In 2020, Quaker Oats made headlines when it announced that it would be retiring its long-standing “Aunt Jemima” brand, a move prompted by the Black Lives Matter movement. While the decision was met with support from many, it also sparked a passionate response from Larnell Evans Sr., the great-grandson of one of the women who portrayed Aunt Jemima.

Evans Sr., a Marine Corps veteran, voiced his concern that the retirement of the brand would only serve to erase an important part of black history and the suffering endured by his ancestors. He accused Quaker Oats of trying to hide the legacy of slavery, a history that the corporation had profited from for years.

“The racism they talk about, using images from slavery, that comes from the other side — white people. This company profits off images of our slavery. And their answer is to erase my great-grandmother’s history. A black female. … It hurts,” Evans Sr. expressed passionately.

It is important to acknowledge that the Aunt Jemima brand features a depiction of Nancy Green, a formerly enslaved black woman, on its logo. Green’s story is one of resilience and strength. She was not only a storyteller and cook but also a missionary worker. However, as Quaker Oats made the decision to retire the brand, they failed to mention the fact that Green was born into slavery, omitting a crucial part of her history.

The origins of the Aunt Jemima brand date back to 1893 when Nancy Green was hired to serve pancakes at the Chicago World’s Fair. Her portrayal of Aunt Jemima was the first time the brand name was used. After Green’s passing in 1923, another woman, Anna Short Harrington, took on the role in 1935. Larnell Evans Sr. claims that Harrington, whom he believes to be his great-grandmother, was discovered by a Quaker Oats representative while she was serving pancakes at the New York State Fair.

The retirement of the Aunt Jemima brand is a significant moment, representing a shift towards acknowledging the complexities of history and the need to move away from racial stereotypes. While it can be difficult to part with a brand that held nostalgic value for many, it is essential that we prioritize inclusivity, understanding, and respect for the experiences of all individuals.

As we navigate the future, let us remember the lessons from the past and work together to create a more inclusive society that celebrates diverse histories and promotes equality for all.