Dark Continent Of Our Bodies: Black Feminism & Politics Of Respectability

Mapping Racisms

by E. Frances White

A spirited and provocative look at black feminism-its roots, its role, and its implications.

Genres: Feminism, Race, Nonfiction, Anti Racist, Social Justice, Theory, Womens

208 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2001

Reviews

[Leigh · Rating 4 out of 5]

An very useful book for mapping key texts and concerns of black feminism. But at times, White's discussions are too cursory.

[Beverlee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dark Continent of Our Bodies is a thorough analysis of Black Feminism and to a lesser degree sexuality. This is the first book I’ve read that is critical of beliefs that I thought were generally held to be true. For example, in chapter 3-Africa On My Mind- Dr. White discusses Black Nationalism which in some circles is seen as how African Americans should be. Men and women have defined roles in their family and community. I think White’s analysis digs deeper to expose it as a patriarchal organization, not realizing that women and men shouldn’t be limited by a tradition that may not belong to them.
This book has a wealth of information and definitely made me think and reread several times. It took 6 months (closer to 7 probably) for me to complete because the writing is definitely academic and that can take away some enjoyment.

[Jade · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read for class.
Super interesting read that deals with the intersections of black feminism, especially with class and sexuality. It is very revealing about the way black (and especially female and homosexual) narratives have been erased from many aspects of academia. It also exposes the racism that has been built into science. And overall, it interrogates the way the politics of respectability have created divisions within the black community.