By: Lila Johnson
As the pandemic unfolded, I found myself experimenting in the kitchen, just as my 5-year-old twins developed a newfound love for pancakes. Baking was uncharted territory for me; my upbringing—where measurements were rarely employed—left me apprehensive about trying anything from scratch. My first attempt at pancakes didn’t go as planned, leading my daughter to critique, “Mommy, these are burnt. They aren’t like the Trader Joe’s ones.”
For months, pancakes became the staple of my daughters’ breakfasts. Concerned about cavities from the syrup they drenched their pancakes in, I attempted to introduce a healthier option, organic agave syrup. The reaction was not what I expected! We now keep a bottle of Aunt Jemima syrup in our fridge, a brand my daughters cherish for its familiarity. However, its iconic label will soon undergo a transformation.
The history of Aunt Jemima, the woman depicted on the syrup bottle, has often been overlooked. Contrary to the narrative of a loving Black grandmother making syrup for her grandchildren, the truth is more complex. This notion, shared with me by my partner from South Asia, had never crossed my mind.
In my childhood home, Aunt Jemima syrup was a staple. I would occasionally drizzle it over my Cream of Wheat, but the broader implications of Aunt Jemima’s identity were not topics discussed with my Black southern grandparents. Perhaps they were unaware, or like me, never considered the deeper story behind her image.
Quaker Oats, the company behind the syrup, has announced plans to rebrand in response to societal changes and the Black Lives Matter movement. Their statement indicated a commitment to racial equality alongside a pledge of $1 million to support Black women and girls, plus an astounding $400 million aimed at uplifting Black communities and enhancing representation at PepsiCo, which acquired Quaker Oats in 2001 for $13.8 billion. As part of this initiative, the Aunt Jemima brand is set to be replaced by “Pearl Milling Company,” a name reflecting its origins.
While financial contributions are a step forward, they only scratch the surface of the historical and societal issues tied to the Aunt Jemima legacy. It’s crucial to understand the story of Aunt Jemima and the significant role Black women have played throughout history. The original face of Aunt Jemima was Nancy Green, born a slave in 1834, who later became a celebrated cook and the brand’s first ambassador. Her legacy, along with those of other women who followed, deserves acknowledgment and respect.
I hope the commitment from Quaker Oats will extend beyond financial support to include recognizing the contributions of the twelve women who represented Aunt Jemima. This could involve creating museums and educational materials that honor their stories, ensuring that future generations understand who Aunt Jemima was and what she represents in American history.
This transformation must also address the underlying stereotypes perpetuated by the name “Aunt Jemima.” The company has a responsibility not just to assist the Black community but to engage all Americans in a dialogue that can reshape outdated beliefs. This is a critical opportunity for Quaker Oats to truly listen and include diverse voices in its leadership.
By understanding the true history behind Aunt Jemima, we can educate our children about her legacy and the impact of the women who once represented it. Let’s hope Quaker Oats leads the charge in honoring that legacy for years to come.
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Summary:
This article reflects on the legacy of Aunt Jemima, a brand that has undergone significant scrutiny and change. With Quaker Oats pledging $400 million towards racial equity, the importance of recognizing the history and contributions of Black women, particularly those associated with the Aunt Jemima brand, is emphasized. The piece advocates for a deeper understanding of this legacy and the need for inclusive dialogue and representation moving forward.
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