Imagine if you Googled yourself and horrible search results popped up on your screen, saying you are damaged goods, trash, and selfish. How would it shape your identity, impact your self-esteem or form others’ opinions about you? Well, that’s exactly what happened to me when I typed “Single Black Mom” into the search bar. When negative narratives flooded the page, I turned my anger into action and formed Single Mom Defined, a photo essay and video series, and writing workshops.
Fifty mothers wrote a more accurate definition of single parenting. More than 100 children described their moms using words like joyous, kind, phenomenal, and affectionate. When Single Mom Defined unveiled the exhibit, 500 people admitted they held negative perceptions about single mothers. After exiting the exhibit, 93% stated they now held positive attitudes toward single mothers. The exhibit inspired an online and in-person to elevate the voices of single mothers and redefine public perspectives.
Since then, Single Mom Defined has continued to expand our audiences, reaching more and more moms. Through a partnership with the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, we are hosting a series of writing workshops with award-winning author and speaker GG Renee. The first workshop trained moms to write articles for our website—stay tuned for the stories that emerged from that session! The second and third workshops will focus on writing as a tool for healing.
Words That Heal Writing Workshops
The Words That Heal Writing Workshops are based on the idea that the power of words can change the direction of our lives. Writing helps us sort through difficult feelings. You admit things you’re afraid to say out loud. And you find renewed purpose and beauty in the journey of our lives. This workshop series allows us to practice writing as a path to healing in several different ways.
On Sunday, February 27th at 11 a.m., we’ll transform memories into meaningful stories. On Sunday, March 27th at 11 a.m., we’ll write healing narratives for the future.
You don’t have to be a writer to attend! This is a great self-care activity, especially for those who want to journal more. Space is limited and registration is required. Click here to register for the live event on Zoom.
