Pepsi Co brand decided due to all the backlash of racial and social injustices going on in the country for over 400 years, and George Floyd protest to finally change its racist Aunt Jemima brand name.
Why?
The Aunt Jemima name has a racist origin, and character that was portrayed in Minstrel shows (white women portraying black characters). Nancy Green an African American woman born into slavery is arguably the most well known character to portray the Aunt Jemima figure.
Nancy was forced to neglect her own family to care for the family of her white slave master.
In addition ,the brand made tons of money in which Green has never received any royalties. Green likeness, along with Lillian Richard, Anna Robinson, Anna Short Herrington, Ethel Harper all should receive compensation for their likeness that help generate millions if not billions for the company.
Even more deterring is that Quaker Oats often paid white actresses to wear black faces, and sing old negro spirituals (slave songs) while representing the brand.
According to CNN Business
“As we work to make progress toward racial equality through several initiatives, we also must take a hard look at our portfolio of brands and ensure they reflect our values and meet our consumers’ expectations,”
What’s even more interesting is that the site describes the origin of the brand and logo, goes into great depth of Nancy Green’s credentials, labeling her a story teller, missionary, cook but fails to mention anything about her being born directly into slavery…
“Qwhite” interesting….
