Let That Ghetto Personality Go

In today's episode of the Divested Diary, I had the opportunity to delve into a topic close to my heart. As a black woman myself, I wanted to address the issue of the "ghetto personality" and its impact on our lives. Before you jump to conclusions, let me clarify that I am not here to perpetuate stereotypes or belittle anyone's experiences. Instead, I want to shed light on the importance of embracing proper English and communication skills for our own personal growth and success.

The origins of Ebonics, or African American Vernacular English, can be traced back to the era of slavery. It was a way for enslaved individuals to communicate in broken English as they yearned to read, write, and integrate into society. They sought equality and recognition, not by holding onto their African roots but by mastering English. This historical context is crucial to understanding the significance of language in our lives.

I want to clarify that I am not demonizing Ebonics or suggesting it is inherently wrong. It is a part of our cultural heritage; for some, it comes naturally. However, I personally do not speak Ebonics because it was not a part of my upbringing. Through adoption, I was fortunate to have parents who emphasized proper English pronunciation and grammar. They understood the importance of effective communication in navigating the world.

As black women, we face unique challenges in our careers. There comes a point when we outgrow entry-level jobs and crave intellectual stimulation. We desire conversations that resonate with our experiences and aspirations. However, when our grasp of the English language is limited, breaking free from the confines of low-paying jobs becomes difficult. We inadvertently limit our opportunities for growth and advancement.

I want to emphasize that this is not about conforming to societal expectations or assimilating into a white-dominated culture. It is about empowering ourselves and expanding our horizons. When we can effectively communicate and articulate our thoughts, we open doors to higher-paying positions and positions of influence. It is about creating a future where our past or our language does not limit us.

I understand that the "ghetto personality" can be entertaining and even celebrated in certain contexts. We enjoy watching comedy skits or listening to rap music that embraces this style. However, we must recognize that it has its limitations. Unless we plan to be niche rappers or entertainers for the rest of our lives, we must consider the long-term implications of holding onto this persona.

I want to challenge the notion that being educated or speaking proper English makes us less black. This harmful stereotype has held us back for far too long. We should not fear judgment or rejection from our own community for aspiring to be intelligent, well-spoken individuals. Our ancestors, like Harriet Tubman, fought for our freedom and equality. They envisioned a future where we could thrive intellectually and contribute meaningfully to society.

So, my fellow black women, let us embrace the power of language and communication. Let us shed the limitations of the "ghetto personality" and strive for excellence. It is time to break free from toxic cultural expectations and create a future where our voices are heard and respected. Together, we can redefine what being a successful black woman means, one conversation at a time.

Thank you for joining me on this journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Until next time, remember to let go of that ghetto personality and embrace the limitless possibilities that lie ahead.

Connect with Sharika:

Twitter: @SharikaSoal84

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