Video Related to Stereotypes Disrupting Black Feminist Organizations

    The representation of Black women in media has been a source of controversy for years, with numerous scholars highlighting the frequent use of stereotyped portrayals that commonly promote negative and restricting narratives. In the video Mammy, Jezebel, and Sapphire Stereotyping Black Women in Media, The Listening Post analyzes the origins and effects of three prevalent stereotypes imposed on Black women in film and media, as well as how they further divide black feminist groups.

    The video first addresses the Mammy stereotype. The Mammy is frequently portrayed as a dedicated servant who takes care of a white family with tireless commitment and compassion. This stereotype emerged during slavery when black women were compelled to serve as domestic slaves for white slave masters.  An End to the Neglect of the Problems of the Negro Woman states, “ In the film, radio, and press, the Negro woman is not pictured in her real role as breadwinner, mother, and protector of the family, but as a traditional ‘mammy’ who puts the care of children and families of others above her own” (Jones, 1949).  Jones further states, “ This traditional stereotype of the Negro slave mother must be combatted and rejected as a device of the imperialists to perpetuate the white chauvinist ideology that Negro women are ‘backward,’ ‘inferior,’ and the ‘natural slaves’ of others” (Jones, 1949). The Mammy is frequently seen as overweight, dark-skinned, or wearing servant clothes, continuing the assumption that Black women are only useful in service positions, rather than as individuals with their own life goals.

    The second stereotype analyzed by The Listening Post is the Jezebel stereotype. The Jezebel is a character that is excessively sexual, promiscuous, and deceitful. This stereotype stems from the concept of the hypersexual Black woman, whose origins go back to the days of slavery when white slave owners degraded and objectified Black women. The Jezebel stereotype continues to exist in mainstream media, with Black women being represented as enticing and admired mainly for their bodies and sexuality, rather than their skills or knowledge.

    The last stereotype The Listening Post addresses is called the Sapphire. The Sapphire is seen as hostile, cruel, and emasculating. The Sapphire appears loud, belligerent, and dominant, supporting a belief that Black women are overwhelmingly tough and unsettling, which makes them less feminine or worthy of respect. This portrayal has had a major impact on Black women in society since they are frequently portrayed as enraged. Eloquent Rage: A Black Feminist Discovers Her Superpower states, “Even though I was only in my mid-twenties at the time, I had already experienced many years of white people doing that thing they do to articulate Black women— always asking us “Why are you so angry?” (Cooper, 2018). This misconception typically invalidates black women's feelings by depicting their anxieties or frustrations as illogical. 

    Overall, The Listening Post's video provides insight into the negative impact of these stereotypes on Black women's image in the media, as well as how they can divide black feminist groups. How We Get Free states, “There were racial divides at the socialist feminist conference. So it’s not like there was ever any place where we could go and it was just perfect” (Taylor, 2017). By promoting these narrow-minded and degrading representations, film and mass media continue to marginalize and erase Black women's experiences, as well as hinder their efforts for social change. This is why media and entertainment industries have to overcome these preconceptions and instead portray more diverse and genuine ideas of Black women that reflect their differences, courage, and empathy. In this way, we can progress toward a more inclusive and welcoming media space for black feminist groups that recognizes the diversity and depth of Black women's backgrounds and perspectives.

References: 

Cooper, Brittney C. Eloquent Rage: A Black Feminist Discovers Her Superpower. First edition. New York, St. Martin's Press, 2018.

Jones, Claudia, "An End to the Neglect of the Problems of the Negro Woman" (1949). PRISM: Political & Rights Issues & Social Movements. 467.

Taylor, Keeanga-Yamahtta. How We Get Free. [United States], Haymarket Books, 2017.