As a black woman, especially as a black woman in Chicago, you live in an existential dichotomy of visibility and representation on the one hand and exclusion and violence on the other.

This realization sinks in as I cross the intersection of Ida B. Wells Drive and Michigan Avenue, remembering Ms. Wells’s courageous reporting that brought the world to see the gruesome lynchings taking place across the country. I also remember how I and other Black women crossed the thresholds of spaces that were once denied to us.

Ida B. Wells noted, “Wrongs can be righted by shining the light of truth upon them.”

My company, APS & Associates, is a proud vendor to the Democratic National Convention (DNC), and in just a few days we will welcome the Democratic delegates and their allies to Chicago. Their shared goal is historic: They will come together to officially nominate Vice President Kamala Harris as the first Black woman on a national party ticket to serve as president—something that wasn’t on this consultant’s bingo card!

As black women in Chicago, we often live in a difficult situation. I have witnessed the contradiction while also experiencing this uncomfortable truth.

As we wallow in the excitement of being on the verge of Vice President Harris being elected just a few miles south of us, we are confronted with the horrific account of Sonya Massey’s final hours. We feel compelled to shed light on this injustice.

How can I experience such joy in seeing barriers broken down and progress made for Black women while simultaneously witnessing the systemic violence and exclusion of women in my community?

Vice President Harris shows that, despite all the obstacles and extreme public criticism, black women can reach the highest positions of power in this country. At the same time, Massey’s tragic death is a stark reminder that such successes cannot erase the larger, deep-rooted social problems facing black women.

The accomplishments of Chicago women – especially Chicago black women – are noble and numerous, and they will be showcased to the world as our visitors arrive at the DNC.

The city hosting the DNC was chosen not only as a backdrop, but as a physical reminder of the party’s proposed vision for our country. Our black bench runs deep.

In this city where Black women are at the forefront, Chicago has led the way on key issues in the upcoming election. Whether it’s criminal justice reform with District Attorney Kim Foxx and her bold push for a fairer criminal justice system by eliminating cash bail; education reform with the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) and its President Stacy Davis Gates leading the charge for better working conditions for our teachers; Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle reforming our healthcare system and balancing a $9 billion-plus budget for Cook County; or Melody Spann-Cooper, owner of Midway Broadcasting Corporation, who runs WVON 1690AM, the largest Black radio station in the country, serving as a trusted news source for Black Americans across the Midwest.

Led by three strong black women – Convention Chair Minyon Moore, Convention Host Committee Executive Director Christy George and Senior Convention Advisor Keiana Barrett – the DNC is off to a strong start, following Chicago’s lead.

These brave, strong black women are in these positions to protect and advocate for our community because Chicago TRUST in black women leadership.

Is the nation ready to follow this example?

The future first female president of the US presidency once said: “Anyone who claims to be a leader must speak like a leader. That means speaking with integrity and truth.”

My truth is that Black women have been at the forefront of leadership and change, leading our nation toward progress. We have proven time and time again that we are capable of driving meaningful change, and our leadership is critical to shaping a more just and equitable future for all.

Our nation must be confident that we can continue the progress we have made so far and continue to lead our country toward progress in 2024.