Zainab Johnson is the Muslim Representation Black Women Need

In America, Black Muslims face a unique duality of discrimination. According to the PEW Research Center , 96 percent of American-born Black Muslims report significant discrimination against Muslims in America. It is close to the amount of people who say there is a lot of discrimination against Black people in America. Despite Black people accounting for about 13 percent of the adult Muslim community, representation of Black Muslim women , specifically, remains limited. Seeing Black Muslim faces in media can be challenging.

Zainab Johnson Creating Her Own Lane

Comedian Zainab Johnson is changing this narrative by being authentically herself in her comedy routines. In fact, she said that when she first started in the industry, her authenticity was the only thing she could bring to the table.

“The only thing I knew to do when I started doing stand-up was to tap into what is most authentically me,” she told 21Ninety. “The response I’ve gotten from so many women is, ‘Thank you, you helped me feel seen.’ For that alone, I am immensely grateful and it will be the motivation that pushes me to continue.”

While many may think that being a Muslim woman and a comedian may have to be mutually exclusive, Johnson disagrees. To her, incorporating her faith into her jokes has been a liberating experience.

“I often talk about the negative narrative about Muslims in the world,” Johnson said. “That wasn’t my experience and wasn’t the experience of the people I’m around. If I have the opportunity, I’m going to try my best to have some input on that narrative.”

She went on to explain that she understands the protection of Islam because of the universally skewed narrative.

“People want to make sure it’s represented right,” she said. “I am here to say it may not be all the way right, but I am not perfect and I still love it. This is a journey, and just come with me on this journey.”

The Power of a Black Mother’s Influence

Johnson’s journey has been highlighted by Bounty who has partnered with the comedian to focus on Black moms, celebrating their iconic cleaning standards with a humorous twist. Black moms have such a strong influence on the families they raise. A pivotal influence in Johnson’s life is her own mother, whom she credits with giving her the greatest gift: Islam.

“The other day I actually texted my mom to thank her because one of the best gifts she has ever given me in my life is Islam,” Johnson said.

Her mother’s example was essential to her, as she didn’t see representation in media.

“My mom was always the first, last, and most constant example for me,” she said. “I didn’t see it on TV or in the media images. When I went to school, oftentimes I was the only one or maybe one of two.”

Johnson took her mother’s influence and created representation for others around the world.

“Sometimes when I am thinking and praying and reflecting, I’m just really grateful that she birthed Muslim children and taught us Islam,” Johnson said.

The post Zainab Johnson is the Muslim Representation Black Women Need appeared first on 21Ninety .