Review: Hood Feminism by Mikki Kendall

“No one can live up to the standards set by racist stereotypes like this that position Black women as so strong they don’t need help, protection, care, or concern. Such stereotypes leave little to no room for real Black women with real problems.”

If you’re someone who’s ever questioned the constraints of modern-day feminism, then you should read Hood Feminism by Mikki Kendall. As the title says this book is a deep dive into the movement and the women of colour, who have been left out of the discussion. This book was an encompassing collection of essays that discussed the state of feminism for Black women.

I’m often left in awe of modern-day feminism. To me, it always seems to be a farce, something only certain women can hang onto and be a part of. And instead of being inclusive, it separates by colour and economic class.

I’m often left in awe of modern-day feminism. To me, it always seems to be a farce, something only certain women can hang onto and be a part of. And instead of being inclusive, it separates by colour and economic class.
When we think of modern-day feminism, it is often put in a pretty little box of white women burning their bras and rejecting the patriarchy, but as Black women, we’ve always rejected these ideals because quite frankly they do not work for us. Feminism isn’t so simple for Black and Brown women, and I’ve never read another book that captures it as much as this one.

Kendall begins the book with a look at the first feminist she knew which was her grandmother. What follows is her journey through the world as an unapologetic and outspoken Black woman with so much to share. What I love most is that her journey isn’t always beautiful and that what makes it so beautiful and relevant to me.

One of the things I love the most is that Kendall takes a look at her life and some of the various issues she had to overcome, issues that are not ideally categorized as feminist issues, but she breaks them down to show us that they are.
This book is everything, filled with so much brilliance and moments of pure richness that had me nodding my head in agreement. Kendall articulated issues I’ve struggled with for years, issues that I could never quite get others to understand.

She held NOTHING back in this collection touching on ALL the issues that plague Black women in the hood and beyond.
“For years your privilege has been an enemy to my rights”

Have you read this one? What were your thoughts? Let me know in the comments.