Here’s why you should connect:
Join the Collective on Discord
The Free To Be Discord Server is a welcoming space where members can engage in meaningful discussions and share experiences. It is moderated to ensure a respectful and safe environment for all participants.
We asked our community why they love Free to Be
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I feel truly accepted when it comes to fostering relationships in this group nothing is based on “looks and aesthetic” which is what I have experienced in the past. I enjoy the effort that people make to maintain friendships. I think in my past people used their friends as placeholders until they got into a romantic relationship and just like relationships, friendships require effort and time.
Kayla
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The main aspect that I like is that it’s a safe haven for black women. I love how we come together, judgement free, and always have a good time. I adore how we come to each other’s aid when we are in need of encouraging words and we can get together in smaller groups too.
Fa’Tima
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Because it actually is a community. Like in real life. I love that we actually do things together, that we’ve built relationships and confided in each other. It’s such a safe space. When I moved here I literally knew of no one & nothing, and I felt really discouraged and disconnected from my authentic self while I was waiting on the opportunity to build community again. I also have a chronic illness and only just got clearance to drive yesterday. People have picked me up on multiple occasions so I could be present with them in a space. I get the same feeling being here as I did when I dormed in college.
Shani
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To me, this space and community feel like a place where I don’t have to mask who I am. When I first thought about joining in 2023, I hadn’t built many authentic, long-lasting friendships since moving back to ATL. As an extrovert, I often felt like I was “too much” for people, which made connecting even harder. But being here helped me realize that I don’t need a million friends to have a true community. When I’m with yall, it’s like I’m with my sisters. I didn’t grow up my siblings so it’s so nice to just have girls who actually plan things and do things. I felt wanted in a space, was longing for community.
Jas
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How open/receptive everyone is to friendships! It’s so hard out here to make genuine connections. I’m so glad I found yall when I did. This group popped up at a rough time last summer and I’m grateful for the connections to have made in here.
Raeah
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How real everyone is like everyone is very much themselves it’s like Crayon box everyone is their own person and I think that’s why our gatherings always feel so warm and inviting yet so refreshing
Esther
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I think it's the togetherness that makes this group so special. While there have plenty of fun activities and group settings we had, what really solidified our closeness as a group was Ruby Falls. No one made me feel left out. Many of you checked on me and really just made me feel like I'm a part of this organization.
Bri
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Everyone is a yapper! I love when people I don’t know are willing to yap regardless if you know them or not. It eases my social anxiety & the conversations are always good vibes
LaTese
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I love that it's a safe space for Black Women. I joined after being in isolation for a long time and going through a healing journey. Every time I come around in person or virtually, it feels safe to just be myself.
Tenishia