I’d just like to give a shout out to the many strong Black women I’ve seen working as shelter staff members over the years. That’s far from any easy job. I’ve seen them confronted with everything from helping a person with a mental illness to maintaining building security to making sure that all other residents at the shelter play by the rules so that everyone has a safe and fair stay.
Congratulations to these shelter staff members. Though women are often smaller in stature than men and gentler in their approach to certain situations, they are often underestimated in their abilities to use excessive force.
During my days at the 2nd & D Street shelter I met three women like this. I really respected how they did things.
In her sixties, the late Ms. Kirby often displayed an iron fist and a firm attitude toward staff and clients alike, who were often out of control in her absence. They put on their best behavior when Ms. Kirby was present. That woman never took any mess from anyone. Rest in peace, Ms. Kirby.
Ms. Jones worked in a police department during her early years. She had a militant attitude with a sharp tongue that could stop people cold whenever they crossed the line. I saw her and another staff member drag two out-of-control women from a shelter because they refused to obey shelter rules. Ms. Jones never feared any of the clients, despite her age.
Then there was Ms. Howard. She never used force, but her firm resolve and logical approach would make you re-think your behavior. Everyone loves Ms. Howard.
I’ve seen some tough cookies over at the Patricia Handy Place for Women too. For instance, I’ve witnessed Ms. Ingram grab an out-of-control client and throw her out of the shelter. Don’t let the smoothed beauty of her personality fool you. Ms. Ingram doesn’t play games. I respect her, too.
Finally, I recently witnessed a security guard at the Pat Handy shelter forcefully remove a client for trespassing. The client was strong and fiercely resisted the guard’s attempt to get her out the door of the shelter. But the guard eventually managed to evict the woman without assistance from police.
Women are strong when it counts — stronger than men in a lot of situations. And they need to be.
