UNRIG THE GAME

Women of color leading the way.

Women of color have historically been the “most progressive and civically engaged” citizens in the United States. So argues Daniel, a former grassroots activist and nonprofit executive director who writes, “No other demographic group in the nation stands up more strongly against hate and more clearly for freedom, climate action, and human rights.” In a book that draws on interviews with “beloved elders” like labor activist Dolores Huerta and civil rights leader Bernice Johnson Reagon, as well as Daniel’s own career experience, the author explores what it means to be a woman in such a role. Because women of color live at the intersection of multiple forces of oppression, they have, she writes, “360-degree vision…that begins in families and spreads to communities,” allowing them to tackle several problems at once. Women of color also have the courage to take—and encourage—bold leaps forward to help those in need and the generosity of spirit to understand that it is only by lifting their communities that they rise. Yet these abilities, combined with their visibility, put them at risk for difficulties that their white counterparts might not face. One of the most pernicious is the expectation to caretake organizations and staff members as mother or “mammy” figures. When a woman of color in leadership says no, she can be vilified by others—including her peers—and left feeling exhausted and demoralized. Speaking from experience and observation, Daniel emphasizes the need for women of color to build a “squad” of trustworthy colleagues and draw “strong boundaries” to keep overwork and self-sacrifice at bay. Impassioned and insightful, this book illuminates the true condition of women of color as it highlights strategies to help ensure their success.

Necessary reading for leaders and anyone committed to creating positive social change.