Quaker Oats announced the discontinuation of their “Aunt Jemima” brand in 2020, amidst the Black Lives Matter movement, sparking significant controversy. However, just a day later, a descendant of “Aunt Jemima” voiced opposition, arguing that the decision would erase black history and suffering. Marine Corps veteran Larnell Evans Sr. emphasized the personal significance, stating, “This is an injustice for me and my family. After profiting from slavery, the business now seeks to erase it.”
Evans highlighted the exploitation of racial imagery by the company, lamenting the erasure of his great-grandmother’s history. Quaker Oats confirmed the permanent withdrawal of the brand, featuring Nancy Green, born into slavery but only acknowledged as a “storyteller, cook, and missionary worker.”
The brand’s association with Green dates back to the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. Anna Short Harrington, succeeding Green, was allegedly Evans’ great-grandmother, portraying “Aunt Jemima” from 1935. Evans expressed dismay at the company’s exploitation of racial stereotypes for profit.
He questioned the corporate accountability of entities profiting from racial imagery without compensation to the black community. The decision to remove the brand sparked extensive discussion, prompting individuals to share their opinions. Share this article on Facebook to show support for the Black Lives Matter movement.
