About Us
Hattie B. BWIP
In 2018, inspired by the indomitable spirit of Hattie Barnett, the Hattie B. Black Women In Progress (BWIP) was revitalized. Hattie Barnett was not just a pillar of the Sierra Vista, Arizona African American community; she was its heartbeat. Her innate dedication to family seamlessly expanded into an unwavering commitment to community welfare. Through outreach initiatives, mentoring programs, and countless acts of service, Hattie sculpted a legacy of positive impact and unity.
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Picking up the baton where the original Black Women In Progress left off, Acacia Barnett, Hattie's own granddaughter, breathed new life into the organization. As the proprietor of Acacia B. Brows & Beauty + Barnett Salon Suites, Acacia channeled her grandmother's pioneering spirit, ensuring that the mission of Black Women In Progress not only continued but thrived, fostering progressive change and deepening community ties for generations to come.
BLACK WOMEN IN PROGRESS
What Future Do We Want To Help Create
To enhance the accomplishments and achievements within the Black community by raising awareness and appreciation of the contributions of diverse cultures in order to facilitate compassion, education and understanding.
The Legacy of Black Women In Progress: A Journey Through Time
Roots in Resilience: The Birth of BWIP In the late '70s, Sierra Vista, AZ, saw the arrival of a group of resilient Black women. These trailblazers, primarily brought to the region through military relocations, found themselves in a vastly different demographic setting than they had been accustomed to. Recognizing the cultural chasm, they felt an ardent call to action. This urgency was the very seed from which Black Women In Progress (BWIP) sprouted.
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A Mission Embarked: Promoting Black Heritage From its inception, BWIP's objective was clear – bridge the cultural disconnect and celebrate the profundity and richness of Black heritage. It was more than just about creating a community; it was about instilling a sense of pride, unity, and understanding within Sierra Vista's diverse populace. To this end, the women of BWIP embarked on a journey to enlighten the community about Black culture, not through mere lectures, but through an immersive exploration of history, humanities, and the arts.
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A Tapestry of Events: Plays, History Bowls, and Festivals The women behind BWIP passionately believed in the power of art and education. They diligently curated plays by renowned Black playwrights, with productions like "Fences" becoming household discussions. These performances weren't just entertainments; they were narrations of Black experiences, struggles, joys, and hopes. Furthermore, events like the Black History Bowl became an annual staple, enlightening students and residents about the pivotal moments and figures in Black history. The Soul Festival, another of BWIP's landmark events, allowed attendees to revel in the flavors of authentic soul food, turning every bite into a lesson on Black culinary heritage.
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Building Bridges: BWIP’s Collaboration with Ft. Huachuca One of BWIP's defining alliances was with Ft. Huachuca. This military installation not only provided an audience but also actively supported the group by compensating them for their awe-inspiring plays. This collaboration was more than a mere association; it symbolized the harmonious fusion of military discipline and cultural advocacy.
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The Sisterhood that Bound Them Together Joining BWIP wasn't merely about signing up for a community group. It entailed aligning with a set of shared values and ideals. The selection process was meticulous, ensuring that every member resonated with the group's ethos. This rigorous approach laid the foundation for a bond that transcended mere friendship. For many members, who had relocated far from their homes and families, BWIP wasn't just an organization; it was family. They became sisters, leaning on each other during trying times and celebrating each other's successes.
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