I am more aptly brought to the thought of men being in their bags about Megan Thee Stallion and Cardi B’s W.A.P, when it’s the norm to rap explicitly about non-consensual sexual acts with women (see Rocko’s U.O.E.N.O. featuring Rick Ross and Future). We must examine the intersection of prejudice towards women: where we are primarily seen as sexual beings, yet not valued for our humanity. The prejudice Black women specifically endure due to misogynoir, the specific combination of anti-Black and misogynistic treatment of Black women, where both race and gender play harmful roles in bias. Misogynoir was coined by Dr. Moya Bailey, a Queer Black Feminist, and Trudy of Gradient Lair, who deems herself a womanist. More than anything I find myself wanting to be vigilant in shining the light upon Black Men and if I am being fully honest, begging Black Men to extend humanity towards Black Women. A humanity which entails calling on your boys to do better when you know they are doing some fuck shit. Calling on yourself to do better, which maybe looks like seeking professional help to dismantle internalized white supremacy and toxic masculinity. We live in a world where we are constantly exposed to the death of our own. It’s not ok. And it’s ok that you’re not ok. Honestly, how could you be? I implore Black Men to believe Black Women on the first try. Why should we need to prove to you that we are telling the truth when we confess harm, violence, and mistreatment? Just like we believe you deserve to exist and not fall victim to police brutality, we, as Black Women, need you to believe in us. To love us. By Sinikiwe Dhliwayo
BLACK MEN BUILD
2020 37
