Others – Black And Beautiful

The exploitation of Baartman and others took interest in the Black community, opening the discussion to challenge beauty standards among races and cultures alike. With new mainstream events like twerking arising, originating from West African dances known as , it has been a controversial debate within the community regarding its use and how often Black people are objectified for the dance move. The discussion of stereotypes regarding Black woman as promiscuous and voyeuristic have paved the way for progressive movements that take pride in Black beauty, regarding the Black is beautiful movement. Its nature continues to shape the discussion and made formed today in defending Black people and their body.

The movement aims to dispel the racist notion that ‘s natural features, such as skin color, facial features, and hair, are inherently . The movement also encouraged men and women to stop trying to eliminate African-identified traits by attempting to . was long thought to be the first person to coin the phrase “Black is beautiful”—during a speech in 1858—but historical records indicate that he never actually used the specific phrase on that day. Bill Allen, a freelance writer for advertising agencies, claimed he coined the phrase in the 1950s.

While the Black Is Beautiful movement started in the 1960s, the fight for equal rights and a positive perception of the body started much earlier in American history. This movement took form because the media and society as a whole had a negative perception of the African-American body as being only suitable for slave status. The Black Is Beautiful movement was based around a fight for an equal perception of the Black body to help undo all the negative ideas brought about by a history based in white supremacy.

Black literature had reached a turning point at this time and many of the writers of this era were releasing works that were themed with Black Beauty. For example, in ‘s iconic autobiography “” (1969), she explores her journey of self-discovery and acceptance of her own physical appearance, reclaiming her Blackness as beautiful. In her collection of essays titled “” (1984), discusses the intersections of race, gender, and identity. Her works empower Black women by highlighting their resilience, beauty, and the importance of self-expression. In “” by (1975), this groundbreaking choreopoem combines poetry, music, and dance to depict the lives of Black women. It celebrates their beauty, resilience, and unique experiences while addressing the challenges they face in a society that often devalues their beauty and worth.

In 1969, published Negro Es Bello II. The title translates from Spanish into “Black is beautiful.” The black panthers and Black face on the cover represent Black pride and power.