Jamilah Lemieux on her book “Black Single Mother” and why the narrative about Black motherhood needs to change

Mar. 7, 2026 – 30:46 – In this with theGrio’s Natasha S. Alford, cultural critic and author Jamila Lemieux opens up about her new book Black Single Mother and the deeply personal journey behind it. Lemieux discusses the motivation for writing the book after years of hesitation, sharing how motherhood, heartbreak, and self-reflection shaped her story. The conversation explores the realities of co-parenting, the stigma surrounding Black single motherhood, and how Black women are often judged differently in conversations about family and relationships. The two also dive into topics including blended families, dating as a single mom, the importance of community support, and how Lemieux’s own childhood as the daughter of a single mother influenced her perspective on parenting today. Throughout the interview, Lemieux reflects on vulnerability, healing, and reclaiming narratives about Black motherhood while advocating for greater respect and support for single mothers.