Ain't I A Woman: Black Women and Feminism

Today, intersectionality is targeted by conservative political messaging, as some believe it gives preferential treatment to marginalized groups. How does the contemporary conversation about intersectionality reflect the issues hooks describes?

What areas of culture are impacted by white patriarchal values? How has white patriarchy pervaded the experiences of Black men and Black women?

hooks argues that evidence of patriarchy can be found within slavery. What is this evidence? How did this pave the way for the further oppression of Black women during Reconstruction and after?

What is the relationship between the invisibility of Black women and intersectionality? What steps can be taken to both increase visibility and honor the experiences of Black women?

What role has education played in the oppression of Black women? How can education combat racism in a modern context?

hooks asserts that Black men viewed liberation as gaining access to participation in white male dominance and patriarchy. What historical evidence supports this argument? What forms of resistance have challenged both Black and white patriarchy?

The contributions of Black women have often been overlooked and ignored throughout history. In addition to the names hooks provides, describe Black women who have contributed to activism and the dismantling of racist and sexist structures. How have they challenged the systems of oppression within which they lived?

How does the devaluation of Black womanhood continue today? Consider current events, depictions of Black women in the media, or cultural perceptions of Black female artists and celebrities. How can individuals fight this devaluation?