Just when we at ninety-nine girlfriends thought we had the coolest collective giving circle name going, along comes I Be Black Girl (IBBG).
Ashlei(cq) Spivey, founder of the Omaha-based group, said the name was inspired by author/professor/feminist/activist bell hooks—and in particular, by hooks’ book “Be Boy Buzz,” which Spivey often reads to her 6-year-old son.
Spivey’s schedule is dizzying. She co-owns an Omaha restaurant, Best Burger. She works at a private foundation in Kansas City. She has a 6-year-old. At 33, she has a background in issues involving racial and gender justice. She lives those issues as well, as often she is the only Black woman in a leadership role in her workplace.
IBBG began organically, Spivey said in a telephone interview, as an effort to extend the national conversation about philanthropy, and to allow “everyday women to see themselves as philanthropists.” Voting members must identify as Black women or girls, and must contribute a minimum annual donation of $150.
The group has given out more than $100,000 since its launch in 2017, with grants ranging from $3500 to $7500. Awardees are not required to have 5013c nonprofit status, but must serve at least 75% Black women or girls or be led by Black women. Grant recipients also are encouraged to provide volunteer opportunities to IBBG members.
But handing out checks is only part of IBBG’s mission. The group promotes economic empowerment and entrepreneurship and encourages connections among Black women and girls. IBBG organizes events ranging from film discussions to entrepreneur think tanks to “Mama and Kid” meetups. IBBG information sessions target issues that specifically concern their membership, such as #CurlCrew, a move to end natural hair discrimination in Nebraska workplaces.
Along with educational forums and social gatherings, IBBG also offers “merch” ranging from T-shirts (in mom-and-kid sizes), tote bags, mugs and computer stickers.
“We’re the first of our kind to be so comprehensive,” Spivey said.
– Elizabeth Mehren