In a world that demands constant action from Black people, where every moment often feels like a fight for survival, it is easy to overlook one crucial part of resistance: rest. We live in a society that pushes us to act immediately, to respond to injustice, to speak out against oppression, and to always be “on” in our activism. But in the rush to constantly move forward, there is an overlooked necessity: the right to pause, to rest, and to feel our feelings.
As Black people, our existence has often been tied to struggle. From the depths of slavery, through the Civil Rights Movement, and continuing with modern-day calls for racial justice, we have inherited a legacy of resistance. It’s no surprise, then, that there is a pervasive sense of urgency that permeates our everyday lives. The weight of racism, systemic inequality, and historical trauma can often feel like an endless battle, one that requires us to be in a constant state of alertness, action, and vigilance.
But here’s the truth: We don’t have to keep fighting all the time.
Our ancestors fought so that we could have opportunities, spaces, and moments to be free. Free not only from the chains of physical bondage but also from the invisible burdens that weigh on our mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Yet, in our fight for freedom and justice, we have inherited a dangerous narrative: The idea that we must constantly perform, act, and push forward to prove our worth and make progress. This narrative is exhausting. And it’s time we challenge it.
The Power of Rest
Rest is not just the absence of action; it is a radical act of self-care and self-preservation. To rest is to honor our humanity. It is a direct rejection of a society that thrives on our exhaustion and overwork. When we rest, we reclaim our autonomy, not just from the systems that oppress us but also from the internalized pressures to always be performing or producing. Rest allows us to heal, reflect, and renew. It reminds us that our value is not tied to constant productivity.
This isn’t to say that we should stop fighting for change. Activism is necessary, and the battle against racism, colonialism, and all forms of oppression continues. But the truth is, activism and care for oneself are not mutually exclusive. Resting and healing are necessary components of the struggle for justice. We can be powerful agents of change not because we are always fighting, but because we are fully present, restored, and ready to act when the time comes.
Feeling Our Feelings
Another essential part of this process is allowing ourselves to feel. Black people, particularly in the face of systemic injustice, are often told to “stay strong” or “keep going,” but this constant pressure to suppress emotions can take a heavy toll. We are told that our pain, anger, and grief are secondary to the needs of others. But in order to truly heal and lead, we must acknowledge our feelings.
Anger, sadness, frustration–these emotions are valid, and they are part of the human experience. Suppressing them or pushing them aside to keep up with the demands of society only leads to emotional burnout. Acknowledging and processing our feelings is an act of resistance. It is a way of affirming our full humanity in a world that often reduces us to our pain or trauma. By feeling deeply, we reclaim the right to be fully human, rather than simply surviving or being defined by the weight of our struggle.
Breaking the Cycle of Urgency
The urgency that so often accompanies the fight for justice is understandable–racism and inequality are pressing issues. However, we must be careful not to fall into a cycle of urgency that sacrifices our emotional and mental well-being. The movement for racial justice is ongoing, and there will always be work to do, but that work does not require us to be in a perpetual state of exhaustion. True change requires sustainable energy, which is only possible when we prioritize rest and emotional health.
When we give ourselves permission to rest and feel, we make space for creativity, new ideas, and long-term solutions. We give ourselves permission to think strategically, to plan, and to take the most effective actions rather than acting out of fatigue or desperation. This kind of mindful engagement in the struggle makes the work more effective and lessens the chance of burnout.
Rest is Revolutionary
In a world that is always demanding more from us, resting is a radical act. By taking care of our minds, bodies, and souls, we not only nurture our own well-being but also empower ourselves to fight for a better future. Rest allows us to reconnect with ourselves and each other, deepening our communities and building a foundation for sustainable activism. It reminds us that Black joy, peace, and love are forms of resistance too. We do not have to be in a constant state of motion to be powerful. Rest, reflection, and emotional honesty are powerful tools in the struggle for justice.
As we continue the work of dismantling the systems that oppress us, let us remember that we deserve rest, we deserve to feel, and we deserve to take care of ourselves along the way. The fight for justice does not require us to abandon our humanity; it is through embracing our humanity that we find the strength to keep going.
Rest is revolutionary.