As Teja Smith boarded a flight to Mexico for a vacation, the thought of organizing another Women’s March on Washington seemed unthinkable. The Los Angeles-based founder of Get Social, an advocacy-focused social media agency, reflected on the evolving political climate.

“It’s like the people have spoken, and this is what America looks like,” Smith said. “And there’s not too much more fighting that you’re going to be able to do without losing your own sanity.”

Smith’s sentiments echo the frustrations of many Black women following Donald Trump’s recent reelection victory. Trump’s return to office marks a pivotal moment, especially after a campaign marred by racially charged rhetoric and false claims, including allegations that Black migrants in Ohio were eating residents’ pets. Despite the controversies, Trump not only secured a second term but became the first Republican in two decades to win the popular vote.

Reassessing Engagement in Electoral Politics

For many politically active Black women, Trump’s victory over Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris was a stark reminder of America’s political landscape. Harris, who had the potential to become the first Black and South Asian woman president, inspired fervent support. Yet her loss has led many to reconsider their role in driving electoral politics and movement organizing.

“America is going to have to save herself,” said LaTosha Brown, co-founder of Black Voters Matter. Drawing a parallel to the North Star, Brown emphasized that while Black women have long been reliable strategists in social justice movements, the future demands a different approach.

“That’s not a herculean task that’s for us,” she said. “We don’t want that title. … I have no goals to be a martyr for a nation that cares nothing about me.”

Prioritizing Mental Health and Selective Engagement

A shift is underway among Black women, with many advocating for mental health, rest, and a more discerning approach to activism. This transformation is visible across social media, where calls for self-preservation have gained momentum.

AP VoteCast data underscores this frustration. The survey revealed that 6 in 10 Black women identified the future of democracy as the most critical factor influencing their vote—higher than any other demographic. Despite this, they are reassessing their role in supporting a political system that often overlooks their concerns.

Historically, Black women have been instrumental in movements for change, from suffrage and civil rights to Black Lives Matter. Yet, as Brown noted, the burdens of activism have taken a toll.

A Changing Role in America’s Political Landscape

While nearly 9 in 10 Black female voters supported Harris, the reelection of Trump was bolstered by increased support from young men of color and white women. The data also highlighted Black women’s distinct concerns, including racism, abortion rights, and economic issues, which often diverge from those of other demographic groups.

For decades, Black women have been the backbone of America’s democracy, consistently mobilizing for progress despite systemic barriers. However, Trump’s victory has sparked a reevaluation of that role, signaling a turning point in how Black women engage with political and social movements.

As Smith’s experience suggests, this moment of reflection may not signify retreat but rather a recalibration of priorities, allowing Black women to define their activism on their own terms.