

A large portion of modern Americans are under the impression racial inequality does not exist anymore. Those people should buy a TV, or a radio, or pick up a newspaper because it is everywhere.  The harsh realities may settle in, and one may think “we have come a far way”. African Americans specifically have come very far in society, working constantly, determined to not be seen as a minority anymore. The fight has been ongoing, and so has the determination to preserve African American Culture. In Beyoncé’s music video Formation, she uses the background of a devastatingly destroyed New Orleans, predominantly populated by African American to exemplify the importance of never losing hope and “keep grinding” to reach ones goals. Beyoncé stresses the progress of African Americans in history, the importance of preservation of culture, her success and a reminder to keep going. 

Although African American oppression has been around for as long as people can remember, it is evident that the time period of slavery was the worst. In one of the beginning scenes, Beyoncé wears a white lace dress. The wives of southern white plantation owners typically wore this dress. At the time, these specific groups of people were one of the most powerful groups of people in the south. Beyoncé wears this white dress in order to establish that despite being discriminated against constantly because of her color she has reached the point where she is not only one of the most powerful people in the entertainment industry. This particular ensemble is an indication that she just like her ancestors had the same capabilities, sophistication and Knowledge as white people then and deserved an equal amount of respect. Her ancestors never wore these outfits and were never given the opportunity to simply because of the ridiculous belief that African Americans were not capable of the same things white people were. This color dress specifically signifies the innocence of African Americans throughout history and constant rejection of not only the people themselves but also their heritage. When Beyoncé says “ I got hot sauce in my bag swag” she is expressing that her success has not and never will change who she is. By using this analogy, she is showing no matter where she is in life her background will never leave her. This also emphasizes the theme that African American heritage should continue to live on despite modern society’s pressure to conform. 

In addition, Beyoncé wears an all black outfit. Although her outfit is completely different, the motif is the same. The outfit appears in the scenes where she is on the stairs of a plantation surrounded by a group of African American men. The theme of overcoming African American history of oppression reappears. This time, the all black symbolizes the strength, confidence and determination of African Americans throughout time to get to where they are today. Beyoncé herself has worked so hard to get to the top of the music industry and now she is one of the most prominent, superior artists. An African American female, determined to overcome the prejudices against her; she has become an Icon for the movement. The all black highlights the message that she is mourning all of the events in the past of African American history, but also the evolution and potential for the future. The Superiority and vibe of her being “above you” is another way of her exhibiting her power and wealth now. Despite being a minority, Beyoncé shows hard work breaks that barrier.

Furthermore, one of the most infatuating portions of the video is when Beyoncé is in an old- mansion dancing in a red romper. Beyoncé mentions numerous things that the African American culture is known for, showing her pride instead of shaming away from it. It is a prevalent issue in today’s society that many African American people are encouraged to change and conform to the stereotypical “white person” look. The importance of this scene is the fact that Beyoncé is wearing the color red. The color red often highlights feelings of determination, strength, courage, action, desire and vigor. These are all qualities that are often associated with success and Beyoncé possesses those qualities as well. She is showing hold onto the past but do not let it affect the future. 

Essentially, Formation highlights the importance of modern African Americans showing how far they have come and that they will continue to evolve. The backdrop of New Orleans shows that even though they have gone through tough times they have overcome it. Beyoncé uses symbolism to show the potential strength of the African American community when united. She does this by showing past significant events and their place in society today (their evolution). The video shows that despite all of the money Beyoncé has made, she has not changed and “the country” has not left her. She insinuates that the preservation of African American culture is crucial not only within herself but in society. The music video highlights the evolution of African Americans and overcoming their hardships despite the fact that they have been so oppressed throughout history.

In conclusion, the numerous colors illustrated by the numerous sides of Beyoncé show the importance of remembering the past and moving forward in the future. Beyoncé emphasizes the evolution of Femininity and African Americans, showing through her superiority despite being both of those how far she has come. Through the video, the motifs of proving doubters wrong, never forgetting the past and never stop working until a dream becomes a reality. 

 

 