I had the pleasure of seeing Angie Thomas speak live at the opening night for the MA Conference for Women in December. This quote was as relevant then, as it is now. Our political systems and structures do not reflect our values or worth as a diverse, vibrant society. As Mothers we are at the heart of change that happens within our homes and our communities.

We have incredible power in what we teach our children and how we demonstrate care and belief in other people’s children. Even when (especially when) those children may not look like us.

Many of us have broken hearts right now as we watch the legacy of hate and division tear our people and communities further apart. To all of the black and brown Mamas, I see you and I know how hard this is on top of the years and years of hard. Please take care of yourselves in addition to the care you give to your families everyday. You may be tempted to stop the amazing work that you’re doing, please don’t. Pause or slow down, but don’t stop.

To our white allies, thank you for the notes, emails, questions and resources that have been shared. Your active support and advocacy are essential to create a culture where we can safely participate and raise our children.

XO, Leslie Forde (Founder, Mom’s Hierarchy of Needs)