Student Submission – Current Event Fall 2024 Virginia Commonwealth University

Misogynoir is a type of prejudice that targets Black women by combining racism, sexism, and often violence. A Kamala Harris chew toy is an example of this. One way that misogynoir works is by using violent and degrading images to make Black women seem less important and less human. Creating a chew toy that looks like Vice President Kamala Harris, who is a historical figure for being the first female, Black, and South Asian Vice President of the United States, takes away from her prestigious position and makes her an easy target for contempt and even ridicule. Not only is this item disrespectful, but it also reinforces damaging beliefs that Black women are less worthy of power and respect. The chew toy is a sign of aggression that shows how uncomfortable society is with Black women in leadership roles. It reinforces the idea that their success should be criticized or laughed at instead of praised.