Black Leadership in Unsettling Times: Finding Joy and Establishing Boundaries

For this Black History Month, tune in to hear from Khadijah Cooper, the Education Director at Annex Teen Clinic and Laurel Hansen, MACC's Program Manager! Khadijah talks about being a Black woman leader while facing challenges in our communities in Minnesota. Right now, a lot of people are feeling fear and stress, she explains that oppression has always existed, but right now it feels more visible and intense. She explains that her main focus is caring for her team and making sure they feel safe and supported at work. The Annex Teen Clinic helps young people by offering sexual health care, teaching about healthy relationships and consent, and supporting parents and other adults. To feel joy when dealing with unrelenting circumstances, Khadijah also shares that she does stand-up comedy, and she believes laughter and joy help people stay strong during hard times. Khadijah’s story shows that strong leadership, community care, and moments of joy can help people stay hopeful and united even in the hardest times.