The Power of Self Definition in Feminism of the African...

It is generally believed that feminism originated in the West, for over time, it has assumed the role of ‘science’ (Mangena, 2003). As a science, western feminism insists that it should be adopted by women all over the globe and used to deal with their specific and foundational problems. However, women of the African diaspora have come to deny such universality and define their own struggle. Uprooted from their motherland and sent to lands in Latin America and the United States, Black women experience unique intersection of racism and sexism. Furthermore, it is through self-definition and assertion that women of the African diaspora come together to fight for freedom, justice, and equality. Whether through colonialism or feminism, White†¦show more content†¦African women have been depicted in western feminist circles as mute, rural beings with no mind of their own. As Ogundipe-Leslie pointed out, â€Å"Women of European descent are most prone to these ventriloquisms, frequently calling on African women to play the role of ventriloquists’ puppets, speaking to other people’s agendas† (Kolawole, 1997). Time after time, white women’s actions have illustrated that they do not wish to be a part of a feminist movement – they want to lead it (Hooks, 2000). After years of suppression, African women have grown tired of White women speaking for them. Furthermore, in order to be heard, Siga Jajne suggests that African women must force their viewpoint on existing discourse through â€Å"voice-throwing† (Kolawole, 1997). In the words of Audre Lorde, â€Å"the master’s tools will never demolish the masters house† (Lorde, 1984). Not only are African women criticizing western feminism, but they are formulating their own definitions according to their world view. Along the way, they are also enhancing cultural identity and debunking the image of Black women as victims (Kolawole, 1997). Everyone has spoken for Black women, which makes it even more difficult for them to speak for themselves (Collins, 2009). In response, some women remain silent. Nellie McKay sheds some light this, â€Å"In all of their lives in America †¦ black women have felt torn between the loyalties that bind them to raceShow MoreRelatedConstructing My Cultural Identity6012 Words   |  25 Pagesanalysis of my life growing up in Jamaica where I attended colonial school, to making the transition to high school in the Canadian context. I examine the elements that have influenced my cultural/racial identity as a person of African ancestry living in the diaspora. I ask questions such as how has colonial education influenced my cultural identity and how I see myself? 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