“ACTING GROWN” is a publication of feature-style essays about people, places, and things from a lens of faith.
Highlighting topics in identity, culture, and art, this publication blends personal histories, narrative storytelling, and current events to present colorful investigations into life.
inspiration for my title comes from Alice Walker’s Definition of a “Womanist” from In Search of Our Mothers’ Gardens: Womanist Prose.
WOMANIST 1. From womanish. (Opp. of “girlish,” i.e., frivolous, irresponsible, not serious.) A black feminist or feminist of color. From the black folk expression of mothers to female children, “you acting womanish,” i.e., like a woman. Usually referring to outrageous, audacious, courageous or willful behavior. Wanting to know more and in greater depth than is considered “good” for one. Interested in grown-up doings. Acting grown up. Being grown up. Interchangeable with another black folk expression: “You trying to be grown.” Responsible. In charge. Serious.
