What is misogynoir?

Definitions

Combining the words ‘misogyny’ and ‘black’ (‘noir’ in French), misogynoir is a word coined by black and queer feminist Moya Bailey to describe a specific form of misogyny directed at black women. It is defined as a hatred, aversion or prejudice towards them, in which race and gender play a concomitant role. This concept is part of the theory of intersectionality developed by Kimberlé Crenshaw, which analyses how different systems of oppression (racism, sexism, classism, etc.) intersect and reinforce each other.

In the case of misogynoir, black women are at the intersection of sexism and racism, which they experience simultaneously. This concept highlights the fact that black women are not just victims of separate forms of discrimination, but of a particular oppression that combines these two dimensions. Although misogynoir can be perpetrated by anyone, Moya Bailey initially defined it to describe the misogyny exercised by black men towards black women, due to the social norms and expectations internalised by the latter.

How does misogynoir manifest itself?

Moya Bailey believes that misogynoir is rooted in the way black women are perceived and treated, directly influencing the respect and attention they receive. Misogynoir manifests itself in a number of ways:

• The invisibilisation of black women: Whether in the media, within companies or in academic circles, black women are often absent from dominant representations. In the arts, they are under-represented and rarely rewarded for their talent.
• Stereotypes: Several clichés affect the way black women are perceived. The stereotype of the ‘strong black woman’ confines them to an image of extreme resilience, denying their vulnerability and traumas. On the other hand, their hypersexualisation is omnipresent, particularly in music and popular culture. These representations reinforce discriminatory dynamics and often justify differential treatment.
• Hypersexualisation and symbolic violence: In the entertainment industry, black women’s bodies are often fetishised and reduced to objects of desire, perpetuating dynamics of domination and exploitation. This also translates into concrete violence, such as online harassment, which disproportionately affects black women, particularly public figures. A study conducted by Amnesty International and Element AI in 2018 shows that black women are 84% more likely than white women to be quoted in offensive or problematic publications on the social network X (formerly Twitter).

Misogynoir in France

While the concept of misogynoir was developed in the United States, it also has a strong resonance in France. Several recent events illustrate how French society perpetuates this specific oppression, notably the controversies surrounding the French singers Aya Nakamura and Ebony Cham.

A survey revealed that 73% of French people believe that Aya Nakamura does not represent ‘French’ music, highlighting a double discrimination linked to her gender and origin. As a black woman, her success is often downplayed, and she is the target of virulent criticism. For example, her participation in the opening ceremony of the 2024 Olympic Games was fiercely criticised. 

Ebony Cham, a contestant in the latest season of Star Academy broadcast on TF1, has been the victim of racist and sexist insults on social networks, revealing specific intersectional violence. Her story illustrates how black women are frequently attacked for their mere presence in visible spaces.

How to combat misogynoir?

Several strategies can be put in place to combat misogyny effectively:

• Raise the profile and value of black women: It is essential to give them more space in the media, culture and decision-making spheres. Initiatives such as festivals celebrating black artists and Afrofeminist movements are part of this recognition work.
• Deconstructing stereotypes: Education plays a key role in challenging sexist and racist clichés and norms. Raising awareness of intersectionality among the younger generation helps to combat the reproduction of these discriminatory patterns.
• Supporting black women in their struggles: It is crucial to listen to and amplify the voices of black women in activist, academic and media circles. This also requires inclusive policies and concrete action to guarantee equal opportunities.

Conclusion

Misogynoir is a specific form of oppression that places black women at the intersection of racism and sexism. By understanding its manifestations and adopting measures to combat it, it is possible to foster a more egalitarian and inclusive society. Acknowledging the existence of misogynoir is the first step in combating it and enabling black women to develop in an environment where they are respected and valued for their true worth.

Translated by Gabriel Capitolo