Hood Feminism: Notes from the Women That a Movement Forgot by Mikki Kendall

Mikki Kendall’s essay collection Hood Feminism: Notes from the Women That a Movement Forgot examines the significant shortcomings of mainstream feminism when it comes to addressing the interests of women of color. Kendall’s collection is designed to center the experiences of those who are routinely overlooked and to celebrate the achievements of women of color despite systemic oppression and marginalization.

In Hood Feminism, Kendall begins by taking a critical look at white women’s use of the term “feminism” to describe the equality of the sexes. While acknowledging the extreme conditions of oppression and disadvantage under which women of color must work and function, Kendall offers a potent critique of feminism itself. Through an examination of the racial history of the movement and the issues which divide women of color from privileged whites, Kendall challenges the assumption that universal sisterhood exists among all women, even within feminist movements.

Kendall demonstrates the fact that mainstream feminism often fails to focus on the distinctive issues that disproportionately affect women of color, such as incarceration rates, education disparities, violence, and even access to basic necessities like food, housing and healthcare. In her analysis of the unique challenges faced by these women, Kendall meticulously examines the lack of attention given to them by the feminist movement, noting that women of color have been excluded from meaningful participation in the movement. As a result, the needs and concerns of women of color are often overlooked, leading to the continued marginalization of these women.

In addition to critiquing the shortcomings of mainstream feminism, Kendall offers innovative solutions to the challenges of intersectional feminist organizing, such as increased intersectionality within the movement and greater inclusion and representation of Black women worldwide. Kendall similarly provides counsel for those engaged in this work, demonstrating how best to listen to the voices of women of color, rather than imposing one’s own views upon them. This is done by emphasizing the importance of advocacy and working collaboratively with those already involved in the work.

Kendall’s collection of essays stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of allyship and feminist action within the greater Black liberation struggle, challenging those with privilege to use their resources and experience to shape positive, meaningful change. In Hood Feminism: Notes from the Women That a Movement Forgot, Mikki Kendall offers an invaluable resource, both in terms of illuminating the disparity between advantaged and disadvantaged women within the movement and also in providing ideas for necessary steps forward, so that feminism may become a successful tool in the fight for social justice.