Overthink Black Women's Magic with Lindsey Stewart
Sep 9, 2025
Lindsey Stewart, an Associate Professor of Philosophy at the University of Memphis and author of The Conjuring of America, unpacks the magic of Black women, tracing its roots from West African traditions to modern times. She discusses the complex image of Black women as magical figures and the influence of history and Christianity on these narratives. Stewart connects the concept of Sankofa to cultural icons like Beyoncé, highlighting how music and healing practices reflect resilience and identity within the Black community.
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Origins Of Black Women's Magic
- 'Black Girl Magic' roots reach back to West African tales like Oshun gifting women Aje, a form of world-building power.
- Lindsey Stewart argues this lineage makes Black women's magic central to 400 years of American history.
Conjure Shaped American Culture
- Stewart connects conjure practices to American cultural staples like medicine, midwifery, textiles, and music.
- She claims these Black women's contributions are baked into U.S. culture and its institutions.
Vicks VapoRub Origins Story
- Stewart investigated Vicks VapoRub's origins after noting enslaved women's fever remedies resembled menthol rubs.
- She found testimony suggesting Lunsford Richardson likely stole a Black family's recipe for his product.
