Protector: How Beyoncé Is Redefining What It Means to Be a Working Mother

Sold out stadiums across the nation. Perfected choreography. Extravagant costumes and thousands of fans screaming your name. For most, this sounds like an entertainer’s dream, but for Blue Ivy and Rumi Carter, it’s your standard “Take Your Daughters to Work Day.”  

Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter” tour kicked off last month in Los Angeles, featuring appearances from her daughters. The Internet aunties watch proudly as Blue and Rumi graced the stage while their mother sang “Protector,” an anthem for all mothers. For me, as a mother of two, I watched those clips in awe of how an accomplished performer like Beyoncé could be so intentional about centering her children in her art, thus centering motherhood.  

Fans have seen Beyoncé’s evolution as an artist, actress, wife, entrepreneur, and mother. Her business acumen and uncompromising tenacity to achieve greatness have elevated her to being one of the greatest entertainers of our generation. And even with her professional success, it is Beyoncé’s journey as a mother that intrigues me the most. Witnessing her intertwine her pursuit of artistic excellence with being a mama in front of thousands is a subtle reminder to all mothers that greatness does not have to be compromised in pursuit of your dreams. 

As mothers, we know that the concept of balance is a myth. There are some days when I can’t respond to work emails because I’m chaperoning my daughter’s field trip. There are other days when I may miss an event at her school, because I’m traveling to speak at a conference. During my brief journey through motherhood, I’ve gotten comfortable knowing that I can’t be perfect for everyone all the time.  

Since the beginning of time, mothers have taken their children to work, juggled obligations and other priorities, often with their children in tow. Sometimes, the burden of motherhood can feel limiting, as if you have to sacrifice your dreams to be a devoted parent. But Beyoncé on stage with her daughters is symbolic of the fruits of sacrifice and the commitment to continuing a legacy. That moment on stage – a snapshot of strength, beauty and resilience - is a reflection of every mother who has worked tirelessly to provide, while staying true to their passions and creating a succession path for their children.

Historically, American culture has fostered practices that have led mothers to feel guilty about pursuing their career ambitions. We’ve been told we can’t be CEOs and still be fully present parents, that we can’t succeed in one area of our lives without failing in another. That motherhood sometimes means sacrificing your goals to pour yourself into your children. Media (read: The “Manosphere”) also perpetuates narratives about a woman’s “place,” - how we’re undesirable if we actively pursue our dreams.  For many women, the duality of being a good mother while succeeding in their career can feel like an impossible task. 

But what Beyoncé is doing for the representation of motherhood is revolutionary. Yes, she's a symbol of hard work and excellence, but she’s also a fiercely protective and proud mother. Beyoncé is me and every mother I’ve ever known. I, too, pursue my passions and ambitions relentlessly, refusing to accept “no” or redirection. And while I’m not an international superstar, I’ve spent countless hours perfecting my craft - scouring peer-reviewed journals, books, and articles. Writing, researching, and grading in the midst of tantrums, kids’ doctor’s appointments, reading midday stories, and dance parties in the living room. This tender moment between Beyoncé and her daughters is a reminder that I can take my kids in pursuit of greatness. 

In June, my mother, my daughter, and I will be in the stands in Houston for Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter” tour date in our hometown. We’ll be three generations of women watching a living legend share her blueprint of a continuing legacy. I’m grateful to be surrounded by examples of mothers thriving in their passions, and I hope that my children can find comfort knowing that I didn’t have to sacrifice my dreams to be their protector.  

Dr. Brandale Mills Cox is a wife, mother, researcher and advocate for the Culture. You can follow her musings on Black culture, motherhood and the media at @drbrandale.