- Chapter 1 explains the roles of White abolitionists who intended to save t“unprotected” black girls from their circumstances. Were these abolitionists (or “white saviors”) trying to save black girls from the dangers of society or were they trying to protect them from the dangers of their blackness?
- On p.172, the author states, “Both writers had advised black girls to carefully monitor their outward appearance and behavior so they could take advantage of new opportunities. They believed that dressing and acting correctly would open doors for all blacks, and for the black girls in particular”. Do you think dressing and acting respectably opened doors for African American girls in the early 20th century? Do these acts of respectability open doors for black girls today?
- Chapter 2 discusses the roles of youthful black girls as having agency and being able to showcase their intelligence. At what point in their lives is this youthful innocence lost for black girls? Is this the time frame for non-black girls?
Sokhna’s Discussion Questions:
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