Recognizing Black Women’s History Month

Since 2016, April has been acknowledged as Black Women’s History month, thanks to the work of entrepreneur and tech consultant Sha Battle. She began the movement in Atlanta, even receiving a commendation to formalize its recognition.1 Battle describes the mission of Black Women’s History month as:

“. . . to embrace achievements, build understanding and awareness, and to celebrate the rich history of the past, present and future generations of not only Black Women but African, Women of Color and Minority Women who are the Descendants of Africa . . .”2

CBE likewise recognizes and hopes to honor the vast contributions Black women have made not only in society, but within the church—especially concerning Biblical equality. Please enjoy these articles that discuss motherhood, womanhood, leadership, and faith from the perspective of Black women.

There’s No Such Thing As A “Woman of God”
By Khristi L. Adams

Khristi Adams reminds readers that we have authored an unattainable image of near-perfection in the cultural understanding of a “woman of God.” Instead, she writes, we are women of God as we are.

What I Wish You Knew About Black Women in Ministry: An Open Letter
By Deirdre “Jonese” Austin

Deirdre Austin writes from her perspective as a young Black woman in ministry in to address the unique experiences of Black women within the church. Her hope is this letter will give readers a better understanding of how they can support Black women in ministry.

Why It’s Important for Women to Share Their Stories
By Lorri E. Baldwin

Lorri Baldwin encourages women to share their authentic voices, as they may help another woman or girl-child going through similar challenges or issues.

Defy the Status Quo With Me: A Letter from Your Fellow Nonconformist
By LaLeita N. Small

The status quo is a manifestation of sexism, classism, racism, socialism, discrimination, and denominational practices. LaLeita Small calls women to be transformed by a new revelation rather than conform to these pressures.

Liberation in God’s Name: Daydreams of a Black Mother
By Kristina Brown Button

Kristina Button share her struggle as a Black woman to develop her identity as a wife, mother, and Christian inside the white evangelical church—and how she found healing through learning to dream again.

A Single Testimony Changes Generations
By Natasha Sistrunk Robinson

Natasha Robinson shares her mother’s story, who transformed lives, churches, and communities because she daily joined in the work God was doing.

A Celebration of Singleness
By Khristi L. Adams

Khristi Adams challenges readers to re-center our attention on the larger purpose of the kingdom of God and correct the church’s idolatry of marriage. This way, all people can use their gifts for God’s glory.

Womanism, Intersectionality, and Biblical Justice
By Mitzi J. Smith

Racism, sexism, and classism are interlocking forms of oppression for black women and other women of color. Mitzi Smith explains to readers how a womanist perspective unapologetically prioritizes black women’s experiences, voices, traditions, artifacts, and concerns as legitimate sources of dialogue and knowledge.

  1. J. “April Has Been International Black Women’s History Month, and It’s About Time We Celebrate It Right.” Medium. April 26, 2020. https://medium.com/the-sunflower-girl-collective/april-is-international-black-womens-history-month-and-it-s-about-time-8cb5573d3036.
  2. Battle, Sha. “Mission.” Black Women’s History Month. Accessed April 21, 2025. https://blackwomenshistorymonth.com.