We Are Serving Melanin Collective
We’ve got a problem…
Black women and girls face systemic inequities and a profound lack of belonging. This is having a real effect on our lives, careers, and mental health. Black women are disproportionately underrepresented in leadership roles, with only 6% making it to the top. Black girls’ high school graduation rates lag at 54%, compared to 85% for White girls. Mental health challenges are more prevalent, affecting 20% versus 14% of White women. On top of all of this, safe and affirming spaces are limited. We’re here to change that.
We believe that every Black woman and BIPOC girl deserves to feel safe, empowered, celebrated, and whole. We understand that community is a powerful tool for healing, growth, and resilience. We know that Black and Brown joy is revolutionary and essential.
Our Mission
At Serving Melanin Collective, we're more than just an organization – we're a village. Our mission is to cultivate healing and belonging for Black women and BIPOC girls through the power of community. We create safe and empowering spaces, uplift voices, dismantle systemic barriers, and foster thriving villages that celebrate Black and Brown excellence. We champion the unique needs of our communities and center joy, creativity, and all facets of healing.
Addressing Critical Needs in Black & Brown Communities
The Serving Melanin Collective is proud to offer two unique programs designed to uplift and empower our community.
By fostering community, providing culturally relevant resources, and centering the voices and experiences of Black and Brown women and girls, we are committed to driving positive change and breaking down barriers to success.
Established in 2018, Melanin & Mimosas is a vibrant haven for Black women to foster wellness and connection through monthly gatherings, outdoor activities, creative workshops, and more. We recognize the unique stressors and systemic barriers Black women face and provide a space for healing, empowerment, and joy.
Established in 2024, Melanin & Milkshakes empowers Black and Brown girls in middle and high school to thrive by providing a safe, creative space to build confidence, develop essential skills, and overcome systemic challenges. We directly address the disproportionately high rates of IEP placements and lower graduation rates these girls experience, equipping them with tools for academic success and self-advocacy.
We envision a world where every Black woman and BIPOC girl feels loved, supported, and empowered to achieve her dreams. We strive to create communities that celebrate their unique brilliance and dismantle barriers to their success. We believe that when Black women and BIPOC girls thrive, all communities flourish.
Join Our Village
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