We Dream in Black: Zaborah’s Insights from the Organizing Institute

Zaborah

We Dream in Black NC Organizer

Is this your first We Dream in Black Organizing Institute?  If not, which other ones did you attend? 

This is not my first Organizing Institute. I have attended 3 Organizing Institutes in the past: my first Organizing Institute was in 2019 in Houston – virtually in 2020, and in 2023 in person in Atlanta, Georgia.

How would you describe the energy and environment of the Organizing Institute to someone who has never been to one? How did you feel after leaving the institute?

The energy of the Organizing Institute is unmatched. I felt more energized and connected to the work and empowered to mobilize as many domestic workers as I could to our movement. We Dream in Black is transformative and I want other domestic workers to share in the experience. Together we experience what collective love, support, and strength look like when we show up for each other. 

When I leave the Organizing Institute I am rejuvenated and I have the sense of pride that I am a part of a larger movement that brings forth change for Black domestic workers. My cup is filled with hope for a brighter future and love for our community. Our collective power reminds me I not only found my people but I can bring others in to experience the fulfillment as well. 

Why are the institutes important for We Dream in Black to have?

We Dream in Black Organizing Institute is important because Black domestic workers center community building and development with each other. Members and staff on Zoom, instantly come to life right before our eyes. The world may try to beat us down, but when we come together to build each other up, we create a space that allows us to show up as our authentic selves and unapologetically Black. We support each other’s growth and lean on one another for strength and encouragement. We Dream in Black community is a whole vibe when we come together.

What do you want people to know about the Organizing Institute?

I want people to know that the We Dream in Black Organizing Institute is an event every Black domestic worker should experience. The strength of the  We Dream in Black family is special, encouraging, and uplifting.  I hope other Black domestic workers can experience our collective power in person as a part of a larger community getting into good trouble.

What do you hope to see the Organizing Institute become in the future?

I hope to see the Organizing Institute extend more spaces to each chapter so that more new members and former attendees can have the opportunity to come together to experience the collective energy and celebrate the important work we do every day. Ultimately, I hope the Organizing Institute continues in October as our annual celebration of the life and legacy of Dorthy Bolden.

We Dream in Black: We Dream in Black (WeDiB) is an initiative of the National Domestic Workers Alliance and is the organizing home that centers the voices and experiences of Black, Afro-Latinx, and Afro-descendant domestic workers.