Valuing Diversity of Voice

Providing platforms for black women in Europe to share stories of success, ambition and challenges is important to Yaaya, as we believe that the intersectionality of racism and sexism contribute to a different set of experiences in the lives of black women. Black feminism gives voice to these experiences and perspectives, by highlighting how black women are positioned differently within the structures of power in comparison to white women, offering a different narrative to ‘traditional’ feminism which has often been criticised for its eurocentric and middle class bias.

So why is this relevant, and why should people other than black women even care about black feminism? Our answer is simple. If we are serious in our attempts to address racism, sexism and class based oppression in Europe, listening, valuing and embracing the diversity of voice from those who experience such forms of oppression, is one way to achieve such aims.

Yaaya thinks Janine Bradbury’s video response, 'We Are Feminists ', on black feminism is a brilliant illustration of the potential of black feminism to create a more inclusive European society. In her video, Janine draws on the positive impact black feminism has had in her life. She also illustrates how it can be used to promote a diverse student and staff body at the University of Sheffield, and provide a fairer representation of those in positions of power.

What does black feminism mean to you? Watch Janine speak about black feminism by The School of English at the University of Sheffield.

Video Source | The School of English at the University of Sheffield