Meet Zyahna Bryant: NowThis Next 2021 Honoree

Zyahna Bryant talks exclusively to NowThis about the importance of racial justice, inclusivity and representation.

Credit: Zyahna Bryant
Credit: Zyahna Bryant

Throughout history, there have always been trailblazers and creatives from every generation who have led the world to the precipice of historical change through grassroots organization, self-expression, reclamation, and so much more. Youth have always been the leaders of our movements toward change, and here at NowThis, we give megaphones to the change-makers of the world.

Zyahna Bryant is among the 2021 class of honorees in the category of racial justice. Read Bryant's interview below.

What do you think is the biggest issue or challenge we face when it comes to racial justice right now?

The racial wealth gap/resource gap is the biggest challenge we are facing right now when it comes to racial justice, and that has intensified as we have been living through a global pandemic. The wealth and resource gaps affect every area of life and for Black and brown people, the list of disadvantages caused by the gap is endless.

What are the biggest things that people need to unlearn right now?

First, people need to unlearn the idea that “working harder” and pulling yourself up by your bootstraps is the main path to equity. It’s not. In fact, it is extremely classist and ableism to push the narrative that all people are in a position to overcome deep systemic and generational trauma that comes along with poverty and issues of racial violence.

Secondly, people need to unlearn the idea that mutual aid or even government aid is an underserved handout. The truth is that we will not be able to close the economic/opportunity/resource gap without the full redistribution of resources and a solid commitment to racial equity in all spaces.

How do you balance self-care with activism?

Self-care is an ongoing journey, but I lean on community care and firm boundaries to help me create space for those moments when I need to rest and recharge. I do understand that I cannot pour from an empty cup, and this year in particular has forced me to do a better job of prioritizing my personal wellness.

Who are some people that you've historically looked up to in this space?

I have long looked up to Black women like Fannie Lou Hamer, Ida B. Wells, Assata Shakur, Angela Davis, bell hooks, Ella Baker, and Alice Walker as Black women who have been the blueprint for the ways that we discuss social problems and organize to change them even today in 2021. These Black women have been the inspiration for the brand that I am building, Black Women Built This. Because I feel that it is always necessary to cite and amplify the work and experiences of the most marginalized people. Black women have always been at the forefront of our most important social movements. They deserve all of the flowers and rest.

What's one resource you'd recommend (i.e. a book, Instagram page, etc.) for those who want to educate themselves on racial justice, and not put the burden on BIPOC folks to educate them?

I would recommend following Black creators who talk about the issues that you care about. I follow and appreciate people like Amber Phillips (@amberabundance), Brittany Packnett Cunningham (@mspackyetti), and Rachel Cargle. They help me learn every day, and they put out very informative content that completes the mainstream conversations with the perspectives that are often overshadowed. I think it is important for non-Black people to pay Black women, Black people for their labor - and to support their content so that they can continue to foster important dialogue while curating their online communities.