I recently came across that ignorant post about the young woman receiving multiple degrees, but I was relieved to see many people in the comments addressing the issue and putting that dude in check. I too, have faced mockery and criticism, with people telling me, "you think you're all that." In truth, I acknowledge that I come from a privileged background, and my parents provided me with opportunities that some other Black people didn't have. I'm grateful for that, and I don't take it for granted. My upbringing also instilled in me the importance of not looking down on anyone.

Black women often face criticism whether they are formally educated or not. Some Black men even seem virulently offended by the success and education of Black women. Instead of being proud, they try to belittle us, contributing to the troubling trend of anti-intellectualism. The overall desired outcome of this behavior by some Black men is playing into the hands of those who want to keep people angry, fearful, and uneducated, thus making them easier to manipulate and control.

It's essential to recognize that not everyone is suited for a traditional four-year university education. Many people attend community colleges and acquire valuable skills in fields such as cosmetology, makeup artistry, mechanics, broadcasting, costume design, and IT, to name a few. This doesn't reflect on their so-called "lack of abilities or intelligence" but rather the difference in their pathway to success compared to those pursuing a 4 year degree and graduate degrees. Education is education regardless of how you get it.

Sadly, the achievements of Black women are often downplayed, even when they earn multiple degrees. It's a frustrating, perplexing and sometimes an infuriating situation. It really is the damnedest thing.