Stop saying Representation Matters
Today I posted on Linkedin my thoughts on the upcoming Barbie Movie.
“I figured it out.
The reason I’m super pumped to take my kids to see The Barbie Movie this weekend is because of representation.
The phrase “Representation matters” kinda rubs me the wrong way when I hear some people say it because I don’t think you get it until you’re a Black Girl who becomes a Black Woman and finally starts to see people like Issa Rae as Barbie and you literally shed a tear.
Or when you go see Little Mermaid with Halle Bailey and cry at the end and during the entire movie because you see Black and Brown mermaids swimming with locs, with their natural hair.
You ask yourself wow, we really weren’t represented as kids and it kinda hurts 🥹
But now we’re healing.
And now I’m going to be just as excited as my kids if not more excited than my kids this weekend.
I also found a super cute bar in my city that has an ENTIRE BARBIE photo op so best believe I played Barbie and became my own Barbie.”
Let’s dive deeper into my Linkedin Post:
Representation Matters
The concept of representation can be a bit of a buzzword, but for many marginalized groups, it holds deep and personal meaning. As a Black girl who grew up not seeing herself or her culture represented in mainstream media, the lack of diversity in children's movies and toys was disheartening. But now, with the upcoming Barbie Movie featuring the talented Issa Rae as Barbie, and the memorable portrayal of Halle Bailey as the Little Mermaid, there's a profound shift happening.
Seeing Ourselves on the Big Screen
When I watched the trailer for The Barbie Movie and saw Issa Rae as the iconic doll, I couldn't contain my excitement. It was a moment of joy and validation. Finally, there was a Barbie who looked like me, who represented my experiences, and who shattered the traditional standards of beauty. Seeing Black and Brown mermaids with their natural hair in the Little Mermaid remake was equally moving, making me reflect on the lack of representation during my own childhood.
The Impact of Representation on Children
As a mother, it's essential for me to expose my children to diverse role models and characters. By doing so, I hope to instill in them a sense of inclusion, empathy, and respect for all individuals. When children see themselves represented positively in the media they consume, it boosts their self-esteem and allows them to dream bigger, knowing they can achieve anything regardless of their background.
Healing and Empowerment
Seeing characters who defy stereotypes and embrace their uniqueness brings about a sense of healing and empowerment. It helps us overcome the limiting beliefs we might have internalized due to the lack of representation during our own formative years. Embracing diversity in media can also help bridge gaps between different communities, fostering a more inclusive society for everyone.
Creating Our Own Narratives
Dressing up like Barbie allowed me to become my own version of the iconic doll, showing that we can create our narratives and redefine what it means to be represented.
So, this weekend, as I take my kids to see The Barbie Movie, it's not just about sharing a fun moment together. It's about celebrating the representation of diversity and breaking away from the limiting narratives that have prevailed for far too long. Let's embrace the power of representation, support diverse media, and create a world where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. Remember, we can all be our own Barbies and embrace our uniqueness with pride!
