Words of Wisdom - Shirley Chisholm on Making Progress
"You don't make progress by standing on the sidelines, whimpering and complaining. You make progress by implementing ideas." - Shirley Chisholm
Introduction
In a world where some groups remain marginalized and invisible, pursuing one's dreams can feel like an uphill battle. Whether you're called to a higher purpose or striving for success in a predominantly white and male-centric environment, it's easy to feel defeated. However, as Shirley Chisholm once said, you have a choice – to succumb to defeat or to craft a plan for your future. In this article, we'll explore how the pioneering spirit of Shirley Chisholm, the first African American woman appointed to Congress, can inspire us to overcome obstacles and seek partnerships to achieve our goals.
Shirley Chisholm: A Trailblazer's Legacy
Shirley Chisholm's remarkable journey began in 1968 when she became the first African American woman to be appointed to Congress. In 1972, Chisholm became the first African American to seek the presidential nomination from a major political party. Author of the book, Unbought, Unbossed, Chisholm became a symbol of the radical courage and tenacity that Black women would need to embrace for their own survival and that of their communities. Chisholm's achievements weren't solitary; she excelled in collaborating with fellow lawmakers to accomplish her goals.
Seeking Partnerships for Success
In today's world, many of our ambitions can only be realized through collaborative efforts. Whether you're striving for change in ministry, academia, or any field where diversity and inclusion are scarce, forming partnerships becomes crucial. Consider where you're seeking these partnerships and how you can trust others to work toward shared objectives. Building a committee of support for your aspirations is a powerful strategy.
Your Committee of Support
Reflect on the concept of a "committee." Who do you serve on? Who serves on yours? It's essential to understand your role in these networks. If you aspire to learn more from the practices of Radical Black Women, start by implementing meaningful changes now. These actions can pave the way for lasting transformation and progress.
Conclusion: Shirley Chisholm's legacy teaches us that even in the face of adversity, we can rise above it, create partnerships, and achieve our goals. By recognizing the importance of collaboration and support networks, we can break down barriers and drive meaningful change. As we continue our conversation on mentoring, remember Chisholm's resilience and determination as we work towards a more inclusive and equitable future. Stay tuned for more inspiration and insights in October.
Dr. Nash, the Misogynoir to Mishpat (M2M) Research Network © 2024
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