Student Submission CUNY Hunter College Spring 2025

Reflective Essay

Before starting this project, I knew that Black women face hate and unfair treatment online, but I didn’t fully understand how deep rooted this hatred is. Over the semester and while working on the final project, I learned that misogynoir is more common than I had thought. I was shocked at by the long history of it. Misogynoir describes the unique kind of racism and sexism that Black women face, especially on the internet. What stood out to me most was how everyday things online can be harmful, even if people don’t mean them to be. For example, when non-Black people use African American Vernacular English (AAVE) or post funny reaction GIFs of Black women without thinking, it can be seen as turning Black women into jokes or stereotypes. This kind of “digital Blackface” makes it harder for people to properly respect Black women as their equals. It enables people even more.

I also learned how social media platforms make the problem worse. This is done by promoting harmful content, ignoring harassment, or not paying Black creators fairly. It made me realize that the problem isn’t just individual people being mean. It’s also about the way the internet is built. However, I tried to learn about ways that combat this systemic misogyny and racism. I also saw how Black women are using digital spaces to support each other and create powerful movements. For example, like #SayHerName and #BlackGirlMagic. Doing this project made me reflect on my own actions too. Whether I’m watching TikToks, reposting memes, or just scrolling, I want to be more mindful and intentional of how I show up online. We all have a role to play in fighting misogynoir.

Here are a few actions I believe are important:

• Call out racism and sexism when you see it online.
• Give credit to Black women for their work, ideas, and culture.
• Support safe digital spaces where Black women can speak freely.
• Push for change on platforms—like better moderation and fair pay for Black creators.