Historically, traditional sex and gender roles assign the color pink to girls and women. According to color psychology, the color pink commonly represents femininity, romance, intimacy, compassion, nurturing, and love. Uncommon traits including being physically weak, overly emotional and lacking will power or self worth are also associated with the color pink which explains the avoidance of men to "protect their masculinity." There are mixed feelings among those who identify as feminists and Black feminists as to whether or not the color pink should be recognized in their respective movements.
W H Y F E M I N I S T S D O N ' T W E A R P I N K
Aside from their love for pink pussy hats, mainstream feminists (mostly white women) typically don't appreciate the color pink. Mainstream feminists tend to view the typical characteristics of femininity and romance as ways to sexualize women which tarnishes their "good girl" image. On the other hand, its overtly negative associations with the innocence of a child, inexperience, naiveté, immaturity, silly and girlish qualities, and irresponsibility, deems the color pink as problematic.
Unfortunately, these particular associations could further support patriarchy's argument that women aren't deserving of equal rights. Feminists already have a fear of not being taken seriously by men regarding their fight for social, political, and economical equality so being caught wearing pink would allegedly make it worse.
W H Y B L A C K F E M I N I S T S W E A R P I N K
Black feminists have historically been labeled as "Angry Black Women" for having the audacity of creating our own safe spaces and fighting against misogynoir; racism within mainstream feminism; sexism within black movements; and respectability politics within sexuality. Despite the supposed bad reputation of the color pink, Black feminists are unbothered.
Color Psychology supports that the color pink can actually alleviate the rightful anger and aggression expressed by Black feminists due to our continued experiences of neglect and abuse. The color pink also represents the long overdue respect and appreciation of the contribution of Black feminism. Health is another beneficial association with the color pink which is another major priority for Black feminists.
By proudly embracing the "Mean Girls" color palette, we as Black feminists are reclaiming our femininity, self-worth, and sexual narrative by donning pink on Wednesdays and any other day that ends in "y". Most importantly, the color pink, when paired with a darker hue such as melanated skin, represents strength and sophistication.
Bottomline, wear as much pink as you damn well please sis...
Out with Mammy, Jezebel, and Sapphire... In with Cupcake Noire.
XOXO, Shawna
Source: https://www.empower-yourself-with-color-psychology.com/color-pink.html