Black is often seen as dark, strong, even evil — a color and identity burdened with stereotypes. Black women and non-binary people are constantly masculinized, sexualized, and disrespected, their features deemed undesirable, their femininity dismissed. The media may praise our strength but rarely honors our softness or humanity.

I've been called "white-washed" for dressing femininely and told to always look perfect. Many of my friends share similar struggles — navigating shame and self-expression in a world that polices our appearance. But black femininity is valid in all its forms. From curls to braids to wigs, from softness to boldness, we deserve the freedom to define ourselves.

Through my protest piece, I reclaim black femininity — not as something to justify, but something to celebrate. Black can be powerful, black can be bold, but black can be charming and sweet. Soft is Black.