Feminism Quote by M. Jacqui Alexander
““We are not born women of color. We become women of color. In order to become women of color, we would need to become fluent in each others’ histories, to resist and unlearn an impulse to claim first oppression, most-devastating oppression, one-of-a-kind oppression, defying comparison oppression. We would have to unlearn an impulse that allows mythologies about each other to replace knowing about one another. We would need to cultivate a way of knowing in which we direct our social, cultural, psychic, and spiritually marked attention on each other. We cannot afford to cease yearning for each others’ company.””
About This Quote
Identity as women of color is socially constructed; solidarity requires learning each other's histories and unlearning oppressive myths.
In simple terms: Being a woman of color is learned, not born; requires shared history.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate mutual understanding across differences.
Themes
identity
solidarity
intersectionality
learning
unlearning
oppression
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
Feminism:1
Oppression:1
Women-of-color:1
Born Women:0
Color Women:0
Oppression Unlearn:1
Comparison Oppression:1
When to use this quote
- education
- activism
- community building
- dialogue
Key Concepts
social construction
cultural competence
critical theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance collective narratives with personal stories?
- What steps foster genuine cross‑cultural learning?
A Different Perspective
Emphasis on shared histories may overlook individual experiences.
