The Legacy Of Aunt Jemima
An advertisement and "updated" label from the 1990's. Quaker Oats
Recently, Quaker Oats acknowledged that the Aunt Jemima brand and logo was based on racial stereotypes, having roots in minstrelsy and slavery, and they announced that they’ll discontinue the brand. Many critics say the move is long overdue, but there’s also a push by some to tell the real story of Nancy Green, and ensure that her legacy is honored and preserved.
The 21st explores how Nancy Green became a symbol of this brand and why it's problematic.
Guests:
Professor Jason P. Chambers, Associate Professor of Advertising at the University of Illinois and author of the book Madison Avenue and the Color Line: African Americans in the Advertising Industry
Sherry Williams, Founder and President of the Bronzeville Historical Society
Marcus Hayes, author of Strategic Warfare and descendent of Nancy Green, for whom the Aunt Jemima brand was based on
Prepared for web by Zainab Qureshi
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