SoftLifeMovement

Are Black Women Rejecting the Strong Black Women Trope and Adopting a Softer Image?
The Strong Black Woman trope is a harmful stereotype that portrays black women as being strong, independent, and self-sufficient, often at the expense of their own well-being. However, black women are increasingly rejecting this trope and adopting a softer image.

The SoftLife is a movement that originated in the Nigerian influencer community and centres around intentionally seeking comfort, peace, and rest. For black women who are divesting themselves of the harmful “strong Black woman” trope, the #softlife doesn’t simply mean having an abundance of wealth, luxury, and status, but also prioritizing self-care and mental health.

According to a report by ABC News, black women are working to dismantle the Strong Black Woman trope and break the stigma around mental health. Rooted in racist antebellum stereotypes, the trope of the perpetually “strong Black woman” harms Black women’s mental health in its inherent dismissal of the effect any hardship may have. The report highlights the work of Tricia Hersey, who launched a napping ministry to encourage Black women to rest 1.

These trends are particularly important for black women who have historically been underrepresented in many areas of society. By rejecting the Strong Black Woman trope and embracing the #SoftLife, black women are prioritizing their own well-being and mental health.