Black Beauty: Are We Our Own Biggest Enemies?

The conversation about the Black community being its own biggest enemy is a complex and sensitive one. It's important to approach this topic with an understanding of the historical context, family dynamics, and the current issues surrounding beauty standards that have shaped the experiences of Black individuals and communities.

Historical Context:

The Black community has faced centuries of systemic oppression, from the transatlantic slave trade to the Jim Crow laws that enforced racial segregation. The Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s was a pivotal period that fought against these injustices. However, the legacy of slavery and segregation has had long-lasting effects, creating internal conflicts within the community. These conflicts often stem from the pressures to conform to societal norms that were historically set by those in power.

Family Dynamics:

Black families in America have undergone significant changes over time. Economic and cultural transformations have placed traditional family structures under strain, leading to a variety of family arrangements. The Moynihan Report of 1965 sparked controversy by suggesting that Black family structures were responsible for poverty, setting a precedent that blamed Black people for not living up to white middle-class ideals. This narrative has often overshadowed the systemic issues that contribute to family dynamics and has sometimes led to internalized stigma within the community.

Current Issues of Beauty Standards:

Beauty standards in the Black community have been heavily influenced by Eurocentric ideals, which prioritize lighter skin, straight hair, and thinner features. This has led to the use of toxic beauty products and practices that can harm physical health and self-esteem. The pressure to conform to these standards can create divisions within the community, as those who naturally possess these traits are often placed on a pedestal, while others may feel marginalized.

Social Media Platforms:

Platforms like Shaderoom and SpiritualWord on Instagram have become spaces where these issues are often highlighted. Unfortunately, they can also be places where women tear each other down instead of lifting each other up. The anonymity and reach of social media can exacerbate the spread of negative comments and judgments, often reflecting the internalized prejudices that stem from historical and societal pressures.

Moving Forward:

To combat these issues, it's crucial for the Black community to foster a culture of support and upliftment. Recognizing the beauty in diversity and the strength in unity can help counteract the negative impacts of historical oppression and societal beauty standards. Encouraging open dialogues, celebrating all forms of Black beauty, and supporting each other's successes can lead to a more empowered and cohesive community.

In conclusion, while there are challenges within the Black community, it's essential to remember that these are often the result of external pressures and historical injustices. By working together to address these issues and support one another, the community can overcome internal conflicts and continue to strive for equality and recognition of its diverse beauty and strength. 

Work Cited

Collins, Patricia Hill. Black Feminist Thought: Knowledge, Consciousness, and the Politics of Empowerment. Hyman, 1990.

Morgan, Joan. “Fury Like a Womanchild Scorned.” When Chickenheads Come Home to Roost: A Hip-hop Feminist Breaks It Down, Simon and Schuster, 2000, 

Taylor, Keeanga-Yamahtta, editor. How We Get Free: Black Feminism and the Combahee River Collective. Haymarket Books, 2017.