I’m a Black Woman in America and I’m Afraid of Raising a Black Child.

Many women dream about the day they bring a beautiful bundle of love into this world, but I, on the other hand, feel nothing but extreme anxiety.

Being black in America takes the joy away from some experiences.

You get butterflies from the initial thought, but when you start to deep dive into what it truly means to have a child, you then think about your child having to endure the craziness that I have and my ancestors.

Is it worth it?

I have to think about the conversations that I’ll have with my child, and they’re a mere thought. Not even a cell exists, and I’m already concerned about his or her safety, self-esteem, and worth.

Being black in America scares most black women when they hear the words, “ You’re pregnant!” especially if it’s a boy. To think that you spend nine months growing, falling in love, and preparing for your child to come, and during that time, you’re also preparing yourself for what it means to raise a black child.

I have extreme anxiety, and I am afraid for my child’s future. We tell ourselves that it will get better, and it has. I long for the day when my child can walk down the street to get candy and not be murdered because the color of their skin threatens society.

I am a black woman, and I have anxiety about raising a black child in America.