Advocacy – Crowned in Black Love

The Disappearance Crisis: Why Black Women and Girls Are Disproportionately Missing

Published on March 24, 2025March 23, 2025 by Black RoyaltyLeave a comment

The tragic and systemic issue of missing Black women and girls is a crisis that demands more attention. Due to a combination of systemic racism, violence, and human trafficking, Black women and girls are disproportionately impacted by abductions and disappearances in the United States. Unfortunately, these cases are often underreported and underrecognized, which perpetuates an environment of neglect.

Statistics: The Harsh Reality of Missing Black Women and Girls

In 2022, Black women and girls represented a staggering 36% of the missing women and girls reported to the National Crime Information Center. This figure starkly contrasts with the proportion of Black women and girls in the overall population, highlighting a deep and concerning issue of racial inequality in how missing persons are reported and investigated.

Black women are also six times more likely to be murdered than their white counterparts. This statistic reflects the extreme violence many Black women face in society—violence that is often overlooked or not taken seriously by law enforcement.

Furthermore, Black women and girls are disproportionately affected by human trafficking, where they face higher rates of exploitation, both within the United States and internationally. These young women are often preyed upon because of their vulnerability, which is compounded by a lack of resources and support when they go missing.

Advocacy: Organizations Making a Difference

Several organizations are working tirelessly to raise awareness and support the families of missing Black women and girls. These organizations offer resources, education, and platforms for advocacy.

The Black and Missing Foundation works to highlight cases of missing Black individuals, offering media training for families of missing persons and creating essential survival guides. The Foundation helps families navigate the often overwhelming process of dealing with law enforcement and the media when a loved one goes missing.
From the Bottom Up Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Black women and girls, providing crucial programs and services that focus on empowerment and safety. Their work is vital in addressing the root causes of disappearances, including systemic neglect and abuse.

Resources: Raising Awareness and Providing Support

In response to the growing crisis, governmental and non-governmental organizations are offering resources for those affected.

The Office of Justice Programs has hosted national convenings to raise awareness about the systemic issues behind the disproportionate number of missing Black individuals. These initiatives aim to bring together community leaders, law enforcement, and activists to create solutions and push for systemic change.
The Department of Justice provides a family survival guide for when a child or family member goes missing. This guide offers step-by-step instructions for parents and guardians, helping them navigate the immediate steps to take when faced with a missing loved one. It also provides resources for law enforcement, supporting them in addressing these cases more effectively.

The Impact: Addressing the Root Causes

The disproportionate number of missing Black women and girls speaks to broader systemic issues in society. Racial bias within law enforcement often results in Black individuals, especially women and girls, not receiving the same level of attention and urgency in missing persons cases as their white counterparts. Additionally, economic inequality and social neglect leave many Black women and girls vulnerable to trafficking, violence, and exploitation.

The lack of adequate resources for Black families, particularly those in low-income communities, contributes to the crisis. These families are often left without the support needed to ensure that their missing loved ones are given the attention they deserve. This inequality creates a culture where Black lives are treated as less valuable, and the urgency of their cases is often minimized.

Why This Crisis Must Be Recognized

The issue of missing Black women and girls is a profound injustice that highlights the failure of society to protect and value marginalized communities. Raising awareness, increasing media coverage, and providing resources are essential to addressing this crisis. We must work together to ensure that every person, regardless of race or background, is given the resources and support needed when they are in danger or go missing.

It’s essential that Black families are given the tools to protect their loved ones. Knowledge is power, and advocacy organizations like the Black and Missing Foundation and From the Bottom Up Foundation are fighting for the recognition and action that Black women and girls need.

We must continue to advocate for the safety of our communities, support those working to bring change, and demand that the lives of Black women and girls matter—both in life and when they go missing.

Conclusion: A Call for Change

The crisis of missing Black women and girls is a matter of life and death. As a community, we must fight against the systemic issues that perpetuate this tragedy. By raising awareness, providing support, and working together, we can protect our loved ones and bring about the systemic change needed to ensure Black women and girls are safe. Knowledge, advocacy, and unity are key to bringing about justice and ending this crisis.

