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28 Days Of Black Girls In Comics: Mikki Kendall
Celebrate #28DaysOfBlackGirlsInComics with author and comic book writer Mikki Kendall.
It’s day sixteen of #28DaysOfBlackGirlsInComics and it’s exciting to see people thrilled to see this type of content. Let’s get right into it!
Support Black girls in comics: Mikki Kendall
You might recognize Nikki Kendall as the author of Hood Feminism. It is a stunning and powerful hard look at the modern feminist movement from a Black intersectional lens. Thus it’s no surprise that Kendall is also a diversity consultant, often discussing intersectionality, policing, mental health, gender, sexual assault, and others. Hood Feminism draws upon Kendall’s personal struggles with hunger, violence, and hypersexualization. Check out her essays at TIME, the New York Times, the Washington Post, Ebony, Essence, NBC, and Bustle, among others.
Here is a quote by Gabrielle Union, actress and author of We’re Going to Need More Wine, about Hood Feminism:
“Mikki’s book is a rousing call to action for today’s feminists. It should be required reading for everyone.”
So now, if Hood Feminism hasn’t convinced you of Kendall’s expertise in contemporary issues, let’s venture into her graphic novel. Amazons, Abolitionists, and Activists, featuring a Black version of Rosie the Riveter on its cover, is an eye-catching graphic history of the struggle for women’s rights. Teaming up with illustrator A. D’Amico, Kendall weaves a fun and engaging showcase of key figures and events that shaped and advanced women’s rights. It highlights noteworthy women such as queens, warriors, freedom fighters, and spies. Additionally, the book covers liberal movements including civil rights, abolition, labor, LGBTQ liberation, and reproductive rights, among others. There’s something for everyone who envisions a more inclusive future, regardless of gender.
Here is a quote from N. K. Jemisin, fellow Black girl in comics as well as Hugo-Award-winning author:
“This is a beautifully drawn, hold-no-punches, surprisingly deep dive through the history of women’s rights around the world, which will entrance kids and adults alike.”
Kendall’s work exemplifies the importance of intersectional feminism, gender equity, LGBTQ rights, and so many other issues that need our attention. And so we want to encourage young and adult readers to support her work and really internalize the messages and lessons found within. With Black girls like Kendall doing the work she does to open our eyes and/or reinforce what we already know, we might become a better society.
