An Instagram video posted by motivational speaker and workplace strategist Kendra J. is gaining traction online for its honest, unfiltered commentary on what it truly means to “be yourself” at work — especially as a Black woman.
The viral clip, which has already garnered thousands of views, opens with a sharp critique of the performative inclusivity often preached in corporate spaces.
“They say, ‘just be yourself at work’—until you do it with a Black scent, natural hair, and an opinion,” Kendra J. says in the video, immediately setting the tone for a message that is resonating deeply with viewers across social media.
Code-Switching, Tone Policing, and Corporate Survival
Kendra goes on to detail the emotional tightrope Black women often walk in professional settings — navigating microaggressions, tone policing, and unspoken rules about appearance and demeanor.
“If I’m assertive, I’m aggressive. If I set a boundary, I’m difficult. If I don’t smile, I’m unapproachable. God forbid I raise my voice — I’m the angry Black woman,” she says, calling out how expressions of confidence or self-advocacy are too often interpreted as threats.
Her message is not just an observation — it’s a declaration.
“We don’t get grace. We are the grace,” she says, a line that has since become a rallying cry in the comments section.
Authenticity Comes at a Cost
Kendra, who calls herself an “Accountability Partner for Black Women,” challenges the idea that “bringing your whole self to work” is a reality for all employees, particularly women of color.
“We show up measured, strategic, because we don’t get grace. It isn’t about shrinking — it’s about surviving. It’s about protecting our peace and our coins,” she asserts.
In corporate environments that often claim to support authenticity, Kendra argues, Black women are asked to code-switch or conform, not for comfort, but for job security and emotional safety.
“New Tables Are Being Built”
Rather than seeking permission to belong, Kendra J. offers a bold alternative vision — one that emphasizes empowerment and self-determination:
“Being yourself shouldn’t come at the cost of your livelihood. And trust, most of us aren’t code-switching for a seat at the table. New tables are being built, okay?”
The sentiment struck a chord with followers, many of whom commented with personal stories of navigating bias and resilience in corporate spaces.
A Voice for Professional Black Women
Kendra J., known for her work as a motivational speaker, DEI strategist, and advocate for Black women in leadership, has grown a significant following by naming the unspoken challenges many face in the workplace.
Her platform centers on accountability, empowerment, and building community around shared experiences — especially those often dismissed or ignored in traditional corporate narratives.
This latest post isn’t just a viral moment — it’s part of a larger movement to redefine professionalism, demand equity, and ensure Black women are heard, seen, and valued in every room they enter.