#BlackWomenMatter #BlackGirlsMatter #MissingPersonsAwareness #JusticeForBlackWomen #EndSystemicRacism

Black women and girls are disproportionately missing in the U.S. due to systemic racism, violence, and trafficking. Learn why this crisis is often ignored and how advocacy groups are fighting for justice. #BlackWomenMatter #MissingBlackWomen #JusticeForBlackGirls

Overcoming Parenting Challenges as a Black Family

Published on March 7, 2025March 5, 2025 by Black Royalty3 Comments

Navigating the System

Parenting in today’s world comes with its fair share of challenges. However, for Black families, these challenges can often be compounded by systemic biases in education, healthcare, and the justice system. Raising children in an environment where barriers are sometimes built against them requires resilience, advocacy, and a strong sense of empowerment. As Black parents, we’re not just raising children; we’re raising leaders who must navigate a world that can be unfair, but also a world that they can change. In this post, we’ll explore strategies for overcoming these challenges while ensuring that our children grow up with the tools they need to succeed and thrive.

1. Understanding Systemic Bias in Education

The education system has long been a battleground for Black children, from disparities in school funding to the disproportionate disciplinary actions faced by students of color. As Black parents, it’s essential to stay informed about the biases in education that may affect your child’s academic journey. Advocate for your child’s right to equal opportunities, be proactive in attending school meetings, and always keep communication open with teachers and administrators.

Pro Tip: Ensure that your child has access to resources and programs that foster their strengths, whether it’s after-school programs, mentorship, or academic support. Use these resources to bridge gaps where the system falls short.
Actionable Strategy: If you notice your child is being unfairly disciplined or isn’t receiving the support they need, speak up. Attend parent-teacher conferences, request meetings, and don’t be afraid to seek legal counsel if you suspect discrimination or a violation of your child’s rights.

2. Navigating Healthcare and Supporting Mental Health

Black families often face challenges in healthcare, from underrepresentation in medical research to implicit biases in healthcare settings. Unfortunately, these disparities can sometimes result in misdiagnoses, inadequate care, and a lack of support, especially for mental health. It’s crucial for Black parents to be proactive when it comes to their children’s health and well-being.

Pro Tip: Take the time to research healthcare providers and ensure they are culturally competent. It’s essential that the professionals caring for your child understand and respect your culture, as well as the unique challenges your child may face.
Actionable Strategy: Don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion if you feel your child isn’t getting the care they need. For mental health, specifically, consider finding therapists or counselors who are experienced in working with children of color and are sensitive to the unique stressors Black children may face.

3. Teaching Resilience in the Face of Systemic Challenges

Systemic bias isn’t something that can be erased overnight, but Black families have a history of resilience in the face of adversity. One of the most important gifts you can give your child is the ability to navigate and respond to systemic challenges with strength and confidence. Teaching your child resilience involves acknowledging the challenges they may face while empowering them to rise above them.

Pro Tip: Encourage your child to embrace their identity with pride. Help them understand that while they may encounter unfairness, their worth is not defined by society’s biases. Empower them with the knowledge that they have the power to change their circumstances through education, self-advocacy, and persistence.
Actionable Strategy: Encourage open conversations with your child about the realities they may face. Teach them how to advocate for themselves, stand up for their rights, and speak confidently in spaces where they might feel marginalized.

4. Advocating for Your Child’s Rights and Future

As a Black family, it’s essential to be your child’s strongest advocate. Whether it’s in the classroom, the doctor’s office, or in front of a judge, you are your child’s voice. When challenges arise, it’s important to advocate for their needs and ensure that they have access to the resources they deserve.

Pro Tip: Be proactive in understanding your rights as a parent. Familiarize yourself with local laws, resources, and organizations that can help you advocate for your child in times of need. This includes knowing your rights in education, healthcare, and the justice system.
Actionable Strategy: Join local advocacy groups that focus on the needs of Black families, whether it’s in education or healthcare. These groups can be a source of support, guidance, and information on how to best advocate for your child’s rights.

5. Empowering Black Children to Lead and Succeed

Beyond overcoming systemic challenges, it’s vital to empower Black children with the tools they need to succeed. This means teaching them about their history, encouraging them to excel in their passions, and supporting them as they strive toward their goals. Black children have limitless potential, and we must nurture that potential every step of the way.

Pro Tip: Provide a strong support system that encourages your child to explore their interests, whether it’s sports, academics, the arts, or leadership. Make sure they know they are supported and loved every step of the way.
Actionable Strategy: Help your child develop strong role models by introducing them to Black leaders, both historical and contemporary. These figures can inspire them and show them what’s possible when they believe in themselves.

Closing:

Parenting as a Black family often involves navigating a world that’s not always kind or fair. But within these challenges lies an incredible opportunity to raise children who are resilient, empowered, and capable of overcoming anything they face. By advocating for their needs, teaching them about their worth, and equipping them with the tools to succeed, we can help them build a future that’s bright and full of possibility. Together, we can break down the barriers of the system, one step at a time, and create a legacy of strength, pride, and success for future generations.

