meet march’s hoochie of the month
A conversation with Serena on Sandra Bland, the Texas struggle, and the true meaning of solidarity.
What was your "I’ve had enough" moment?
"Sandra Bland. I remember the video of her interaction with the police in Waller going viral and how her life ended days after being detained for nothing. That radicalized me. The barriers I faced to get an abortion as a young person in Texas also radicalized me. When the system makes it that difficult to exercise autonomy over your own body, you realize the movement isn't a choice; it’s a necessity for survival."
SERENA SAYS
“Being a HOOCHIE to me is having a sense of solidarity with folks that cherish Blackness and Black women…
It’s about aiming to advocate for, support, share space with, and make a positive impact on Black folks within our community”
We have to talk about the essentials. What’s the one item you never leave the house without?
Serena: I never leave the house without my "Protect Black Women" fanny pack! It’s practical—it fits everything I need—but it also makes a statement every single time I wear it. It’s a walking reminder of what I stand for.
And what’s the anthem fueling your walk right now?
Serena: "Bigger in Texas" by MTS. It stays at the top of the playlist to keep me hyped.
If you could change one thing tomorrow?
"I would eliminate the Prison Industrial Complex as it is the main cause for racial injustice in this country."
What does a Tuesday look like in a world with true equity?
"It would look like centering my community and helping build thriving villages—but also some good REST."
"I know that getting into social justice work can seem scary due to having to confront your own biases, but once you start, your emotional intelligence will improve. Building community, educating yourself, and having hard conversations is a great way to incorporate advocacy into your daily life—which you may already be doing."