Tell Mama: Black Motherhood in Graphic Novels Centering Black Girls

Too often in popular media and especially in the world of literature, via comics and graphic novels, mothers are glaringly absent. It is a depressing observation on my end as I always look for them, especially the mothers of Black characters. This is a work that goes beyond the scope of a simple editorial. Alas every journey starts with one step. Here I choose to start small and explore two women from one of my favorite graphic novels that feature incredible women who are the mothers of the main character in Nubia: Real One. These women are named, thankfully. They are not dead before the start of either book and neither are they killed off in the name of plot advancement in either graphic novel. As supporting characters, these women have voices, agency, flaws and secrets, even. These mamas show us a glimpse of Black motherhood that is not always seen or even accessible in comics. It is perhaps only in recent years for more mainstream publishers and audiences that we begin to see this type of Black motherhood. Note: This editorial will explore the women who are the mothers of the main characters of Nubia: Real One. Please know that while I do not spoil the entirety of the graphic novel, certain details are revealed and elaborated on. To avoid any spoilers, please consider reading the book and returning to read if this caught your eye! Nubia: Real One is a graphic novel aimed for the young adult audiences published through DC Comics centering the adventures of teenage Nubia, Wo…