Invisible Woman: The Vanishing of Kierra Coles

No Tears For Black Girls

Invisible Woman: The Vanishing of Kierra Coles

Clean

Published on Jun 1, 2025, 2:51:01 AM
Total time: 00:08:02

Episode Description

"In this episode of No Tears For Black Girls, host Samantha Paul confronts the stark reality of how missing Black women are often overlooked in America’s media and criminal justice systems. Marking the debut of the new song “Invisible Woman” from the upcoming novella The Price of Silence by J.C. Reedburg, we revisit the 2018 disappearance of 26-year-old postal worker Kierra Coles. Three months pregnant and last seen on surveillance tape leaving her Chicago apartment, Kierra vanished without a trace, her personal belongings left behind and her case languishing for years.

Through conversations with Kierra’s mother, Karen Phillips, and analysis of law enforcement practices, we explore the systemic failures that led the Chicago Police Department to classify her case as low-risk and suspend active investigation after only one year. We examine the phenomenon known as “missing white woman syndrome,” supported by studies showing far greater media attention for white victims, and discuss the impact of this bias on families and communities. In October 2022, the FBI finally announced a $45,000 reward following relentless advocacy, but the question remains: why did it take four years of public pressure for this milestone to occur?

“Invisible Woman” by The Crown & Soul Collective—and the companion novella releasing this Juneteenth—shines a light on those whose disappearances are met with indifference. We encourage listeners to keep Kierra’s story alive by sharing her likeness, following “Find Kierra Coles” on social media, and contacting Chicago officials for case updates. Join us as we refuse to let another Black woman slip into silence."

More about No Tears For Black Girls
Tune in every Tuesday and Thursday as host Samantha Paul and acclaimed writer John Reedburg delve into the lesser-known true crime and missing persons cases involving black women. This podcast aims to expose the systemic issues that contribute to these cases being overlooked by the media. Stay informed by subscribing on your preferred podcast platform.