Full Description
Interview-based study of contemporary African American feminist men.
Ain't I a Feminist? presents the life stories of twenty African American men who identify themselves as feminists, centering on the turning points in their lives that shaped and strengthened their commitment to feminism, as well as the ways they practice feminism with women, children, and other men. In her analysis, Aaronette M. White highlights feminist fathering practices; how men establish egalitarian relationships with women; the variety of Black masculinities; and the interplay of race, gender, class, and sexuality politics in American society. Coming from a wide range of family backgrounds, ages, geographical locations, sexualities, and occupations, each man also shares what he experiences as the personal benefits of feminism, and how feminism contributes to his efforts towards social change. Focusing on the creative agency of Black men to redefine the assumptions and practices of manhood, the author also offers recommendations regarding the socialization of African American boys and the reeducation of African American men in the interest of strengthening their communities.
Contents
List of Tables
Preface Can Black Men Be Feminists? From Healthy Doubt to Critical Acceptance
Acknowledgments
Introduction The Patriarchal Predicament
1.Critical Black Feminist Intersections: Framing the Issues
2. Biographical Sketches: The Sons of Sojourner Truth
3. Pawns and Patriarchs: Challenging Assumptions About Power
4.Turning Points: The Need and Willingness to Change
5. Romantic Relationships with Feminist Women
6. Platonic Friendships with Feminist Women
7. Menas Friends, Brothers, and Lovers
8. Sweet Daddy: Nurturing Interactions with Children
9. Private Commitments, Public Actions
Conclusion Can Black Men Really Be Feminists?
Appendix A Methodological Intersections and Considerations
Appendix B InterviewCategories
Appendix C Historical and Contemporary Usage of the Terms "Feminist"and "Womanist"
Notes
References
Index
