Dear Linda’s grandmother,
In the midst of systemic
oppression of black people in America, and specifically black women, you hold
power. You are a prime example of the black women as the matriarch figure for
families; despite being separated from your own children through slavery and
death, you embrace your grandchildren as your own. To support your family, you
take advantage of your skills as a cook, developed a profit from your hustle,
and in the process develop a respect in a 19th century southern community.
Your social currency alone delays the mistreatment and potential rape of your
granddaughter.
Yet, your position in
this community seems to cloud your judgement. As Linda chooses to proclaim a
false pregnancy, you disgrace her as if it would be her own fault, knowing full
well her “purity” is not completely within her control. Sending her away? As if
she can fend for herself pregnant and alone? When she confesses her lie for her
own protection, you fear more so for your own standing and forgo outright
delivery of your forgiveness. Linda is still “pure”, but will you every look at
her the same for how she’s tarnished your vision of her? Or of yourself in
society? My view of your maternal presence has waned, yet I hope I will learn
more of your unity amongst family rather than respect among nearby slave
owners.
~Sydney
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