By DaiJah Owens
Loud, blunt, unapologetic, educated, intelligent, articulate, factual, wants all the smoke, and a IDGAF attitude. These are the adjectives that describe the incomparable Amanda Seales. These are also the adjectives that describe what people hate most about her. Amanda embodies the essence of what society hates about black women. They would much rather see her be quiet. Some feel she always has something to say or can’t just leave “well enough alone.” She triggers people to their very core. She challenges society in a way that most can’t wrap their head around. Why is she always so combative? Why must she always comment? These are the comments you often see about her. I think differently about Amanda. In fact, she is one of my biggest role models. Her ability to speak truth to power in such an eloquent way is why I STAN for Amanda Seales.
Now if you grew up under a rock, you may not have any clue who this boss lady is. Well, let me introduce you to her. Amanda is a comedian (HBO’s I Be Knowin’), actress (Issa Rae’s Insecure), DJ, recording artist, television personality (Co-host on The Real), and author (Small Doses: Potent Truths for Everyday Use.) Amanda was also a former member of the famous Neo-Soul music group, Floetry.
Now you may be asking yourself, “Why the History Lesson on Amanda Seales?” Well, I feel far too often we don’t truly appreciate the people who have shaped our culture until they are gone. I don’t want that to be the case for Amanda. I choose to celebrate her for constantly challenging black people to be better. She refuses to allow us to stay mentally mediocre and to get by with doing the bare minimum.
Amanda specifically challenges black men to take responsibility for their harm towards black women. This has made her a target. Instead of our people taking heed of her wise council, they have made her a villain. She is seen as an adversary to black men. For example, there was a movement started by Charlamaine Tha God of The Breakfast Club radio show, called “Black Men Don’t Cheat” It was seen as a way to say real black men don’t hurt their partners. Amanda came back and challenged them, insisting not cheating on your partner is a bare minimum requirement and black men should aspire for more. Black men from all over dragged her, of course. They didn’t understand why not cheating wasn’t enough. They didn’t understand why she required more.
Through the attacks, being misunderstood, being labeled a “bitch” and a know it all. Amanda still persists. I believe she has the upmost love and respect for black people and simply wishes to see us grow deeper.
Amanda has survived years in this world with people who’s mental capacity has been stunted by society’s conditioning. She has reached a level mentally and spiritually that only those who too have taken the journey of self-enlightenment can truly appreciate. I love Amanda for that, I appreciate her going against the grain, and you should too.
DaiJhah Owens is a Contributing Writer for the Pedestal Project, LLC. DaiJhah is passionate about shifting political power to oppressed groups through education. She believes there is nothing more powerful than an educated black woman who can smell political BS a mile away! Connect with her on Instagram at @d_nakhole!
The Pedestal Project 