Early Discipline and Academic Foundation Anita Crusoe’s story begins in Fort Wayne, Indiana. She attended South Side High School, where her drive and ambition shone brightly. Graduating at just 16 years old, Anita completed enough credits to finish as a junior. By attending summer school for advanced courses, she intentionally accelerated her academic path while juggling a demanding schedule as a three-sport athlete in volleyball, basketball, and track. This early pattern of discipline,...

The United Hates of America: From the Perspective of a Black Woman I once wrote a paper titled "The United Hates of America." It wasn’t meant to shock—it was meant to tell the truth, a truth that’s as old as America itself. This harsh reality is difficult for some to accept, but for others—including myself—it’s a lived experience. The one issue all Americans seem to unite on is hate—historically and currently. Where’s the lie? As a Black woman in America, I see and feel this truth every day....

When it comes to the conversation on violence in America, Black women often go unmentioned, ignored, and unprotected. Despite the harsh reality that no group in this country has had to endure what we have, people are quick to center debates on “Black-on-Black crime.” This narrative is designed to deflect accountability and dismiss the structural inequalities we face. Here’s the truth: “Black-on-Black crime” is a myth designed to silence and shame Black communities. Crime overwhelmingly occurs...