Miss Tina opened up to Essence Magazine about raising Beyonce and Solange around black culture and arts:
“I’ve always collected African-American art. So, they were surrounded by images of their culture. Whether it be present-day culture or historic African culture. I evn have artwork from many of the older artists that depict moments from slavery and the cotton fields in Louisiana. So, the girls have been surrounded by visuals that truly influenced them and helped them to embrace their bodies and their culture and to just help them feel good about it.”
Miss Tina explains that all black parents should focus on teaching black children self-awareness and love for their blackness:
“I think that it’s really important — not to harp on race — but, in order for your kids to be very proud of their heritage and who they are, as Black people, you have to show them every aspect of it.
“Especially the things that are culturally important, like positive images of their Blackness. Whether it be music or poetry or books or art. Just explaining to them how important it is to have pride and to give back and to give back to your community. So, those are things that are being instilled in my grandchildren as well. It’s great to fit in but, you really need to be proud of who you are. Don’t ever lose sight of who you are and where you come from.”
Sadly some black parents don’t understand this.
And that’s a damn shame. They are so focused on giving their kids the “good life” that they forget to remind them they are still black.
Love her.
She did a great job with her daughters. Mathew as well.
I think most of us were raised that way. It tripped me out as a kid seeing the painting of the funeral procession in our living on The Cosby Show. Unfortunately, it’s a sign of the change of the times, because parents these days couldn’t care less about ensuring their children are raised with an awareness of who they are. Videos and photos on social media drives people now, and it’s sad.