Sisters in Session is the initial name of the gathering of Black women faculty and staff at James Madison University following a presentation about the status of black women on the campus at the annual diversity conference in 2014. This provided an opportunity for the student services and academic side of us to be together in one spot for the presentation. Given our small numbers on our campus isolation was a huge barrier to supporting one another. At the diversity conference, we saw other women we had not met before - didn't even know they existed in their university units. We decided that once a month the sisters would gather for a meal.  An Evite goes out and those able to come, do.  

 

Why is this important?

We looked at the statistics and considered what felt collectively unnatural to us. Divisions, silos, units - separation - not supportive of what may be our natural inclination for collectivity. We recognized not only a small number of black students on campus,  there is a smaller number of black women on both sides of the academic spectrum available as role models, mentors or supporters. To us, it made no sense never to meet each other.  

 

The "knowing" that comes from a deeper cultural perspective supports the ways of days past where black women sat around the kitchen table, on the stoop watching their children play, or at the community gathering spots.  It is the place where our connections were strong without a lot of direct conversation about the struggles and more celebrations about the "overcoming" and "just being"... and the pride of achieving. 
 

Given the demographic changes coming quickly in society, we must work to reduce our isolation in higher education. We must develop strategies to find paths of achieving, though the obstacles may be great.  We cannot afford for another  woman to come and go without a greeting or any acknowledgment of her presence.  This isolation can be debilitating if we let it.  

 

We decided not to let our positive efforts and contributions to our institution go unnoticed. AND we wanted to know other women who are striving, surviving and achieving. We acknowledge that each of us holds part of the answer to our development. We wanted to make connections not only for support, but for developing professional connections and opportunities.  As in our past, we make a way out of no way. 

 

Come join us in mapping a positive direction that connects us more than it divides us.

 

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The AYA, a West African Adinkra symbol represents the fern, a hardy plant that can grow in difficult places.  It represents our resourcefulness and endurance.

The Black Women in the Academy Conference is being organized by the sisters of JMU who are affirming their contributions to higher education and establishing space for seeking answers to dilemmas of inclusion.  Black women are more powerful together than alone.  The isolation can be overwhelming, but connecting increases visibility.