Unapologetically Black Thriving in Spaces That Weren’t Built for Us

Being a Black girl in predominantly white spaces isn’t just about showing up, it’s about surviving, thriving, and staying true to yourself. My name is Arianna, and I was raised in Boston, but my school experience has often meant navigating environments where I felt like I didn’t belong. I’ve had to learn how to hold my ground, even when I felt invisible or misunderstood. This article was born out of that struggle. This article is for every Black girl who’s ever felt out of place and who’s had to wrestle with the pressure to fit into spaces that weren’t built for them. 

These 5 tips are my way of saying: I see you, I hear you, and I know how hard it is. Resilience is what holds it all together. It’s not just a word, it’s a weapon, a shield, a fire inside that keeps burning no matter how hard the world tries to put it out. Resilience is what we lean on when we’re told we’re “too much” or “not enough.” It’s deciding, every day, to take up space and be unapologetically ourselves. And that’s where these tips come in. They’re more than advice, they’re lifelines. Inspired by the strength of women like Sojourner Truth, these tips are a reminder that you can thrive in a world that doesn’t always welcome you. You don’t have to shrink, change, or dim your light. Let’s claim our space, tell our stories, and own our power. Now let’s get into it. 

1. Own Your Narrative: Write your story, don’t let others define you

“Write your story, don’t let others define you” emphasizes the importance of taking control of how you are perceived by actively shaping your own story, rather than passively allowing others to interpret and narrate your life based on their perspectives, which could be inaccurate or limiting.

I found my voice as a writer when my English teacher gave me a creative writing assignment. My teachers’ positive feedback gave me the courage to keep writing about what matters to me, including my experiences as a Black girl in a mostly white school. This journey has inspired me to help others who have felt silenced or marginalized, and to amplify their voices.

Encourages authenticity and self-determination in how you present yourself to the world. Nobody gets to tell you who you are but you. I’ve had to learn this the hard way, when others try to box me into their stereotypes or limit my potential based on their expectations. I won’t let them. Like the leaders who shaped our history, I take control of my own story. You have the power to shape your own narrative too, no matter what anyone else says.

2. Speak Truth to Power: Use your voice, challenge injustices.

Speaking truth to power and using your voice to challenge injustices is a powerful act of resistance, empowerment, and transformation that can create a ripple effect of positive change, inspire collective action, and ultimately contribute to the creation of a more just, equitable, and compassionate society for all. 

With fierce determination, I broke the silence, year after year, by applying for the student advisory board, fighting for a fairer and more inclusive school community. I also kept pushing for change by applying to the Student Voice Summit every year, driven by a strong passion for making things right, amplifying the voices of marginalized students, and challenging unfair systems. Despite facing rejection and disappointment many times, I stayed strong, driven by a commitment to fighting for justice, equality, and the rights of all students.

Your voice matters. Don’t let anyone make you feel like your opinions or your truths don’t count. Whether it’s standing up for what’s right in class or speaking out against the things that hurt you, never let fear silence you. Rosa Parks didn’t stay quiet when injustice was staring her in the face, neither should you. If you’re passionate about something, say it loud, say it proud. To speak truth to power, start by calling out what’s wrong—even in small ways. Question what doesn’t sit right, write about it, and don’t back down. Every voice matters, and yours will be the one to change things.

3. Unapologetically You: Rock your natural hair, style, and swag. 

Unapologetically embracing your natural hair, style, and swag as a Black girl in an all-white school is a powerful act of self-love, empowerment, and resistance that challenges Eurocentric beauty standards and inspires others to celebrate their unique identity. 

After a journey of self-discovery and growth, I finally felt confident and comfortable wearing my natural hair to school, which led to enlightening conversations with my peers, including non-Black students who were curious about my braids and hair textures, and although it was initially uncomfortable, it ultimately helped to break down barriers and foster greater understanding and appreciation. 

Wear your natural hair, your style, and your swag like the crown they are. Just like Angela Davis rocked her natural hair as a symbol of power, your authenticity is your rebellion, your statement to the world that you’re here, and you won’t be erased.

4. Celebrate Heritage: Share Black culture, history, and triumphs

Sharing Black culture, history, and triumphs is important because it allows for a more complete understanding of American society, promotes empathy and racial justice by highlighting the resilience and achievements of Black people despite historical oppression, empowers Black individuals by showcasing their heritage and role models, and provides educational opportunities for everyone to learn about a often overlooked part of history that significantly shaped the nation.

With unbridled passion, I ignited a revolutionary celebration of Black culture, shattering systemic silence and oppression, and unleashing a thunderous declaration of African American strength, brilliance, and resilience, fueling a movement that demands freedom, justice, and equality.

Don’t let anyone erase the beauty and power of Black history and culture. Our stories are filled with triumphs, struggles, victories, and voices that built this country. You don’t have to shrink to fit in, instead, share your culture proudly. Harriet Tubman didn’t hide her truth, she led others to freedom. Celebrate your heritage every day, and let others see the greatness you come from.  

5. Find Your Tribe: Join Black student groups, online forums, and mentorship programs. 

Finding my tribe at school was a game-changer. The Black Student Alliance (BSA) became my safe haven, where I could share my experiences, receive support, and plan events that showcased our rich culture. Our monthly meetings were a reminder that even in a predominantly white school, my voice mattered. One of my proudest moments was organizing our first-ever diversity potluck, which brought together students from all walks of life. The room was packed, and the energy was electric. It was a powerful reminder that our differences are what make us stronger.

Outside of school, I found another tribe in Delta GEMS, a mentorship program designed to empower Black girls like me. Through this program, I’ve learned to lead with confidence, dream big, and stay true to myself. Whether it’s BSA or Delta GEMS, these spaces have taught me that I’m not alone in this journey. Together, we’re unstoppable. 

HCBUs were also created as safe spaces for Black girls, where we can be our authentic selves without apology. If you’re not at an HBCU, don’t worry – your tribe is still out there. Seek out Black student groups, online forums, or mentorship programs where you can connect with like-minded sisters. Surround yourself with people who uplift, inspire, and push you to be your best self. With your tribe behind you, nothing can stop you from achieving greatness.

As this article comes to an end, remember that you are part of a legacy of strong, courageous Black women who refused to be held back. Women like Rosa Parks, Harriet Tubman, who fought for their freedom, their rights, and their dignity. You too, can tap into that same strength and resilience. You too, can rise above the doubts, the fears, and the uncertainties that may hold you back. You too, can thrive in a world that often seems designed to hold you back, remember, your voice matters. Your presence matters. Your Blackness matters. Don’t let anyone ever make you feel otherwise. So go out there and own your space. Own your voice. Own your Blackness. You are the future, and the future is bright.