How Not to Be an Ally: Critical Race Theory, Afro-Pessimism, and White Women Who Pass as Black
DOI
10.1093/oso/9780197642535.003.0014
Abstract
Over the last decade, Black Lives Matter has transformed from a hashtag to a social movement. Created by three Black women, the movement highlights racial injustice and police brutality. Curiously, there have been cases of White individuals posing as Black who are at the forefront of social justice organizations. Why would a White person pass as Black? Research on Rachel Dolezal and broader reactions to her Black identity claim exist. However, recently exposed imposters Jessica Krug and Satchel Cole deserve focus. Through the lens of critical race theory and Afro-pessimism, “How Not to Be an Ally: Critical Race Theory, Afro-Pessimism, and White Women Who Pass as Black” examines the instances of White women and gender-nonconforming individuals who reverse pass as Black. This chapter argues that these individuals profit from presenting themselves as Black but also express antiblackness.
Document Type
Book Chapter
Publication Date
6-26-2024
Publisher Statement
© Oxford University Press 2024
Recommended Citation
Matthew Oware, How Not to Be an Ally In: Antiblackness and the Stories of Authentic Allies. Edited by: Norman Kim, Carolyn Coker Ross, Mazella Fuller and Charlynn Small, Oxford University Press. © Oxford University Press 2024. DOI: 10.1093/oso/9780197642535.003.0014
Comments
Please note that this book chapter is only available through Oxford University Press.