The Power In Our Stories

Why Female Stories Matter Now More Than Ever

By: Priyanka Jaisinghani

“Stories matter. Stories are a reflection of power.”

Last week we made history by officially inaugurating Vice President Kamala Haris: the first Women of Color and Woman to hold this esteemed position. This historic moment provides not just a new benchmark (and role model) for women, but it shapes a new narrative for women across the nation in how women’s stories can be told.

But why does this moment matter? Why do our stories and narratives matter?

Whether I’ve read the history books to the children’s books — so often I haven’t seen my face, my color, my background, or my voice fully represented.

Narratives are shaped by those who share the stories. Historically, these stories have often been told by men, and untold stories have silenced the experiences of women (and a multitude of other communities). The reality has been that women and girls don’t have the same opportunities to create their own stories or see them come to life. Their stories are simply not being told and their voices aren’t being heard.

Narratives Shape Beliefs:

Narratives shape opportunities and how groups see themselves as well as how others see them.

Stories and their narratives have the power to break barriers, build connections, unite, persuade, inspire, and educate. The words we read shape our perceptions, our perceptions form our realities, and they influence our choices and our actions.

When you think about your narrative, what influenced your belief and perceptions?