A Voice from the South: By a Black Woman of the South

Cooper mentions that white women’s organizations at the time often exclude Black women. Even though white women are proclaiming socially progressive ideas, they often neglect the humanity of other races. The women’s movement is gaining momentum, and Cooper emphasizes that American women are “responsible for American manners” and have a direct influence on society (52). Criticizing white women, she notes that they fear losing their social privilege, highlighting the issue of class. Using the example of traveling around the country, she demonstrates that Black women face continual discrimination and violence. Racism combined with the undermining of their womanhood feels like a double burden. She criticizes the cruel treatment of Black people and racial discrimination in all aspects of public life.

For Cooper, Southern ideas have dominated the country and reinforced prejudices against Black people. For a long time, Black people have remained subjected to white men. She refers to the politics of the Reconstruction era, noting that the oppression of African Americans in the South has persisted. White women who participate in the women’s movement still discriminate against African Americans, despite proclaiming ideas of equality. As white people still fear “social equality” with Black people, Cooper notes that equality means freedom and recognition of their humanity.