Crafting Authentic Black Representation in Fiction: Beyond Blackwashing

Recently, I came across the question, 'Other than blackwashing, could anyone give me examples to create good representation for black characters?' This question sparked a conversation on the methods and best practices to authentically represent black characters in fiction. Here are some strategies and insights to help create compelling and meaningful characters.

Base Characters on Rich Forms of Inspiration

One effective approach is to create characters based on black folk tales or real-life figures who embody strength, determination, and resilience. These sources provide a wealth of inspiration that can enrich your storytelling. Consider how these stories or individuals resonate with your audience and how they can be adapted to fit your narrative. For example, Alice Walker's character Celie from the novel The Color Purple is based on the experiences of many African American women and has become a symbol of the perseverance and inner strength of black women.

Avoid Common Pitfalls of Blackwashing

Blackwashing an established character is often seen as a last resort and rarely works. Audiences today have a deep familiarity with characters and are quick to notice any inconsistencies in a character's portrayal. Race should only be a factor if it's relevant to the story. Otherwise, it's crucial to choose actors based on their performance, rather than their racial background. For instance, Ellen Ripley from Alien was not initially created as a woman, but Sigourney Weaver's iconic portrayal made the role unforgettable. Imagine if another actor had taken on the role – the impact might have been significantly different.

Similarly, when creating a character, focus on crafting an interesting, complex, and compelling persona. It's not enough to simply say, 'Look, I made a black character in a diverse setting to show my openness.' The character needs to be believable and relatable. In the case of a minor or prominent character in a predominantly white setting, delve into their backstory and motivations. How do they feel about their environment? Why are they there? These questions can add depth and richness to your narrative.

Place Characters in Relatable Contexts

The setting of your story can greatly influence how readers perceive your characters. If your story is set in the future, consider the geopolitical landscape. A space ship launched by a black-majority country would likely have a predominantly black crew, unless the story is explicitly about the diversity of space travel institutions. Similarly, a diverse setting would naturally include a mix of characters from different backgrounds.

For instance, if a character transfers to a white-dominated firm, explore their journey and perspective. Are they struggling with isolation, or are they embraced by the community? These dynamics can create a compelling subplot that adds to the richness of your narrative. If you choose to include a minority character in a predominantly white setting, ensure their presence makes logical sense within the context of the story. Adding a character without a clear reason can feel forced and distracting.

Engage Your Audience with Authentic Stories

Ultimately, the goal is to create characters that resonate with your audience and provide a meaningful story experience. By drawing inspiration from real-life figures and black folk tales, ensuring authenticity and relevance in the portrayal of race, and placing characters in relatable contexts, you can craft characters that not only break the mold of stereotypes but also add depth and richness to your narrative.

Remember, the essence of storytelling lies in authenticity and the ability to evoke emotions and provoke thought. By following these guidelines, you'll be well on your way to creating memorable and impactful characters that authentically represent black culture and diversity.