Money is supposed to give us choices; the freedom to decide where we live, how we provide for our children, and what kind of future we build. However, for too many women, money becomes a tool of control rather than a means of independence. Financial abuse is one of the quietest forms of violence. You won’t see bruises or scars, but you’ll find fear written between the lines of bank statements, hidden credit cards, and years of lost confidence. At The SOFEI Group, we’ve met women who’ve been told, “You don’t need your own account,” or “Let me handle the money, you’ll only mess it up.” Those aren’t just words. They are barriers to freedom, and it is time to break the silence. What Financial Abuse Really Looks Like Financial abuse doesn’t always announce itself loudly. Sometimes, it hides behind love, protection, or the guise of “help.” But the signs are there. You’re not allowed to see the bills or log into the bank account. Your partner keeps you from working or takes your ...
We often have been encouraged to pursue success on our own. However, creating and sustaining wealth is a collective effort. Other ethnic groups thrive in America by creating communities that circulate their dollars, open businesses that hire and serve their own, and establish networks that fund future generations. Meanwhile, too many of us are still striving for personal wins in systems designed to reward collective strategy. It's high time we recognize the immense power of collaboration. Together, we can achieve far more than we could ever do alone. Let's unite and build supportive systems for a brighter, more prosperous future! Economic empowerment doesn't start with a grant or a job; it begins with community. When we support Black businesses, mentor our young sisters, and collaborate instead of compete, we're building a power that transcends generations. It's a journey we're all part of, and one we can all contribute to. It's time we shift our...