Farewell Aunt Jemima by Lance


No, this isnt Aunt Jemima.  This is my great, great grandmother affectionately referred to as Doo Doo.  Slaves were freed on St Croix in 1848 yet the sugar plantations still thrived with the labor of former slaves.  I cant help but think about this image and that somehow it has become a symbol of oppression that must be cleansed from our memories.


Now this is the real, original Aunt Jemima.  Her name was Nancy Green and her lifetime contract to be the face of the brand provided the stage she used to become an advocate for the poor and for equal rights.  Others followed Ms Green in the role.

So, long before civil rights these were black women as spokespeople for a major brand.  Why was this successful marketing?  I dont think it was because it reminded people of slavery.  But today if you listen to some it was white exploitation of an image of oppression.

I saw "The Help."  It is a fact that for decades after slavery ended black women found work as domestic help.  The image of "mammy" remained a staple in many homes.  Hard working women earning an honest living.  Yes, racism existed, and these women weren't always treated well.

Today nannies and au pairs fill the roles these women filled for generations.  The need existed then as it exists now. So, this really isnt a rant, rather an expression of dismay over what is happening in our nation.  I think the women who serve this role deserve respect.

I've used the Aunt Jemima products my entire life.  A new name won't change that.  The image on the box today is no longer the image of my youth or Doo Doo.  It doesn't need to be there and Quaker is doing what they think is best for their corporate image.  Descendents have been vocal yet there opinion is being drowned out.

Some people must care more than the real Aunt Jemima family.

https://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/ny-aunt-jemima-family-members-fight-against-rebranding-20200622-frn67vaptvc4zizqf5eoqd5x4y-story.html

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