Separate, but equal originated in the Plessy v. Ferguson case in 1896, which cemented segregation for years to come. The idea seems idyllic at face value, it makes whiteness comfortable and still allows BIPOC to engage. The question to be asked was ‘who determines what is equal?’ Segregation (according to whiteness) ended in 1964.
But it didn’t really end did it?
When researching for my latest IG post I noticed just how many Black women were the FIRST period and yet many times history reflects male accomplishments (even when regarding BIPOC achievement). It’s an odd dichotomy isn’t it? Women are so often the first, but rarely recognized as such.
We recognize them in our communities of women, but it is rare for their accomplishments to be recognized by men.
And frankly I am tired….
Of accepting that mentality.
Of accepting that because it’s recognized by some that it is enough.
Of accepting separate, but equal.
Women’s history month is filled with so many strong women, but so many were and are kept from the table of men. Separate just isn’t good enough anymore. Our own table isn’t good enough anymore.
I recall a time when I didn’t believe this and perhaps that makes me radical, but nothing ever changes if nothing ever changes including our thoughts.