10 Ways to End “Black Woman” Stereotypes [ SOURCE ]
January 6th, 2011 - By Dr. Phoenyx Austin
Every race has its stereotypes. And we’re all aware of the stereotypes directed at black women. There are stereotypes that depict us all as ghetto, loud, argumentative, bitter, etc… I don’t like to be stereotyped- especially negative stereotypes likes the ones I’ve listed above. That’s why, as a black woman, I’m very mindful of my words and actions, while refusing to play into “black woman” stereotypes. I’m still genuine to who I am, and I don’t try to serve as the PR representative for an entire race of people. But I also recognize that because of the culture black women live in, it’s wise for us to be fully aware of how and why other individuals form opinions about us. This way, we’ll be fully equipped to recognize, not play into, and even tear down any negative stereotypes when the spotlight is on us. My advice to all black women is this: Be mindful of the image you want to portray. Here are 10 ways to end “black woman” stereotypes.
Stereotype: Angry
How to end it: Smile- Black women are often stereotypes as being angry. And sometimes many of us do walk around with scowls on our faces. And this, for some people, confirms their suspicions about us being angry and bitter. But combating this myth doesn’t take much. In fact, one simple and highly effective way of dispelling this myth is by smiling. Smiling instantly makes you and the people around you more comfortable.
Stereotype: Argumentative
How to end it: Be Less Defensive- Yes, life can be unfair and black women are sometimes disrespected. Some Black women try to counteract this by overly aggressive with everyone they interact with. I don’t think it’s necessary- and there are better ways to handle people than by trying to dominate them. Furthermore, not everyone is out to take advantage of and/or disrespect. Don’t make it your life’s mission to “check” everyone that crosses your path.
Read the rest of the article here: 10 ways to avoid "black woman" stereptypes
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2 comments:
I can understand the words spoken, but I feel alot of it has to do with us in general. We, the men, need to understand what our women are going through, and have gone through. The compassion of man can help the emotional shut down's of our women. Keeping account of ourselves as men, we can overcome a lot of the problems our women face, just by being men. We all need to stand together a come out of our slave minds and be as we were, bright and productive people.
I think the best way to avoid "black women" stereotypes is to live your life in an authentic way, less consumed by dispelling stereotypes than living a life of thanks, compassion and love.
Tip-toeing through life trying to not to be a "stereotype" is not living. Be yourself. Make improvements where necessary, but only in areas where YOU are unhappy, unhealthy and/or unsuccessful. or causing your loved ones to be.
Live your life genuinely. The origin of stereotypes is fear.
Why would your choose to let fear control you?
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