Student Submission CUNY Hunter College Spring 2025

Joviann Seepersad 

Black Women in Digital Spaces  

May, 2025 

Through the process of creating a video essay on the effects of misogynoir in online spaces, I have gained a much deeper and more personal understanding of how systems of oppression operate digitally. While I had previously encountered the term “misogynoir,” this project required me to go beyond surface level definitions and examine the emotional, psychological, and social toll that Black women, especially dark-skinned, queer, or trans women endure while navigating the internet. Misogynoir is not just a matter of harmful words or rude comments. It is a structural problem coded into the algorithms, content moderation policies, and platform cultures that continually devalue Black femininity. One of the most profound realizations I had was just how normalized misogynoir is in digital environments. Whether it’s through meme culture, algorithmic bias, or the invisibility of Black women’s creativity, this form of oppression is often disguised as humor, “critique,” or accidental erasure. Through analyzing comment sections, viral videos, and platform policies, I saw how Black women are often penalized for their existence; banned for speaking truth, mocked for showing emotion, and dismissed when calling out injustice. What’s more, these reactions are amplified by online platforms that reward controversy, dehumanization, and speed over care, nuance, or equity. 

Emotionally, this project was not easy. There were moments of frustration, anger, and sadness. But there was also inspiration and hope. Researching the resilience of Black women and femmes in digital spaces, I was reminded that despite the hate and suppression, they continue to build community, create art, speak truth, and demand change. This tension between trauma and resistance became a central theme in the final project. Moving forward, I believe there are several actions we can take to challenge misogynoir online. First, social media platforms must be held accountable for their roles in amplifying harm. This includes rethinking how content is moderated and who makes those decisions. Second, education is key, more people need to understand what misogynoir looks like and how it differs from general sexism or racism. Schools, content creators, and organizations should work to amplify the voices of Black women and femme identifying individuals. Lastly, we need to support alternative platforms and movements led by Black femmes that center healing, safety, and creative freedom. Ultimately, this project not only taught me about digital oppression but it taught me about the power of digital resistance. Art, when combined with truth and intention, can shift narratives. And that shift is where transformation begins.