Personal Narrative: I Am A Black Girl

One of the most destructive forces that is destroying young black people in America today is the common cultures wicked image of what an realistic black person is supposed to look like and how that person is supposed to act. African Americans have been struggling for equality since the birth of this land, and the war is very strong. Have you ever been in a situation where you were stereotyped against?
No, my name isn’t Sha’Quonda, Fri'chickenisha or any other common “ghetto black girl" name that you may have expected. I also do not come from a broken home. My family isn’t on welfare. I’m not promiscuous nether am I a dumb person. Even though I don't fit within society's standards for a black girl, I am a black girl and I am also delighted to be one. Why should I be upset with something that I can’t change? In the words of Denzel Washington, “I'm very proud to be black, but black is not all I am. That's my cultural historical background, my genetic makeup, but it's not all of who I am nor is

it the basis from which I answer every question”.
When I was younger I remember hearing about the trials and tribulations that the people of my race went through, but never did I stop to think that I would endure some of these things. While I was growing up, plenty of times I would have people stereotype me by putting me in the same category as “all black girls are ghetto”. I just don’t believe that I am like any of the “black girls” that they are comparing me to, which are loud, smart talking, and rolling your neck when speaking. I absolutely hate that people would even think of me that way. People should get to know you before they judge you and put you into a horrible category of that nature. I have witnessed many African Americans doing these things, even in family, but I just used these situations as a lesson learned. Now I can admit to having an attitude when it comes to certain things, but I mean who
doesn’t. I have self-respect, pride and standards and I know how a young lady is supposed to act and I try my best to do so. Many others may not have had the guidance that they needed growing up so they learn from their environment whether it be good or bad. I truly believe the words of Malcolm X when he said “"Don't be in such a hurry to condemn a person because he doesn't do, or think as you think. There was a time when you didn't know what you know today."
Many black women are often scorned for not wanting to mess up their relaxer at work, having weird hairstyles, clothing and different nails.

Black women have been the essence of style, originality all while receiving nothing but bad response from critics who secretly envy them. Natural hair tends to be another widespread trend. I think that some do the natural so they can connect with their African roots while I think others just like the look, or maybe it’s easier. No matter what grade of hair society has one marked term for black hair which is “nappy”. Besides pertaining to actions, the word ghetto is used to describe just about every aspect of a black girl's life. "Girl your hair look ghetto" and "You talk/sound ghetto" are two common phrases used around school. Colored hair, weaves, extensions, dyes and relaxers/perms are all things black girls have encountered. If your hair looks "too" nice, it's assumed that you're wearing weave or that you've gotten a fresh

relaxer.
I’m still making it despite all of these hurdles in the way of a “black girl” trying to be successful. If we let society tell it we don't like to work nor do we like change. Most of the time these stereotypes are wrong, but some of them are true. I have witnessed many people getting comfortable with where they are in life and if a change come about it’s a huge problem. Personally, I've learned to overlook when people say things that they shouldn't about me or my race. You just have to learn to use the negative as a way to strengthen yourself. Some people will continue to be stereotypical and ignorant to the facts.

My name is Erica Phillips, a 22 year old who is still learning what it means to be a young black women in America. Although I defy most black stereotypes, I am a black girl and I am proud. I’m still learning to ignore what people say about me and that I’m not going to let any of the stereotypes define me.