Isn’t it ironic

Recently I signed up for several SELF newsletters. I am always on the lookout for new articles to share with all of you. SELF checked many boxes when it came to what I enjoy reading and sharing. When I came across the above article I had to read and post it! But when I noticed the advertisement below I was shocked! The article mentions the Kardashians at great lengths and how they, “played a major role in normalizing and popularizing Blackfishing: the cultural appropriation when people alter their appearance with makeup, cosmetic surgery, filters, and digital editing to appear Black.” And how, “With this change in culture, the Black woman goes back to being objectified, hypersexualized, and having to deal with a disdain for their bodies that they have faced for centuries.” This article is EXCELLENT! I mean a must read. The issue I have is the SKIMS advertisement immediately below the article. WHY?! SERIOUSLY?! For me it counters the entire premise of the article and begs to question SELF’s  motives.

 

“The Kardashians are the most notable example of the aforementioned phenomenon, having been known for their curvy frames and aesthetics pulled straight from Black culture, only to exchange them for smaller and whiter models when it’s convenient or lucrative.”

Yvette Sojourner

President

Here’s what I’ve been reflecting on this week. As Haruki Murakam once said, “If you only read the books that everyone else is reading, you can only think what everyone else is thinking.” I believe this is applicable to everything we read.

 

 

READ

Nothing new and we should keep this discussion going. Home Appraised With a Black Owner: $472,000. With a White Owner: $750,000, The New York Times

Hubbs has a beard. Enough said. Beard care. Beard Oil vs. Beard Balm: Which Is Better for a Clean Look?, Byrdie

Interesting read. 6 of the Best Ways to Cultivate a Relationship That Lasts, Wit & Delight

Things to keep in mind when stepping back into working out. 7 Deadly Sins of Getting Back in Shape, Lifehacker

Oh, updated information. How Often Should You Work Out? Here’s What New Research Says, PopSugar

While we’re on the topic. Lift Weights, Eat More Protein, Especially if You’re Over 40, The New York Times

Did you hear about this? The USPS ‘Holiday Season’ Just Got Longer and More Expensive, lifehacker

LISTEN

As per ush, catching up on Jill Scott Presents: J.ill the Podcast

Came across this gem and had to share. My birthday is in September hence why this is my one of my favorites. The Song That Never Ends: Why Earth, Wind & Fire’s ‘September’ Sustains, NPR

I love their playlists! Our Top 10 Playlists Now Feature Hot New Music. Listen for Free, Sisters From AARP

WRITE

Food for thought. Lucy Sante on Writing with the Back Brain, LitHub

 

What I Do: I don’t have access or a subscription to various newspapers or magazines i.e. the New York Times. So, I checked with my local library. I’ve learned I have access to the New York Times free with my library card. Always check with your local library to see what offerings are available to you.

 

 

Read

The Good Life France Magazine

We Are Losing Black Girls, Jezebel

My Daughter’s White Doll, The Atlantic 

The Hidden Dangers of Child-Protective Services, Mother Jones

 

Listen

PARIS CHANSON

 

Write

Why Failure is Necessary for Creative Growth, Literary Hub

 

 

I’m just going to leave this right here: I don’t have a subscription to the New York Times. So, I check with my public library and learned I can access the New York Times free with my library card.

Read