The decision by Quaker Oats to discontinue the “Aunt Jemima” brand in response to the Black Lives Matter movement has sparked a heated debate. While many support this move, one voice stands out – Larnell Evans Sr., the great-grandson of “Aunt Jemima” herself. Evans strongly objects to this choice, as he believes it erases the history and suffering of the Black community.
As a Vietnam War veteran and Marine Corps member, Evans feels that this decision is an injustice to his family and their legacy. He argues that while Quaker Oats has profited from the painful images of slavery for years, they now seek to erase the history of his great-grandmother, a Black woman. For Evans, this is deeply hurtful.
The emblem of the “Aunt Jemima” brand depicts Nancy Green, a Black woman who was once enslaved. Quaker Oats, however, referred to her only as a “storyteller, cook, and missionary worker.” The brand name was first used when Green served pancakes at the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893. After the passing of Anna Short Harrington, a Quaker Oats representative decided to name her “Aunt Jemima” in 1935. Evans claims Harrington to be his great-grandmother.
Evans recounts how his great-grandmother dedicated 20 years of her life traveling across the United States and Canada, serving pancakes as Aunt Jemima for Quaker Oats. He asks us to consider the experience of a Black man sharing his family history that is now being threatened with erasure.
What exacerbates Evans’ frustration is that the “Aunt Jemima” brand capitalized on racial stereotypes and profited from them. He questions how many white individuals grew up seeing Aunt Jemima as a breakfast staple and how many white corporations benefited financially without sharing the profits. Evans strongly feels that history cannot simply be erased without considering the consequences and the rights of those affected.
This issue has sparked significant discussions, and it is essential to hear various perspectives. Understanding the history and legacy of the “Aunt Jemima” brand helps shed light on the complexities of this decision. As we navigate these conversations, it is crucial to support the Black Lives Matter movement by sharing this article on Facebook.
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