From Pet to Threat: The Dehumanization of Black Women in Professional Spaces

[Video] How Black Women go from being The Office Pet to Company Threat - Ronke Lawal Means Business

In the complex world of professional environments, Black women often find themselves navigating a precarious landscape where they are either infantilized as "pets" or demonized as "threats." Both extremes are dehumanizing and serve to undermine our professional and personal identities. This harmful duality is rooted in deep-seated stereotypes and systemic racism that continues to pervade many workplaces today.

The "Pet to Threat" phenomenon was first coined in 2013 by Dr Kecia Thomas at the University of Georgia who "found that early in their careers, Black women received and benefited from the support of their managers and mentors—often white males—who were eager to train and cultivate them. But as these women became more competent and confident in their roles, their mentors’ attitudes often changed."

The Pet: Infantilization and Objectification

Being treated as a "pet" often involves being patronized, objectified, or reduced to a mere token of diversity. This treatment manifests in ways that seem innocuous on the surface but are deeply damaging. For instance, a Black woman might be praised for her "feistiness" or "sass"—comments that trivialize her personality and contributions. These labels are rooted in stereotypes that frame Black women as entertaining or exotic, rather than as competent professionals.

This infantilization minimizes our skills, experiences, and intelligence. It creates a barrier to being taken seriously and valued for our professional expertise. When we’re treated as pets, we’re not seen as equal participants in the workplace, but rather as accessories to it—there to be admired or handled with condescension.

The Threat: Demonization and Stereotyping

Conversely, when Black women assert their opinions, advocate for themselves, or resist the confines of the "pet" stereotype, they often find themselves swiftly recast as a "threat." This shift is steeped in the "angry Black woman" trope, where any sign of assertiveness or frustration is exaggerated and misinterpreted as aggression.

This stereotype not only isolates us but also serves as a tool to discredit and silence our voices. It positions Black women as problems to be managed rather than as individuals with valid concerns and valuable insights. The result is a professional environment where our contributions are marginalized, and our potential is stifled.

The Impact on Mental Health and Career Growth

The psychological toll of being caught between these two extremes—pet or threat—is profound. It leads to constant self-monitoring and a heightened awareness of how we are perceived, which can cause anxiety, stress, and a diminished sense of self-worth. Professionally, this dynamic creates barriers to advancement, as Black women are either not taken seriously or are penalized for asserting themselves.

This environment of constant scrutiny and stereotype management is not only exhausting but also deeply unjust. It limits our ability to fully engage in our work, pursue leadership roles, and achieve the career success we deserve.

Strategies for Navigating the "Pet to Threat" Dynamic

While changing these entrenched dynamics requires systemic action, there are strategies Black women can use to navigate these challenges:

1. Name the Behavior: Acknowledging when you’re being treated as a pet or a threat can be empowering. Naming the behavior—whether it’s to yourself, a trusted colleague, or even in a direct conversation—helps reclaim your agency.

2. Set Clear Boundaries: Establishing boundaries is crucial. If someone is treating you in a patronizing manner, make it clear that you expect to be treated with the same respect as any other professional. Similarly, if you’re being unfairly labeled as a threat, calmly assert your position and redirect the conversation to the issue at hand.

3. Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with allies who understand these dynamics and can offer support, whether it’s through mentorship, collaboration, or simply being a sounding board. Collective support can help counteract the isolation that often accompanies these experiences.

4. Document and Report: If the behavior crosses into harassment or discrimination, document your experiences and consider reporting them through appropriate channels. This can be a difficult decision, but it’s important to protect your rights and well-being.

5. Engage in Self-Care: Prioritizing your mental health is essential. Engaging in self-care practices, whether through therapy, meditation, or community support, can help mitigate the emotional impact of these experiences.

Further Reading

Sister Outsider: Essays and Speeches" by Audre Lorde

For those interested in exploring this topic further, here are some recommended readings:

• "Sister Outsider: Essays and Speeches" by Audre Lorde: A collection of powerful essays that address the complexities of Black womanhood, identity, and the intersection of race and gender.

• "The Intersectionality Wars" by Jane Coaston: (Vox article): An exploration of the concept of intersectionality and how it applies to the experiences of Black women in various contexts, including the workplace.

• "The Memo: What Women of Color Need to Know to Secure a Seat at the Table" by Minda Harts: A guide that provides practical advice for Black women navigating corporate America and overcoming the challenges posed by systemic racism and sexism.

• "Eloquent Rage: A Black Feminist Discovers Her Superpower" by Brittney Cooper: This book offers a powerful perspective on how Black women can harness their emotions and experiences to foster resilience and empowerment.

Collective Empowerment Through Awareness and Action

At Resilient Queens Collective, we believe in the power of collective action and awareness to challenge these harmful dynamics. By sharing our stories, supporting one another, and advocating for systemic change, we can create professional environments where Black women are valued for who we are—beyond the reductive labels of pet or threat.

Let’s continue to uplift each other, speak out against these injustices, and work together to build a world where all Black women can thrive.