Has the racist discourse of the 'strong black woman' made some men lazy?

Historically black woman have had to cope with a whole lot.

They’ve been worked, and have had to work harder than most, have raised more children than most (including those who are not their own) been subject to more emotional and psychological abuse than most, and are often criticised/scrutinised more than most.
I would argue that no one could really survive that without the strength, courage, and dignity required not only handle the situations that come along, but also to rise above it and function with good grace, love and hope . However, when faced with it, is there a choice?. Do, or die.

Despite the fact that many will argue that things have moved on a great deal with regards to racism, the notion of the ‘strong black woman’ has stuck. I would argue that Black women still have to work that bit harder than most, and at the moment, I feel are being used somewhat in the argument against the public sector cuts in a rather sad and shameless fashion. Yes the public sector cuts could potentially hit black women hardest, but black women have been subject to much discrimination in and out of the workplace for years. Where are the activists when you need them? Did I miss that march?

It is said that there are more black single mothers in the UK than any other nationality. I would argue that a point worth considering is that many of these men may have also bought into the racist belief/notion of the ‘strong black woman..so may think..why bother?... she can cope with it all!!’ despite being black themselves.
*Ahem..just because she can..doesn’t mean she should have too!

When someone refers to a woman in that way it’s almost as if the implication is that she is very masculine,( part man part machine) not feminine, and not therefore deserving of the level of care, respect, and support, that another woman may receive. (This is not a feminist argument... please stay on point with me here)

Whilst I think that black women are incredible and often exhibit the highest level of fortitude, that should not be an excuse to alter your behavior to such an extent that your actions are a stark contrast to your actions towards any other non black female.
What’s racist is not that the woman is strong.. it’s what that concept triggers in your mind, which is then played out in your actions.
The main trigger being because she is black- and strong.

One of the reasons Ridley road market makes me sad is that whenever I visit I’m surrounded by elder black women, pulling what looks like the heaviest shopping trolleys on their own, looking for a bargain or two to feed their families. Where are the fetchin’ men???
I see some outside a bookie (betting shop) or two, some even have the gaul to try and chat me up ( you know some eye cuttin’ may be required on those occasions..)

But you know what… if they’re still 'above ground'... they should be alongside their women, carrying that heavy load right by her side. As any decent man knows.
No wonder some of these women suffer the kinds of ailments they are subject to.. high blood pressure being a biggy.
We need to change that. We can change that. We can actually change that right now. Guys.. why not make your lady a cup of tea!! Take the kids to the park and give her a break!!
In short, a woman, is a woman, is a woman… treat her right
She’ll be your..hmmm... ‘rock’..lol:)
Happy SMSx

*Don’t worry men, I’ll write something nice for you as alwaysx