es·sence /ˈesəns/ noun: the intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something, especially something abstract, that determines its character.
The qualities of Black women, femmes and girls, our narratives, our stories are fluid. We are abstract multifaceted beings with depth and range. The “essence” of Black women, femmes and girls is centered in how we show up authentically by our own definitions, on our own terms. We are integral to the fabric of thriving vibrant communities and families, and yet we still experience acts of racism, sexism, adultification, and transphobia that minimize our ability to live authentically and access our full potential.
This research will inform and influence service providers, funders, and policymakers while uplifting and affirming the voices of all Black women and girls.
In Spring 2019, Grantmakers for Girls of Color issued a call to action to step forward and take charge of advancing research that centers the voices and experiences of girls of color. With the release of their seminal report Start from the Ground Up: Increasing Support for Girls of Color, Grantmakers for Girls of Color provided a framework to support girls of color in our communities. I Be Black Girl in collaboration with University Nebraska at Omaha STEPs is answering that call by conducting localized research that aims to:
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