Mamas, Martyrs, and Jezebels - by Jan Boulware (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Mamas, Martyrs, and Jezebels: Myths, Legends, and Other Lies You've Been Told about Black Women revisits notions of Black womanhood to include the ways in which Black women's perceived strength can function as a dangerous denial of Black women's humanity. This collection addresses the stigma of this extraordinary endurance in professional and personal spaces, the Black church, in interpersonal partnerships, and within the justice arena, while also giving voice and value to Black women's experiences as the backbone of the Black family and community.

Contributors

Nafeesah Allen, Karma Alvey, Karen Anderson, Denise Nichole Andrews, Marissa Boglin, Asantewaa Boykin, Keisha Brissette, Ofelia Brooks, Olivia Brown, Dane A. Campbell, Esperanza Cintró n, Kenneth Dalrymple, Margot Dashiell, Joy Davis, Jeanine DeHoney, Pietra Dunmore, K E Garland, Janel George, c.r. glasgow, Yvette J. Green, LaCharmine Jefferson, Candid Johnson, Tatiana Johnson-Boria, Moriah Katz, Janice Liddell, DW McKinney, Jasminum McMullen, Marcelle Mentor, Danielle Monique, Aisha Nelson, Sean O' Connell, Chris Omni, Tina Bethea Ray, Margaret Scott, Shawna Shipley-Gates, Debra C. Smith, Porsha Stennis, Amiah Taylor, Annella Thomas, René e Westbrook, Sarah White, Allison Whittenberg, Alexis M. Wright

Abayomi Animashaun, Anthologies Editor
Elizabeth Brueggemann, Assistant Editor

Review Quotes

Mamas, Martyrs, and Jezebels: Myths, Legends, and Other Lies You've Been Told About Black Women masterfully unravels long-standing misconceptions surrounding black women by delving into the historical, cultural, and societal constructs that have shaped these narratives. With a powerful, insightful, and unapologetic tone, the authors challenge conventional wisdom while offering a fresh perspective on the rich tapestry of Black womanhood. The book's engaging writing styles and well-researched content make it an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics that have influenced the portrayal of Black women throughout history. By the end of this compelling journey, readers will find themselves questioning their preconceived notions and inspired to challenge the status quo. --Dr. Janie Lacy

This book of thoughtful offerings--essays, reflections, playlists, and interviews reflect with incredible depth, Black women's lived experiences. Here, the complexity of personhood, embodiment, intellectual life, and emotional and spiritual worlds, are taken up with the personal and collective "I." These authors have much to say, and in the tradition of canonical Black feminist edited collections, their words will reverberate for generations. --Dr. Bettina Judd