Womanism vs. Womanist

Attribute	Womanism	Womanist
Definition	A social theory based on the experiences and perspectives of Black women	A person who adheres to the principles of womanism
Founder	Alice Walker	N/A
Focus	Intersectionality of race, gender, and class	Empowerment and liberation of Black women
Origins	Emerged in the 1980s as a response to feminism	Derived from the term "womanism" coined by Alice Walker
Goals	Challenging systems of oppression and advocating for social justice	Promoting the well-being and rights of Black women

Definition

Womanism is a social theory that centers the experiences and perspectives of Black women. It was coined by author and activist Alice Walker in 1982. Womanism focuses on the unique struggles faced by Black women and seeks to uplift their voices and experiences. On the other hand, Womanist is a term used to describe individuals who adhere to the principles of womanism. Womanists are typically Black women who advocate for gender equality and social justice.

Focus

Womanism places a strong emphasis on the intersectionality of race, gender, and class. It recognizes that Black women face multiple forms of oppression and discrimination, and seeks to address these intersecting issues. Womanists work to dismantle systems of oppression that marginalize Black women and other marginalized groups. Womanist activism often centers around issues such as reproductive rights, economic justice, and representation in media and politics.

Community

Womanism fosters a sense of community among Black women and other marginalized groups. It encourages solidarity and mutual support among individuals who share similar experiences of oppression. Womanist communities provide a space for Black women to come together, share their stories, and work towards collective liberation. Womanists often engage in grassroots organizing and activism to create positive change in their communities.

Philosophy

Womanism is rooted in the belief that all individuals deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. It rejects the idea of hierarchy and domination, and instead promotes equality and justice for all. Womanists believe in the power of collective action and community organizing to bring about social change. They advocate for the rights and liberation of all marginalized groups, not just Black women.

Representation

Womanism seeks to challenge and redefine traditional notions of femininity and womanhood. It celebrates the diversity and complexity of Black women's experiences, and rejects narrow stereotypes and expectations. Womanists strive to create spaces where Black women can fully express themselves and be seen and heard. They work to amplify the voices of Black women in all areas of society, from politics to the arts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Womanism and Womanist are both important movements that seek to uplift and empower Black women. Womanism provides a framework for understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by Black women, while Womanist individuals put these principles into action through activism and advocacy. By centering the experiences and perspectives of Black women, Womanism and Womanist work towards creating a more just and equitable society for all.