Black women use hard work, not supernatural powers, to combat racism, sexism and poverty. Coined by Cashawn Thompson in 2013, “Black girls are magic” has been used as a unifying celebration of Black women. Shortened to “Black Girl Magic” or “#blackgirlmagic,” the phrase connotes a love and celebration for the unique experiences of Black women. As a rallying cry, it celebrates the lived experiences of Black women as magical because of the ways they face a multiplicity of oppression, such as racism and misogyny. Over the past five years, the term has gained traction in social media circles; like “I’m Black and I’m Proud,” #blackgirlmagic challenges cultural and political views that minimize Black women’s labor, beauty and talent. Despite the term’s broad usage, critics argue that it reinforces stereotypes of Black women, with “magic” implying they’re somehow superhuman. Linda Chavers, for example, said Black women being described as magical disregards the oppression and hard work required of Black women in a world that constantly shows them hatred — not to mention the violent experiences of queer and trans Black women within Black communities. | 