-earned respite.
In short, Black women are tired of carrying the weight of political activism alone. As they turn inward to focus on their communities, it’s a reminder of their pivotal role in shaping movements and a call for others to recognize the need for collective action, rather than expecting a few individuals to carry the load.
