8: There’s Beauty in Vulnerability Within the Workplace

As women of color we have been historically pushed to our breaking points as a result of a plethora of stereotypes, racially charged incidents, and unrealistic standards. Through it all we are applauded for our resilience, our tenacity, our steadfastness, however this is a fellow woman of color taking a stance against that narrative. To uphold this narrative that we should be shouldering all of these burdens and continuing to push through is not the message we should be sending to our sisters in arms. Instead I propose that we strive toward a futurity that embraces women of color to rest, to say no, to prioritize their well-being over productivity. This future is not possible without Black and Brown women letting their guards down, allowing for other women to see their true selves. This requires a level of vulnerability that is not common nor are many of us comfortable with. Therefore this book chapter proposes a look into how my lived experiences may be a launching point for this conversation around what vulnerability can look like in the workplace and how we can integrate these new practices, as well as addressing the complications that come with being vulnerable.