If you’re interested in sharing your opinion on any cultural, political or personal topic, create an account here and check out our how-to post to learn more. Opinions are the writer’s own and not those of Blavity's. ____ The announcement that Nikole Hannah-Jones would be taking up a position at Howard University after being offered a tenured position at UNC was the plot twist no one saw coming. Her decision is a masterclass to Black women in standing in your power and purpose. Her example shows that we do not have to remain in spaces where we are not valued. Refusing to engage in systems rigged for us to fail is a viable and potentially life-saving option. The debacle of Hannah-Jones’ tenure appointment will resonate with many Black women who have had to navigate elite institutions. Often, there is an ugly dynamic where Black women are made to feel grateful simply for being allowed to take up space. The subtext is that our years of hard work and experience do not count. It...
