A Seat on the Bus, A Seat at the Table

02/08/2023

A Seat on the Bus, A Seat at the Table

Joy in itself is an act of resistance.
Mary Elliott, Curator, National Museum of African American History and Culture

For Black History Month 2023, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History has chosen Black Resistance as its theme. Among the twelve writers in Exchange Press’ newest book Stories of Resistance: Learning from Black Women in Early Care and Education, Brandy D. James begins her story with her first day in preschool, including a teacher enabling another child to move seats because he said he was ‘not allowed to sit by her.’

As the half day progressed, I was met with some looks, grins, and remarks about my looks, mainly the color of my skin and my pink-framed glasses. As someone who believed she was going to have a great first day of preschool, I remember crying on the bus on the way home. All I wanted to do was tell my grandparents I never wanted to go back to that school.

James did go back, her courage repeatedly bolstered by her family and her bus driver Ms. Margaret.

Years later as I entered academia, these feelings of not being included had not changed. My voice was not allowed or appreciated at all conference tables, even though I had the same degrees and sometimes even more experience. I felt like the little Black girl all over again. I needed to find a Ms. Margaret.

She concludes,

Sometimes it is not about finding your space at the table but building your own table with like-minded individuals, and surrounding yourself with Ms. Margarets... I am proud of the little Black girl with the pink-framed glasses. She has taught me about myself and self-love and respect. She taught me how to have a wonderful first day sitting at any table.

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