A life of peace, safety, and joy sounds amazing, right? Well, believe it or not, it’s often easier for Black women to experience these things in other countries. Whether it’s for a new career, adventure, or a better quality of life, many are intentionally choosing to settle down abroad.
According to Bloomberg, the pandemic and social unrest have fueled a wave of Black women leaving the United States in the past three years. Since 2020, online groups have blossomed, sharing relocation tips and hosting meetups. Check out resources like Blaxit Global, Traveling Black Women Network, and Black Americans Living Abroad – they offer everything from starter toolkits to free itineraries for traveling and living abroad.
For many Black women, achieving the American Dream in America feels like a fading promise. It’s a tough pill to swallow, especially when systemic racism, discrimination, and oppression weigh so heavily. But remember, this isn’t new.
Black Americans have been seeking refuge and opportunity abroad since the 20th century. Icons like James Baldwin, Richard Wright, and Nina Simone famously fled American soil, finding creative freedom in Europe. Maya Angelou also spent years in Ghana as a journalist and university administrator, contributing her talents on a global stage.
Beyond escaping racism, many seek creative growth, study abroad opportunities, personal fulfillment, safer environments for their families, and improved work-life balance. It’s about finding a space where they can truly thrive.
For Black women, overall mental and physical health is often at stake. Mental health, especially within our community, can manifest as physical ailments. Stress and racial trauma take a toll. I think many Black women don’t even realize they are depressed, but will express it as “body pain” – their bodies manifesting the emotional hurt. Too often, Black women have to fight for proper medical care. Other countries offer more positive lifestyles and easier access to affordable healthcare.
Sometimes, it’s simply wanderlust. A friend of mine, an attorney since we were in high school, realized she needed a change or risk never truly living. It wasn’t necessarily about leaving the United States forever, but a passion to experience the world. Quitting her job was the catalyst. She now lives in Mexico, splitting her time between Tulum and Playa Del Carmen – what a life!
Of course, living abroad isn’t completely free from racism and discrimination. Black Americans considering this move should be aware that they may encounter it. Like anywhere else, inequality exists within immigrant communities. In Australia, for instance, Indigenous Australians have historically been targets of racism and discrimination.
Like in America, being Black abroad can make some people uncomfortable simply by existing. Depending on your location, you might still face racial profiling, stares, or unwanted touching of your hair.
Social media paints a picture of a “soft life” abroad, but it’s more than aesthetics. It’s about mental space to explore creative interests, expand writing careers, strive for a better quality of life, safer neighborhoods, and benefits like slowing down, tending to mental health, and diving deep into self-care practices that truly bring joy. These are indicators of a healthier, fuller lifestyle.
Before moving abroad, the previously mentioned resources offer advice: take a mini-trial. Visit potential locations, stay outside hotels, interact with locals, experience the weather, and assess your finances. Once you’re sure, commit. Book the plane ticket, secure the job and apartment – the other pieces will fall into place.
