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You First, Sis: Why Your Rest Is a Radical Act of Resistance

By: A Black Epidemiologist, Researcher, and Woman Who’s Tired — But Not Defeated

In this season of uncertainty — politically, socially, and emotionally — I’ve found myself returning to a basic but urgent truth:

You cannot pour from an empty cup.

As a Black woman, and as an epidemiologist working at the intersection of data, policy, and community health, I see the ripple effects of burnout everywhere. It’s not just fatigue — it’s systemic. Our bodies carry the weight of generations of fight. Our minds are stretched across work deadlines, health disparities, police brutality headlines, voting restrictions, maternal mortality statistics, and the endless news cycle that continues to remind us how often this country forgets us.

But we cannot forget ourselves.

The Myth of Endless Resilience

We are often praised for being strong. For showing up. For “making a way out of no way.” But the truth is, our strength has been systemically exploited.

We are not machines. We are not infinite sources of energy. We are human — with nervous systems that need rest; hearts that deserve peace; and bodies that deserve protection.

And still, we fight. We advocate. We show up. But at what cost?

Science Says: Burnout Is Real

Burnout is not just about feeling tired. It’s chronic stress that’s left unaddressed — and it can erode your mental, emotional, and physical health. Research has shown that Black women in helping professions (education, public health, social work, healthcare) experience higher levels of burnout, compounded by systemic racism, microaggressions, and institutional neglect.

As a researcher, I know what the data says. As a Black woman, I feel what the data can’t capture.

Self-Care Is More Than a Buzzword

When I talk about self-care, I’m not talking about expensive candles or spa days (though yes, treat yourself when you can). I’m talking about preserving your mental clarity, protecting your peace, and choosing your joy. I’m talking about saying no, about disconnecting, about not explaining yourself when you rest.

Taking care of yourself is not selfish — it’s strategic.

Because here’s the thing: if you’re depleted, your ability to help others, speak truth to power, show up for your community, or even just survive — all diminish.

You first. Then them.

Especially Now: The Political Climate Demands It

From the rollback of reproductive rights to attacks on voting access, to rising maternal mortality rates among Black women, and the weaponization of public health misinformation — we are in a moment of crisis.

And yet, this is also a moment of clarity.

Your wellness is resistance. Your boundaries are activism. Your healing is political.

Because a system built to exploit you can’t stand if you stop allowing yourself to be consumed by it.

What Care Looks Like Right Now

And if you’re like me, then I want to take a moment to remind you:

You are not responsible for saving the world at the expense of your own soul.

Let your rest be the revolution.

We need you alive. We need you well. We need you whole.

You don’t have to earn rest. You deserve it simply because you are here.

And when you’re ready, we’ll rise — together.