Black Women Are the Blueprint

The year is 2022, and everything black culture is on the rise. To the untrained eye, it would seem as if the world has recently begun to notice the magic bestowed upon black humans at birth. But if you know, you know that it’s quite the opposite. The world has been aware of our power and majesty. The majority is just used to siphoning, re-branding, and flat-out stealing it to market as their own.

Fortunately for us, the age of the internet has given a voice to the voiceless. What we used to see in print magazines and shake our heads about at home, we now see on our phone screens and can comment, “We did it first.” Or, more aptly, “we did it better.”  Finally, we have the opportunity to hold the powers that be accountable for the marginalization of black people and the misappropriation of black culture.

Before addressing what is, let’s clarify what isn’t – namely, how the ability to duplicate the black aura isn’t possible. What the world sees as an outward expression of high-beam glow is actually created within, rendering it impossible to reproduce through external means. So this piece isn’t to address anything taken from us – because it could never be taken – instead, it’s to create a conversation regarding the lack of respect paid to us as originators and inspiration for today’s version of mainstream beauty, culture, elegance, and sophistication. And to explore how we can cultivate that sense of respect and appreciation within ourselves.

Now what is, is the constant attempt by modern, European fashion and cultural icons to replicate the black aesthetic. Our hips, our lips, our hairstyles, our vernacular, our culture, our interests, and our essence are just a few of the areas that vultures have decided to add to their bland entrées as spices. And as generous queens, we are often flattered by such imitation, except when said imitation refuses to acknowledge its origins. Inspiration by the black woman is heavy, but praise to the black woman is light.

It could be that our created counterparts have expressed their failing to see beauty in us – over and over again. Or worse, that our inability to see the exquisiteness within ourselves is trending too. Whatever the reason, we certainly haven’t been extended the grace of having our splendor and magnificence validated by the masses. Instead, it’s been affixed to others and touted as innovative and breathtaking while dismissing the fact that it’s entirely engineered. I could go on, but then I’d be “angry.”

So, I’ll digress – after this: Black Woman, you are Source. Black Woman, you are Earth. Black Woman, you are powerful, majestic, beautiful, intelligent, creative, articulate, chic, sophisticated, lovely, resilient, and more. The world may not openly acknowledge, but please believe they are aware. And if you carry anything with you, do not let it be the pain of neglect at the hands of the world; let it be the joy of self-love at the heart of yourself.

With Love,

A Black Woman