WOC vs. Motherhood

Have you been watching the news? Does it make you second guess your decision to have children? What kind of world do we live in today? Why is pedophilia treated as a mental illness instead of a crime? Why is it acceptable for me to create new life only to have it snuffed out because society does not see a black child’s life as valuable?

These are the thoughts that plague my mind during all hours of the night. They say the worry begins the moment you take the pregnancy test. However, for a lot of black women myself included, the worry starts the moment you open your eyes. I know that I am not the only woman of color doubting whether they are willing to risk motherhood in the current climate. These days I feel as if I am a mother to all children of color. I find myself watching them closely, afraid that this world will deal them a life sentence that they should not have to pay.

The burden placed on the lives of those who do not fall under what is considered the western standard of beauty is unfair. I pray my way through my doubts, fears, worry, and pain but that does not make my decision any easier. Will our children ever be safe? Is change going to come or shall I conclude my family’s lineage to spare the lives of my unborn children?