Autobiography of A Homegirl
is the bittersweet story of a black woman's epiphany when, in a 24 hour stretch, her child's father shows up with his white fiancee and, in an historic coup, the first black woman is crowned, "Miss America." When the validity of this coup is challenged, this emboldened mother goes to battle with both inner and outer forces threatening her fragile self-esteem. Ultimately it is the belief system held by both blacks and whites that is on the front lines as issues of race, color, beauty and the origins of it all culminate in this psychological journey through the life of a black woman determined to give her daughter what she herself must recoup, a healthy self-esteem.
The coronation of the first black "Miss America" in 1983 serves as a backdrop for understanding ourselves and the complexities of American society brought sharply into focus by the guest appearance of that enduring, indefatigable icon, "Barbie." The play explores how entrenched standards of beauty have affected not just African American women, but all women.
Comprehensive Study Guide Notes are included in this edition to supplement African American Studies, Women's Studies, Cultural Studies, Theatre or Playwriting programs and courses in high schools, colleges and universities.