Happy Black Girl Day Off!

October 11th is...

Black Girl Day Off!




A day deadicated to Black women and girls taking a mental health day to take care of themselves and their minds.

Blackgirls face unique external factors when it comes to mental health dispositions, which are the result of prejudice and discrimination based on race (Black) and gender (girl/femme presenting). This prejudice against Blackgirls and women is also known as misogynoir.

It was noted by the U.S Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health that as of 2021, Blackgirls in high school were 60% more likely to attempt suicide than their non-Hispanic white counterparts.

Due to adutification bias (the viewing of Blackgirls as more adult-like and less needing of nurturing, protection, and more knowledgable of adult topics) Blackgirls recieve less aid in mentally taxng or threatening situations, withb the expectation that we are 'mature enough to handle it on our own.'

This idea has seeped itself into the mindset of many Blackgirls out there (myself included). We feel that we cannot reach out for support when facing mental health challenges, further digging ourselves into a pit of loneliness and despair. 

However, there is a way out.

Taking your "Black Girl Day Off" is one of the first steps. Founded by Tomeka Casanova, it is a day where Black women and girls can take a (well-deserved) mental health day. A day deadicated to our peace, healing, and liberation.

So I encourage you today Blackgirl, do something that brings you peace. 
Sing, 
Dance, 
Draw, 
Bake, 
Clean, 
Walk, 
Run
Meaditate
And whatever else your brain and body needs

Remember that even through the struggles and responsibilities in this world, NOTHING is more important than your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Take care of yourself today, Blackgirl. And enjoy your #BlackgirlDayOff

-Ebony Esquiress

Mental Health Resources
Suicide Hotline:  Call or text 988
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
Trevor Project Lifeline: 1-866-488-7386
            SOCIAL MEDIA COMMUNITIES (INSTAGRAM): -The Black Girl Battle
                                                                                                    -Justice for Black Girls
                                                                                                    -Black Girls Smile
                                    (Comment any more you know of!)

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