MISSION
The Black Lady Tearoom (BLTR) is a student-led organization founded in 2020 at the University of Chicago, with the mission of providing a supportive space for Black women in graduate programs. Its primary goals include building a social network, hosting events, creating a space for open academic discussions, and fostering problem-solving among its members. The organization emphasizes self-care, relaxation, and camaraderie, aiming to create a lasting community that supports both academic and professional growth.
Key components of the organization include:
- Mission: Support Black women in graduate programs through networking, events, and a supportive community.
- Meetings: Regular on- and off-campus events to promote bonding and well-being.
- Long-term Goals: Ensure sustainability beyond the current generation of students and possibly expand to include a broader demographic.
- Leadership Structure:
- President: Represents BLTR and upholds its mission.
- Treasurer: Manages finances and spending.
- Communications Director: Oversees internal communications and meeting records.
- Membership Officer: Maintains membership lists and recruitment efforts.
- Subcommittees for event planning.
Membership is open to self-identified Black women in graduate programs, with no fees required. Financially, the organization currently relies on university funding, but it is exploring other funding sources like alumni support and donations
HISTORY
Black Lady Tearoom began at the height of the pandemic, when of the many misfortunes of this specific moment in time was this: we [did] not have hallways in which to side-eye, to give a nod, to wink, to shoot a knowing smile at girls of our hue and carriage. But worst of all; we [did] not have our black lady courtroom moment–that minute when we all enter a room and find that–for some reason; through some clerical error or some other benevolent miscalculation–we have a room all of our own. Since 2021, however, we’ve had many opportunities to meet in person, to laugh, and to be brilliant.
Inspired by the classic A Black Lady Sketch Show sketch “Courtroom Kiki” (Full Sketch) on HBO, we hope to build a room that showcases the complexities of Black womanhood in the professional world: our acumen and capabilities, and our humanity, laughter and joy. If you want to be a part of this; sign up here.
Leadership
Our President – Siyanda Mohutsiwa (Sociology PhD) – represents BLTR and upholds its mission.
Our Vice President – Ashley Jackson (Anthropology PhD) – maintains membership lists and recruitment efforts.
Our Communications Director – Caressa Franklin (Anthropology MA)- oversees internal communications.