"To Protect and Serve": African American Female Literacies

After reading Elaine Richardson’s article “To Protect and Serve”: African American Female Literacies, the main quote that stood out to me was, “As the Black female is her child’s first teacher, mother tongue literacy must be factored in as a crucial element of theory and practice” (Richardson 700). Richardson describes the mothers tongue literacy as the ‘mothers transmit their language into their children’ and more importantly it makes us what we are. Growing up my mother was my first teacher. Her interactions with others showed me how to communicate with people on a daily basis. She taught me life lessons and instilled values in me that I hope to pass down to my own child. Even from the womb my mother has protected and cared for me. Without this first encounter of maternal literacy, children will often search for themselves through outside sources and often pick up bad habits on the way. This lack of a motherly influence and guidance will hinder the growth and development of African American daughter.

A mother’s tongue also stresses the importance of education. The article mentions Holtzclaw, an African American male who states how his mother played an influential role in his education. He states, “His mother used to protect his schooling, as she hoped schooling would guarantee him a life better than cotton picking”. When the landlord wanted him to quit school, his mother would not let that happen. Everyday she would sneak him off to school, to ensure that he continued his education. Black mothers are protective of their kin. Since they want to best for their children they will protect them at any means necessary. They will not let any danger stand in the way of their dream. Lastly, this maternal tongue teaches children that adversities will make one stronger. Living in a society where black women are viewed as sex objects and are devalued and disrespected, maternal literacies give one the strength to excel.