The Black Woman: A Rose by Any Other Name

Jezebel…Mulatto…Mammy…Single Mother…Welfare Queen

Throughout history, Black women have been called many names that were meant to define what others saw in us, but only limited our own self worth. As a teenager, I didn’t have positive female role models who looked like me outside of my family, except for my all time fav Maya Angelou. All the influential women I was used to seeing were on television or singing on the radio. Even today, the NeNes and Nicki Minajs seem to get more recognition than the women who slaved to fight for our rights.

In the classroom, we always skimmed over the Black heroines, focusing on the usual Black History superstars like Martin Luther King, Jr and Frederick Douglas. (No disrespect, but remember behind every man is a strong woman) I found it disappointing how I knew more about the infamous stereotypes of Black women such as mammy and the irresistible mulatto, but hardly about Black women leaders in history. Yes this is important to understand, but when you focus on the negative you often fail to see the positive.

Today, we know the legacy of our history greats such as Rosa Parks, Harriett Tubman, and Sojourner Truth, but not enough emphasis is placed on their individual journeys. At Brownstone, we believe that there is power in telling your story and sharing your journey. It’s hard to understand one’s legacy without acknowledging both. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned that Black women have an amazing history of strength and determination, love and passion, resilience and faith. I am so proud to be a black woman.

In honor of Black History Month, Brownstone is highlighting the stories, journeys, and legacies of Black women of the past to the present. We want you to know that Black women are more than the roles we’re portrayed as on television. We are more than the over sexualized images seen in music videos. We are CEOs, first ladies, lawyers, doctors, etc. There are so many facets to who we are as women and it’s time for the world to know! This month, check out the women who are jumping over the barriers that have historically placed Black women in a box and are calling their own shots. We hope you’re inspired and learn something new :)

-- Tymika Morrison

Brownstone Team