When I saw an email from a fellow Northwestern/Medill alumna about her latest project, something caught my eye.
Anthonia Akitunde started something special back in May 2012: A community devoted to telling the stories of working moms of color. And now she’s raising money to support this project with an Indiegogo campaign.
“The can-women-have-it-all question has favored a very homogenous view of motherhood, one that often fails to include the voices of women of color who are dealing with the same issues of balancing their career goals with their desire to be great mothers and partners,” she said when I reached out to her. “Mater Mea is expanding the conversation by including these women’s voices and showing a more diverse and realistic view of working motherhood through stunning photography and compelling writing.”
How could I help but echo Anthonia’s enthusiasm with a contribution and a shoutout on this beloved blog?
So first, I suggest you watch this mater mea fundraising campaign video. Go ahead, I’ll wait.
Next, visit Mater Mea to see what Anthonia has accomplished so far.
Headquartered in New York City, matermea.com is an online magazine that profiles mothers of color. It strives to present a more realistic narrative of black motherhood and open up the ongoing “Can women have it all?” conversation to this underrepresented group.
The site uses stunning photography and sweeping profiles to celebrate mothers of color in fields spanning both the corporate and creative worlds. mater mea has profiled luminaries such as poet Staceyann Chin, performer Rhonda Ross (daughter of singer Diana Ross), artist Wangechi Mutu and Broadway star Alicia Hall Moran.
If you’re as much on board with telling the stories of working moms of color, please contribute to Mater Mea’s Indiegogo campaign. What an amazing opportunity to spread the good word and support our community.
You have until Feb. 20 to give.
I hope you will, and if this matters to you, share with your working mom friends.