Raging Femme

Black women disproportionately experience intimate partner violence (IPV), medical racism, maternal mortality, and the struggles of single motherhood-all of which have long-lasting effects on both mothers and their children. These systemic issues are deeply connected, creating a cycle of vulnerability, neglect, and survival that Black women are often left to navigate alone.
One of the most alarming issues is IPV during pregnancy, as Black women experience higher rates of domestic violence than any other racial group.
Tragically, homicide is the leading cause of death for pregnant and postpartum Black women, often at the hands of an intimate partner. Pregnancy can trigger or escalate abuse, leaving many Black women trapped in dangerous situations with little protection or resources
At the same time, Black women face a maternal health crisis fueled by medical racism. We are three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than white women, largely due to healthcare providers dismissing our pain and failing to take our symptoms seriously. The stress of violence, poverty, and systemic neglect only worsens health outcomes, yet rather than being protected and supported, Black women are often blamed for their own suffering.
For many, single motherhood becomes an additional struggle, whether due to IPV, partner abandonment, or the incarceration of Black men. Raising children alone without financial or emotional support leaves many Black mothers in a constant battle of survival. This, in turn, affects the next generation, as children growing up in trauma-filled environments often lack the stability and resources they need to thrive.
The impact on both mothers and children is
devastating. Women forced into single single motherhood face financial instability, extreme stress, and limited support, yet they are still expected to carry the weight of raising and nurturing their children alone.
Meanwhile, children born into these circumstances are more likely to experience poverty, trauma, and unstable home environments, continuing the cycle.
Despite all of this, Black mothers continue to fight, love, and sacrifice-but at what cost?

Because of the inequities Black women face-not just from society, but even from our male counterparts- Womb
Preservation is an act of self-protection and empowerment. Too often, women are left bearing the burden of single motherhood with little to no support, while men feel entitled to a woman continuing their lineage rather than honored by it. This mindset must change. A child should never be the result of carelessness or entitlement, but of mutual commitment, stability, and preparation.
We must be intentional about who we create life with, when, and under what circumstances. The goal is not just to survive motherhood, but to thrive in it.
That means choosing partners who earn the privilege of fatherhood and ensuring that we are financially, emotionally, and mentally prepared in the event that we do become single parents. Womb preservation allows us to take control over our futures rather than being left to struggle under unfair conditions.
Black women deserve protection, support, and respect. We need stronger legal protections for those experiencing IPV, culturally competent healthcare that acknowledges and addresses medical racism, and community support systems that ensure Black mothers are not left to struggle alone. The cycles of violence, neglect, and systemic failure must end.
Our survival should not be a battle. Our pain should not be ignored. It's time to protect ourselves, make intentional choices, and ensure that we, and our children, have the chance to thrive.