Systems of sexism and racism interact under capitalism. While the Black man’s definition of success is to separate himself from racism and gain the power of patriarchy, and the White woman’s success is defined by the overcoming of sexism; the Black woman (me) is left in the middle. The realisation that there was an interconnectedness between racism and sexism, and that capitalism was merely born from slavery, explained why I never saw myself in feminist movements. It also explained why even amongst Black men, crying out against racism, I still felt so alone.
I, as a Black woman, have multiple identities that are constantly being negotiated. When you can put theory and definitions to what you’re going through everyday, it becomes easier to help yourself. I, like so many other Black women, have realised I and we have every reason to be unhappy, and yet we still actively choose not to. And that sliver of happiness is so beautiful, so rich and pure, and it’s something I strive to capture in my artworks.
