SPECIAL TO THE TIMES
WINTER PARK — The Dorothy Turner Johnson Branch of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) recently held its first Author’s Salon. Dr. Rebekah McCloud, chapter Vice-President moderated the conversation with Dr. Ruth D. Edwards, Critical Social Theorist and Human Development scholar. Dr. Edwards, the Director of Education at the Winter Park Library, talked about the second edition of her book Becoming a Black Woman. The book, an outgrowth of her doctoral dissertation research, delves into the socio-psychological development of Black women, explores cultural influences on human behavior, and uncovers the reasons behind actions.
A qualitative study of nine women ages 15-80 born and raised in the United States utilized the collective memory work research process. Participants were asked to think back on situations that have contributed to who they are today. The women’s life experiences, memories, and growth and development were central to Dr. Edwards developing the Internalized Collective Consciousness Theory. Dr. Edwards noted that the impetus for the research came from a question she had. “How is it that I can meet women from other parts of the country and I can start a sentence and they can complete it?”
How that happens was the crux of her research. The answer is morphic resonance. The women were taught by their mothers, who were taught by their mothers, who were taught by their mothers, and so on. Dr. Edwards’ talk was enthralling. Her research and book are a one-of-a-kind expose. It provides a space where the individual voices and the rich experiences of Black women are front and center. Readers will be captivated by the tapestry woven by the stories and struggles of becoming a Black woman. It is a must-read.
When asked why we need to discuss the socialization of Black women, Dr. Edwards said, “Research on Black women in the field of Human Development is still wanting. Everything done on women focused on white women and assumed to apply to all other women. Research on Black people focused on Black men and believed to apply to all Black people. Both of these are incorrect.”
Dr. Edwards has a wide and varied background that includes work in Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity; higher education; and media as a television host, radio announcer, and an award-winning producer. She presented at the 2023 Oxford [England] International Roundtable on Education & Literacy and took a lifelong learning trip to Morocco with the Fielding Graduate University alumni group. Dr. Edwards is the author of another book, Step into Yourself: Spiritual Affirmation for Embracing Change. Her books are available on Amazon.
