You receive an invite to a prestigious ceremony, it may be your graduation, the opening of parliament or your cousin’s white wedding. Whether the dress code is specified or not. In most cases we subconsciously make the decision to wear westernized clothing. We have been normalized to the idea that western clothing is the default attire that is fit for sure ceremonies. Although, this thought may seem trivial. There are some deeper implications embedded in this way of thinking. It is time to start unthinking and unlearning these so-called norms.
I’m often perplexed when the violent attacks of foreigners in South Africa are referred to as xenophobic attacks by some academics and journalist. There has been a clear indication that the attacks have only been directed towards black, African foreign nationals. Xenophobia is “the fear of that which is perceived to be foreign or strange or dislike of or prejudice against people from other countries.” So, although the observations still show xenophobic sentiments but it is more correct to use the term afrophobia. This distinction is quite significant. This pattern of afrophobic violence have deeper psychological implications.
For many years the term “Angry Black Woman” has been used whenever society wants to trivialize a Black woman’s experience. This term carries negative connotations.It functions as a social control mechanism because once we are seen to be outspoken, opinionated and confident, we are labelled as the “Angry Black Woman.” (more…)
In a 9000 worded letter to a friend who recently became a mother,Chimamanda, gives her an informative feminist manifesto in 15 suggestions on how to raise a child as a feminist. Her suggestions are not only limited to new mothers but something we can all relate to.
Binyavanga Wainaina makes the reader feel as though they are right by his side as he travels from Cape Town to his grandparents home in the far West of Uganda through his immaculate description of scenery. We become more familiar with geography than the characters in the short story. As he travels we begin to discover the difference in each country and town. All embodying their own distinct characteristics and personalities.
What’s the likelihood of a journalist in 2016 writing a story that’s mirrors Moipone Malefane’s Sunday Times article in March 2006?
Statistics say 1 in 3 women in South Africa will experience sexual violence in their life.
In March 2006 I was a 10 year child. Unaware of the realities of this world. Naïve. Political unaware. Social issues were of little interest to my young mind. Also in March 2006 Moipane Malefane, a journalist, wrote an article on the silencing of women in ANC exile camps amidst the Jacob Zuma’s rape trial.
Michelle Nkamankeng is a 7 year old, South African author that has made it to the global list of 10 top youngest writers list. She launched her book Waiting For The Waves earlier this month. The book is the first out of its series. The title was inspired by her fascination when she noticed how everyone on the beach shore was staring into the sea and patiently waiting on the waves. At this moment the seed was planted into her mind.
In order to survive in this cruel world you need to understand a few things. You are alone. In the sense that there is no real powerful system that is supporting you unconditionally. You will continuously be oppressed in all different directions. This will happen despite your educational background, your social standing or even your tax bracket. You do not have that kind of privilege that will set you entirely apart from your blackness.
In 2009 Beyoncé serenaded the President and First Lady at the inauguration ball for their first dance. Barack And Michelle danced away into history as Beyoncé sang Etta James’ 1960 At Last. Five years later in 2013 she sang the National Anthem at the inauguration in Washington, DC. It’s only fair that at the 2017 inauguration the Obamas return the favour and sing at Beyonce’s Presidential Inauguration.