As a Black woman who passionately advocates for intersectional feminism, I frequently encounter a common query from friends and acquaintances: “What can I do to help?” While it’s truly encouraging to see so many wanting to support the fight for racial equity, it can be overwhelming to constantly direct them to meaningful actions. I don’t want to come across as frustrated, but I don’t keep a handy list of causes that need attention either. Often, I have to do some research or consult others for recommendations.
The good news is that you can do your own research! It’s simple to explore the information first and then approach me for clarification or personal insights based on my experiences. If I’m unable to provide what you need, I’m more than willing to direct you to someone who has a deeper understanding. This approach not only alleviates the pressure on me but also ensures you’re getting accurate information.
Introducing the Safety Pin Box
For those genuinely eager to contribute but feeling lost on where to begin, I highly recommend the Safety Pin Box. This monthly subscription service was founded by two Black women, Maya Carter and Tia Johnson, in response to the Safety Pin Movement that emerged after the election of our current president. Many people of color perceived this movement as insincere—a way for white allies to ease their own guilt rather than engage in substantial action.
Carter and Johnson, both rooted in Black activism, created the Safety Pin Box to encourage white individuals to consistently support Black liberation through financial contributions and meaningful involvement in the movement. Their website states that the box provides guidance and educational resources from Black women to help allies understand how to dismantle white supremacy.
Supporting Black Women
The Safety Pin Box is designed to uplift Black women, with proceeds directed to organizations such as Black Women Rising. This initiative offers monetary support to individual Black women striving for the liberation of the Black community but lacking adequate financial assistance. Each month, a chosen recipient receives funds to further their cause. This is a far more impactful use of your subscription fee than a set of travel-sized products.
Subscription options range from $25 to $100, with each tier offering unique benefits, including monthly tasks aimed at educating allies about significant historical figures and concepts, exclusive calls to action, and membership in a private Facebook group for subscribers to discuss and share resources. Each month features a different theme—like “Radical Compassion” in December—where subscribers are tasked with examining the life outcomes of Black elders compared to their white counterparts.
A Subscriber’s Perspective
Since I’m not their intended audience, I spoke with a friend who subscribes about her reasons for joining. “I want to make a difference. This was a fantastic opportunity to get involved, and I feel great knowing where my money is going. While donations to organizations like Planned Parenthood and the ACLU are vital, I believe in supporting Black women directly,” she shared.
She emphasized that her understanding of activism has been shaped significantly by Black women and that being a subscriber has connected her with others who share her commitment, allowing her to participate in local calls to action. She’s putting her resources into action.
Who Should Subscribe?
When asked about the target audience for the Safety Pin Box, Carter explained, “Our ideal subscriber recognizes that race is an issue, feels compelled to take action, and is unsure where to start.” Now, more than ever, it’s crucial for those who feel called to action to seek out ways to contribute meaningfully. If this resonates with you, I encourage you to subscribe. Step beyond inaction and take advantage of this opportunity to support a vital cause.
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Conclusion
In summary, if you’re interested in becoming an ally in the fight for racial equity and supporting Black women directly, the Safety Pin Box offers an actionable and educational way to do so.