We’re all familiar with the stereotype that Black people love fried chicken. It has been used to degrade, dehumanize, and uphold racism. But where does this stereotype come from? And why was fried chicken singled out? 

In this episode, we explore the answers to both of these questions and show the role that fried chicken has played in perpetuating white supremacy. Plus, my dad makes an appearance at the end of the podcast to share his perspective too.

 

Bite-sized Black History 

Bite-sized Black History is a program that empowers you to teach the little ones you love about 12 brilliant Black Americans that have been largely overlooked by our history books.

These 12 bite-sized podcast episodes, coloring pages, and reflection questions are your key to a meaningful Black History Month celebration in your home or classroom!

 

First Name Basis Patreon community

Join the First Name Basis Patreon Community Make sure to join our Patreon Community to take part in our monthly Q&A sessions and download the detailed notes from this episode!

 

Articles, Studies, & Podcasts Referenced in the Episode

“Where Did That Fried Chicken Stereotype Come From?” Code Switch Podcast

“‘Writing History With Lightning:’ The Birth of a Nation at 100,” by Rachel Janie, TIME

“‘The Birth of a Nation’; The 1915 Film Screened at the White House Depicting Blacks as Savages,” by Michael Eli Dokosi, Face 2 Face Africa

“Prejudgements of Those Who Eat ‘Healthy’ vs ‘Unhealthy’ Food for Breakfast,” by Michael E. Oakes and Carole S. Slotterback 

“Jubilee,” a cookbook by Toni Tipton-Martin 

“‘The Fried Chicken Capital:’ Where Racial Progress Began Along the Rails,” NPR

First Name Basis Podcast, Season 3, Episode 11: “The One Thing I Wish You Knew About Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.”

First Name Basis Podcast, Season 3, Episode 24: “Cancel Culture Pt. 3: Removing Statues”

“So You Want to Talk About Race” by Ijeoma Oluo

First Name Basis Website

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Song Credit: “Sleeper” by Steve Adams” and “Dive Down” by VYEN