Taraji P. Henson Speaks up About the Damage of the ‘Strong Black Woman’ Stereotype
Taraji P. Henson has shared her thoughts on the label of the “strong black woman”, reemphasizing the damage of stereotypes.
The phrase “strong black woman” is one we may assume to be purely empowering. But speaking with a panel of celebs and changemakers, Henson addressed how it can actually be more derogatory than complimentary. Explaining why we have to be cautious in its application, she expressed how “Strength is in being vulnerable, and that’s what I want my people to understand.”
Labels or stereotyes of any kind can be damaging. This was the message foregrounded by Henson as she clarified how subsequent to sayings like “Black girl magic,” Black women have “been ignored.” “It dehumanizes us. It dehumanizes our pain,” she said and it’s an issue perpetuated by the deaths of Black civilians since “We don’t magically rebound from pain. We hurt and suffer just like others.”
The Empire alum was speaking for Essence’s Festival’s Wellness House. Her conversation highlighted the importance of educating ourselves, not just on the racism tragically highlighted in recent weeks, but the ingrained discrimination that has long afflicted the Black community. Henson herself has been a particularly vocal loudspeaker of racial injustice, using social media platforms as a springboard for positive change.
The fight for racial justice can be more mentally exhausting than we may realize and while it’s a fight that needs continued support, make sure to check in with yourself and others during these trying times.
