In this episode, Host Makayla Rivera alongside Archives Lead Gabrielle and TBR Director Jasmine Patrick explore the historical evolution of Black Americans from commodities under slavery to participants in capitalism, questioning whether true liberation can exist within a system built on exploitation. The group critiques the commodification of "Black Excellence" and the rise of respectability politics, highlighting how elitism and capitalism undermine collective uplift. Ultimately, the episode asks whether freedom lies in reforming the system or building a new one rooted in community and sisterhood. Contributions made by Communications Lead Gabrielle Dandridge

In this episode, host Makayla Rivera (co ‘28) and TBR director Jasmine Patrick (co ‘26) explore the complexities of sisterhood at Spelman College, beginning with a mental check-in post election season.

The two trace the origins and traditions of Spelman, examining how ideals of unity, legacy, and belonging have shaped the student experience. From the symbolism of first-year rituals to questions of imposter syndrome and inclusion, the conversation considers what sisterhood truly means in both historical and contemporary contexts.

The episode concludes with a reflection on how authentic, sustainable sisterhood can be cultivated within TBR and across the wider Spelman community.

Join Haven Gilcrist and Blair Martin from the Archives team in reflecting upon the stories of pregnant and parenting students and their journey through Spelman College.