On the first day of Austin, Texas’ South by Southwest (SXSW) festival, Higher Heights, ESSENCE and the Birthing Point, came together to create a panel that exuded Black Girl Magic. With CNN commentator Symone Sanders as the moderator, the panel consisted of Higher Heights founder Glynda Carr,  Essence’s Editorial Director of New and Politics Yesha Callahan, Fri Forjindam, leader of global business development, branding and communications for Mycotoo, Inc, Kalilah Wright, founder of Mess In A Bottle, and Melissa Bradley, co-founder of Sidecar Finance. The women discussed everything about Black women, the economy, politics, and culture. The conversation focused on what Black women need in order to have equal footing and opportunities just like their white counterparts. When it comes to investing in our own future, Bradley offered these sound words,”We have to be willing to take the call and make our own Underground Railroad of social capital.”

“We are coming not because we’re mediocre. We are coming because we have the skills and talent to lead. And you need to respect our leadership and how we show up. And some people we have to tell them to get out of our seat.” @glyndacarr #TruthTellers

— Tenicka Boyd (@TenickaBoyd) March 9, 2019

But one point that was constantly made is that Black women need to uplift each other, especially in corporate America. When you get a foot in the door, bring someone else along with you. And that’s a practice that needs to be more prevalent, in order for Black women to have a voice at the table. As we’re gearing up for the 2020 election, many eyes are on the numerous people who have thrown their hats into the ring at such an early stage in the game. But Carr noted that “The road to the White House has to stop at Black woman’s house”. Even though it’s still early in the election season, you have to make sure to hold candidates accountable for their past work. Have them explain the choices they’ve made throughout their careers. Don’t fall for the pandering. And make them work for your vote. “We’ve always had the power…we just need to realize it. You cant harness power you don’t know that you have,” Carr stated. “You can’t win without Black women in your coalition.” If you weren’t able to watch the live panel, click here to watch the recording.