Shaping Sisterhood: Reflections from Spelman’s Let's Talk Event
I attended the Let’s Talk Sisterhood event hosted by Spelman College’s Social Justice Program, an empowering experience highlighting the solidarity among the women of Spelman. The esteemed panel, including SGA President Breah Banks, Bonner Scholar Aleisha Sawyer, and Spelman alumnae Venetta Coleman and Patrice Williams, discussed the unique sisterhood fostered at Spelman.
Miss Maroon and White, Olivia Mwangi, moderated the event with poise. During the conversation, she questioned the possible social constraints that may restrict interactions among Spelman sisters in different settings. Williams shared a valuable lesson she learned from her father about being accountable to the community and representing something bigger than oneself. Williams underscored the reciprocal nature of sisterhood, stating, “It’s not just about what others can do for you, but what you can do for others as well.”
The panelists transitioned to an in-depth discussion surrounding the evolving criteria for evaluating relationships. Williams advocated for a shift from superficial judgments based on appearance or affiliations, urging a focus on character, mutual benefit, and safety. Additionally, Coleman introduced the concept of “all your skin, folk, and kin folk,” emphasizing the importance of supporting those committed to the upliftment of the community.
Banks acknowledged the universal challenges of sisterhood but highlighted the transformative power of relationships fostered at Spelman, outweighing the difficulties. Sawyer echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the need to approach relationships with authenticity, understanding, and a willingness to prioritize personal growth.
The panelists dove into discussing the portrayal of sisterhood in the media. Coleman expressed concern about the disconnect between real-life sisterhood and its depiction in reality TV, urging a redefinition of the narrative.
Sawyer expressed a desire to challenge the media’s portrayal of sisterhood, citing the collaboration between Beyoncé and Megan Thee Stallion as a positive example. Sawyer noted the media’s attempt to pit Beyoncé against Taylor Swift but appreciated how both artists supported each other instead, stressing the importance of actively shaping the type of sisterhood one wants to see in one’s life. Sawyer remarked, “Sisterhood can take different forms, but it's up to the individual to shape it positively.”
The discussion extended to personal anecdotes and reflections, with Williams recounting a profound incident during her freshman year, illuminating the unexpected generosity and support within the Spelman community. Williams shared, “Even if we don’t know each other, we have a duty to help and support one another.”
Banks shared insights from navigating diverse environments and finding solace in unexpected connections. Banks reflected, “The relationships fostered at Spelman outweigh the challenges. It's essential to experience and learn from those situations, and Spelman provides many more positive experiences than challenging ones."
As the event neared its conclusion, the conversation shifted towards actions to nurture sisterhood. Williams encouraged gratitude for the unique space that Spelman provides and a commitment to recreating similar spaces in the future. Williams urged, “Let’s always hold that space and gratitude in our hearts and work on ways to recreate it wherever we may be.”
The panel concluded with a call to embody the qualities of a sister, actively engaging with and supporting others. The floor opened for questions, where students sought advice on finding community on campus, navigating social dynamics, and balancing authenticity with diplomacy.
Overall, the Let’s Talk Sisterhood event offered a nuanced understanding of the challenges, responsibilities, and transformative power embedded in the bonds shared among Black women at Spelman College.