“The Hatred of Black Women” by Professional Sista, Marsha McLean

​This is your Professional Sista, Marsha C McLean with a mental health moment.

Hatred is the highest form of dislike for something or someone. This intense emotion has marked the Black Woman since the conception of America. The attacks on our skin color, bodies and natural hair has a long tradition in western culture. And these "put downs" have entered into the psyche of some Black Men as they act upon this through deeds and actions. Although Black Women are the rib of the Black community, this oppressive behavior by our men can be seen in quotes, memes and text. And through it all, the Black Woman continues to love, support, encourage and sustain even when abused, criticized and judged harshly. Black Women, birth Black sons into this societal spiral that rejects other Black Women, giving way to perceptions that "white is right". These are just some of the subtle jabs Black Women endure. They often suffer in silence, ignoring the emotional pain that inevitably leads up to depression and anxiety. Research shows that Black Women dealing with mental illness will have more chronic and intense symptoms than their white counterparts. 

So, how do we overcome such hatred for Black Women? First we need to start with a true agape love. This unconditional, unmerited and undeniable love is only rooted with God. Second, stop generalizing the behaviors of Black Women because of one bad encounter. We are a monolithic race as well as gender. Embrace each woman individually and until she proves otherwise respect and honor her. Thirdly, learn to reason and compromise with your Black Sistas. Develop an appreciation for the dynamic women in your own family. This skill will assist you with valuing other amazing Black Women. By listening and not assuming, based on faulty information, we can truly overcome the stereotypes and labels that have plagued Black Women for far too long. You see, all Black Women are not angry. It is time to differentiate true anger and mental illness. 

At times, I question if Black Men are intimidated by successful Black Women? Is that the reason for cutting us down? Our skin, bodies and hair are backed by beauty and royalty. It's time for many Black Men to catch up. I ask our men to evaluate your treatment and beliefs of us. Your dealings with discrimination should not have you discriminating on us. So, to quote the powerful lyrics of our very own poet, Tupac, "Since we all came from a woman, got our name from a woman and our game from a woman, I wonder why we take from our women, do we hate our women? I think it's time to heal our women, be real to our women." Let's come to the table and reason together. If you enjoyed this mental health moment please follow me on IG @Professional_Sista, FB @Professional Sista and FB@ Revive Therapeutic Services, PLLC

~ Marsha C. McLean, LPC, LCAS, CCS