Navigating systemic bias as a Black family can be tough, but with advocacy, resilience, and empowerment, our children can overcome. Learn strategies to help your child thrive. #BlackParenting #Advocacy #Resilience 💪🏾

Why Voting Matters in the Black Community

Published on February 12, 2025February 16, 2025 by Black Royalty1 Comment

When you hear the phrase “Your vote matters,” what does it really mean? Voting is more than just ticking a box on a ballot—it’s one of the most powerful ways to influence change, create a better future, and hold our leaders accountable. For the Black community, voting holds deep significance, not only because it’s a right we fought long and hard for, but also because it’s a tool we can use to bring about meaningful progress.

In this blog, we’ll explore why voting matters so much in the Black community and how making our voices heard at the polls can lead to positive change for generations to come.

1. A Hard-Won Right:

For centuries, Black Americans fought for the right to vote. From the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement, countless Black leaders and activists worked tirelessly to ensure that Black people could vote freely and without barriers. The struggle wasn’t easy—there were literacy tests, poll taxes, and outright violence aimed at preventing Black voters from having a say in their future.

That fight continues today, as we still face challenges such as voter suppression and gerrymandering. But knowing the sacrifices made by those who came before us is a reminder of how powerful our vote truly is. When we vote, we honor the struggle for equality and justice that has been a part of Black history.

2. Shaping Policies That Affect Us:

When we vote, we have the opportunity to elect leaders who represent our values and fight for policies that matter to our community. Whether it’s education, criminal justice reform, healthcare, or economic equality, our votes help decide who is in power and what issues they prioritize.

Many policies that directly affect the Black community—like police reform, voting rights, and access to affordable healthcare—are determined by elected officials. By voting, we are directly influencing decisions that can improve our lives and our communities. Not voting means allowing others to make decisions for us without our input, which can lead to policies that don’t reflect our needs or concerns.

3. Representation Matters:

It’s not enough to just vote—we also need to make sure our communities are well-represented. Voting for candidates who understand the unique challenges faced by Black people ensures that our voices are heard at every level of government. Whether it’s electing Black leaders or allies who champion policies that support racial justice, representation matters in shaping the laws that govern us.

Having representatives who understand our experiences can make a world of difference in creating change. For example, during the Civil Rights Movement, Black leaders in Congress played crucial roles in passing landmark legislation like the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act. When we vote, we increase the likelihood of electing more leaders who can continue that legacy.

4. Fighting for Social Justice:

Social justice issues that affect the Black community—such as police violence, systemic racism, and economic inequality—are often influenced by the leaders we elect. Voting is one of the most powerful ways we can advocate for justice. By supporting candidates who are committed to fighting racial injustice and inequality, we are helping to push for a future where everyone has a fair chance at success.

For example, in recent years, the Black Lives Matter movement has sparked national conversations about police brutality and the need for criminal justice reform. Voting for leaders who take these issues seriously can help turn these conversations into real change. Our vote is one of the strongest tools we have to demand that the issues we care about are addressed.

5. Building a Stronger Community:

Voting also strengthens our community by bringing us together for a common purpose. When we mobilize to vote, we build unity around shared values and goals. It’s an opportunity for us to show up for each other, organize, and make our voices heard as a collective force.

Community engagement through voting also promotes civic responsibility. When we vote, we are setting an example for the next generation. Children who see their parents and family members vote are more likely to grow up valuing their right to participate in democracy and continue the tradition of voting in future elections.

6. Creating Long-Term Change:

Voting is not just about one election; it’s about creating lasting change. Every election, whether local, state, or national, has an impact. Voting for leaders who prioritize issues like education, affordable housing, healthcare, and job opportunities can set the stage for long-term progress.

By continuously engaging in the political process, we ensure that our needs are met over time. We can hold elected officials accountable and push for policies that will continue to improve the quality of life for Black families and communities.

Conclusion:

Voting is a powerful tool for change in the Black community. It’s a right that was hard-won and should never be taken for granted. When we vote, we honor the legacy of those who fought for equality, we shape policies that directly affect our lives, and we advocate for the issues that matter most to our communities.

Every election is an opportunity to make a difference. Your vote is your voice, and when you use it, you are actively participating in the creation of a better future for Black America. Let’s honor our past, fight for our present, and vote for a brighter tomorrow.

Voting matters in the Black community! It’s a tool for change, justice, and progress. Let’s use our voices to shape the future we deserve. #BlackCommunity #VotingMatters #CivicEngagement [link]