Afrofuturism and The McCoy Game Reflection

 Katharine Burris  

EN 376 Reflection 

After reading both the article “What is Afrofuturism?” and “The McCoy Game,” I found it interesting how Afrofuturism and Black joy are used in children literature to develop a more positive influence on their self-love and representation. In science fiction and children’s literature, Black futures are rarely depicted, and therefore, by bringing these stories to the forefront, it inspires positivity of Black boys and young men.  

The characters within “The McCoy Game” fit the theme of Afrofuturism described in the article as they are characterized as happy and creative. By the end of the story, Jamal and Dre realize their own capabilities for success and develop a greater sense of confidence. Characters such as Jamal and Dre serve as positive role models for Black children and can help break the stereotypes that people typically associate them with. Creating this new genre of literature provides a safe space where Black children have the freedom to explore their own unique experiences and counteract harmful stereotypes by being themselves.  

I found the story about one of the actors in Star Trek from the “What is Afrofuturism” article remarkably interesting. One of the female actors was “frustrated by the racism she faces at the hands of the show’s production company,” however Martin Luther King Jr. encouraged her to keep acting in the show to encourage the children who watch. This story shows the significance of how these stories of Black joy and representations in children's books and television are impactful for children to see themselves represented and to develop a sense of self-love. As a future teacher, learning about Afrofuturism helps me understand the importance of diversifying representations in my future library and allowing students to explore a space that allows them to be themselves without fear of harmful stereotypes and prejudgments.  

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