Natasha S. Alford’s debut memoir, “American Negra,” is a groundbreaking work that offers a realistic guide to overcoming challenges on the path to achieving the American Dream.
The book, crafted as an encouraging coming-of-age tale, fills a significant gap in the media landscape by centering on the experiences of an Afro-Latina woman.
Alford, currently the Vice President of Digital Content at The Grio, takes readers on a captivating journey through her ambitious childhood in upstate New York. She narrates her pursuit of the American Dream while navigating the complexities of ethnicity, femininity, identity, and purpose.
Unlike typical tales that often feature young white men, Alford’s story is a refreshing and relatable account of an Afro-Latina girl from a loving and supportive family.
“There’s just not enough stories that acknowledge our existence,” she told HelloBeautiful. “I had to write something that would let those women be seen, those girls be seen.”
Intersectional Representation and Relatability
Alford’s memoir is a rare example of the American Dream narrative centering on an Afro-Latina voice. Her perspective is not only unique but also highly relatable, drawing comparisons to works such as Tara Westover’s “Educated” and Danielle Prescod’s “Token Black Girl.”
Growing up in a time when terms like “Afro-Latina” were not widely used, Alford’s memoir explores the challenges faced by girls who existed at the intersection of multiple cultures. It delves into the language barriers and historical gaps that shaped their experiences, offering a profound understanding of their struggles and triumphs.
“When you’re an Afro-Latina, you sometimes are treated like an outsider within your own culture, and so really your safe place is with other Black people, right? Regardless of your ethnic differences. And that rings so true for me, and I think that’s why so many Afro-Latinos sort of get adopted into the African-American community.”
Celebrating the Support System
One of the remarkable aspects of “American Negra” is its emphasis on the systems and role models that enabled Alford’s success. The memoir highlights the individuals who supported her journey, from the woman who curled her hair and taught her etiquette to those who helped plan her quinceanera.
“This book, in many ways, is a thank you letter,” said Alford. “It was so important for me to show people that.”
By acknowledging her support system, Alford underscores the importance of community and encourages readers to recognize the privilege and assistance they have received on their paths to success.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Alford’s memoir is not only a personal account but also a call to action. She emphasizes the need to invest in and nurture the talents of young people, particularly those from marginalized communities.
“There’s too many young people who are seen as disposable by society. And there’s so much talent that we lose out on because we’re not intervening,” Alford continued.
Through her role at The Grio and her position as a media heavyweight, Alford aims to amplify more stories like her own, ensuring that Afro-Latina voices are no longer seen as “marginal.”
