Fuck Feminism, Respectfully of Course

As Black women, we often find ourselves in challenging conversations about our identity, our rights, and our place in the movements that shape our world. Many people ask why I don’t identify with feminism, the answer is simple: feminism, particularly in its traditional form, was never designed with our black asses in mind. It has often served the interests of white women, leaving our unique struggles and experiences overshadowed.

Understanding the Disconnection

Over the past few years, it has become increasingly clear how different our experiences are. Events leading up to and following elections have illustrated just how divergent our needs and concerns can be. For instance, the way certain groups of white women voted in the 2016 election shocked many of us. They chose a leader who did not prioritize our collective rights, only to later rally under pink pussy hats in women’s marches, seemingly oblivious to the implications of their choices on our communities.

While these movements are positioned as collective efforts for women's rights, they often leave out the nuanced realities of black women's lives. We have never had the privilege to separate our race from our gender; for us, being black is always at the forefront of our identity. The privileges that many white women enjoy are not extended to our men, our families, or ourselves.

Enter Womanism

This is where womanism steps into the spotlight. Womanism doesn’t just acknowledge Black women; it places us at the center. It incorporates the family unit and emphasizes community, recognizing that our strength lies in our togetherness. Womanism calls for a holistic approach to social justice that addresses not only gender inequalities but also the systemic racism and economic disparities that plague our communities.

Unlike traditional feminism, which often emphasizes individualism, womanism champions interconnectedness and the unique cultural heritage of black women. It strives for a world where our voices are included and our experiences are validated. This movement allows us to embrace who we are without the pressure to conform to the ideals of a system that has frequently sidelined us.

Key Differences Between Womanism and Feminism

1.      Cultural Focus:

• Womanism centers black women and women of color, highlighting our specific challenges and cultural identities.

2.      Intersectionality:

• While feminism has begun to incorporate intersectionality, womanism was founded on it, understanding that race, gender, and class are intertwined in the experiences of Black women.

3.      Historical Context:

• Feminism has historical roots primarily in the suffrage movements for white women's rights, while womanism arose from the need for a more inclusive framework that acknowledges and celebrates black women's struggles.

4.      Community Orientation:

• Womanism emphasizes the importance of relationships and community, aligning with our collective experiences, whereas traditional feminism can often promote individual empowerment at the expense of communal support.

5.      Goals and Advocacy:

• While feminism broadly addresses gender equality, womanism focuses on racial justice and systemic issues affecting marginalized groups, advocating for a more comprehensive approach to social justice.

Finding Your Truth

I encourage you to explore the tenets of womanism. Take the time to reflect on where you find alignment in your values and experiences. You might still identify with feminism, but it’s crucial to understand the implications behind that identification.

It’s not about dictating what you should identify as, but rather offering a space for reflection. Look into womanism and see how it resonates with your journey. Embrace the power of being Black first, and understand that our struggles are interconnected, but that our movement toward empowerment should start from a foundation that truly represents us.

Empower your voice, honor your history, and choose a path that uplifts every facet of who you are. The fight for our rights and recognition is ongoing, but with the principles of womanism, we can create a space that includes us all.