Heroines, by definition, are women who are mentally strong, courageous and resilient. Their qualities and traits make them admirable and inspiring, which epitomise Black women.
Although “heroines” is an archaic word and “heroes” is the preferred term in modern times, “heroines” will be used for consistency.
The protagonists in comics, fairy tales, fantasy novels and films are admired for their courage in overcoming challenges. Battling hideous fiends, demons and dragons. In today’s world, however, their antagonists are not mythological monsters. But instead, it is insidious, systemic, structural and sexist racism, far more formidable beasts and a long suffering battle over hundreds of years.
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They must also combat the stereotypes of being strong, angry, aggressive and loud. Yet, as the caretakers that they are, they soothe, console, maintain peace and are natural fixers, givers, and survivors. As consummate guardians, they provide the family with a foundation of societal, emotional and moral stability. The stay at home mother who forgoes her career. Wives who give dedicated support, faith, and loyalty, magnanimously bestowed on their husbands. Therefore, affecting the adage ‘behind every successful man is a woman.’ All of which are daily acts of love.
In today’s everyday world, Black women are not always rich or famous. From humble beginnings, they are exemplary unsung heroines who modestly see themselves as custodians rather than the heroines they genuinely are.
Heroines of the past are Harriet Tubman, who led hundreds of enslaved people to freedom via the Underground Railroad in America; Ida B. Wells, a journalist and anti-lynching activist; and Mary Seacole, a Jamaican British nurse and healer who cared for soldiers during the Crimean War.
Modern-day examples include Rosa Parks, who refused to give up her seat on a bus, sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott. A significant factor in the eventual end of segregation. Michelle Obama, former US First Lady and global advocate for education and wellness. Baroness Doreen Lawrence, British Jamaican campaigner. The mother of Stephen Lawrence, a Black teenager murdered in a racist attack in South London. She promoted reforms of the police service and founded the Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust. However, there is also an illustrious list of unnamed women who diligently work in various fields such as education, health, social services and business.
Celebrating black women, songs with powerful lyrics and messages of empowerment, strength and praise by Black female artists, include ‘Respect’ by Aretha Franklin, ‘I Will Survive’ by Gloria Gaynor, ‘Superwoman’ by Alicia Keys, ‘More Than A Woman’ by Aaliyah and ‘Just Fine’ by Mary J. Blige.
As 50+ Black women today, like our ancestors and predecessors, carry the unrecognised legacy of being heroines. And as a living testament to the coming generation, demonstrate that hope, love, courage, and resilience are armour and that heroines are not born but made.
Who are your heroines? Let us know in the Comments Section.
