ABSTRACT

In 1920 W.E.B. Du Bois cited the damnation of women as linked to the devaluation of motherhood. This dilemma, he argues, had a crushing blow on Black women as they were forced into slavery. Black womanhood, portrayed as hypersexual by nature, became an enduring stereotype which did not coincide with the dignity of mother and wife. This portrayal continues to reinforce negative stereotypes of Black women in the media today. This book highlights how Black women have been negatively portrayed in the media, focusing on the export nature of media and its ability to convey notions of Blackness to the public. It argues that media such as rap music videos, television dramas, reality television shows, and newscasts create and affect expectations of Black women. Exploring the role that racism, misogyny and media play in the representation of Black womanhood, it provides a foundation for challenging contemporary media’s portrayal of Black women.

chapter |14 pages

Introduction

chapter |19 pages

From Sara Baartman to Michelle Obama

chapter |37 pages

From the Auction Block to Hip Hop

chapter |22 pages

The Reality of Reality TV

chapter |23 pages

I am Mom-in-Chief

chapter |13 pages

Redefining Black Womanhood

An Africana Womanist Approach

chapter |8 pages

Conclusion