Rest is not something earned; it is what we deserve. Black women are the backbones of our families and communities. We are leaders, innovators, and change agents. We are mentors, caregivers, and nurturers. We pour into others, ensuring that every need is met. We continuously overcome systemic barriers and obstacles designed to keep us down, yet we still excel. This is why Black women resting is our true superpower. We don’t do it to reward ourselves; we do it because, with proper rest, we can live a life that is fulfilling. Rest isn’t something that should be compromised, bargained with, or explained. Rest is a right that must be honored and respected, especially for Black women.
As we continue to advocate for our well-being, the National Day of Rest for Black Women serves as a crucial reminder of our right to reclaim rest. That is why Women for the Culture is a firm advocate of the National Day of Rest for Black Women. Traditionally observed on December 2, this year it is scheduled for March 10 to honor Harriet Tubman's legacy and the resilience Black women carry. This day not only highlights the importance of rest but also offers a collective opportunity for Black women to pause, reflect, and recharge in solidarity.
Harriet Tubman, born Araminta Ross around March 1822, was an American abolitionist and social activist. After escaping slavery, she made approximately 13 missions to rescue around 70 enslaved individuals, including her family and friends, utilizing the network known as the Underground Railroad. Her relentless efforts and resilience exemplify the strength and determination that Black women have carried throughout history. Tubman passed away on March 10, 1913, at the age of 91.
In recognition of her contributions, Tubman was posthumously promoted to brigadier general during a Veterans Day event in Maryland in November 2024.
There’s a constant conversation about Black women reclaiming their time, as our Aunt Maxine Waters timelessly stated, by unapologetically entering our soft girl era. The soft girl era isn’t just about embracing gentleness; it’s about reclaiming our peace and taking ownership of our right to softness in a world that demands our strength. Black women are reclaiming our right to be softer with ourselves and only accepting others being soft toward us. Yet, sometimes our efforts fall through the cracks as we tirelessly return to our roles of wearing many hats. Despite our reclaiming of softness, society’s expectations often pull us back into these roles, making rest feel like a luxury we can’t afford. This is why the National Day of Rest for Black Women is so important. It reminds us of our worth and our right to rest. While many may not have the luxury of affording rest in the way they desire, let’s explore how we can begin to integrate rest into our daily lives, not just on the National Day of Rest, but every day, as a fundamental right and a key to our resilience.
As a mental health professional, I often teach my clients ways to incorporate rest into their daily routines. One of my favorite suggestions is to start your day with ease. This could look like waking up earlier to ensure you have ample time to do things that you enjoy and that feel relaxing, such as prayer, meditation, reading a book, or journaling. Some might even find that talking to friends and loved ones in the morning while preparing for the day provides ease, as they might not have an opportunity later in the day, or due to busy schedules, it may not happen often. We have to think outside the box to allow ourselves to experience what we truly need, so yes, rest can be found gently and intentionally pouring into relationships that honor us.
Here are three other out-of-the-box ways Black women can implement rest on March 10:
1. Create and Establish a "Rest Retreat" at Home: While a vacation is always necessary, it might not always be easy or accessible. This is where you can get creative and create your retreat right in the safety of your own home. This could look like setting up specific areas to mirror what a retreat would look like. Make sure the lighting is soft, relaxing scents are diffusing, and calming, relaxing music is playing.
2. Organize a Rest-Focused Collective Gathering: Gather with the women in your community to create a day of rest and relaxation. This time together shouldn’t be spent talking about your roles and responsibilities but should simply allow space to let go and be free. In this collective gathering, you can do group activities such as listening to gentle music, playing games, walking together, or simply create a space where women can relax in stillness and safety—where nothing is on the agenda except doing what feels most comfortable to the attendees when they think about relaxation.
3. Unplug and Disconnect from Screen Time: Yes, this suggestion is commonly made, but it is so important to allow ourselves space and time away from platforms that demand so much of our attention and can be completely draining. Instead of scrolling through social media platforms or binge-watching television, spend time in nature, allow your creativity to flow, try a new hobby, or simply take a nap... or several.
As we embrace our birthright to rest, let's honor ourselves and each other by prioritizing rest and rejuvenation. Join Women for the Culture in celebrating this powerful day on March 10. Connect with us and share your plans for rest, reflection, and renewal. We’d love to hear how you’re reclaiming your power and prioritizing your rest.
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