A Different World

What's in a name? Plenty, as Whitley learns.



She heads up a presentation for the dedication of her residence hall. There are plans for art pieces and other events. What's left in may matter more than what's left out: Whitley wants to use images of so-called 'mammies,' exaggerated figures of African-American women nursemaids.



The concept may have been used in the past, but is considered by many today to be stereotypical and offensive. Kim is infuriated by the plans and threatens to quit the event. Whitley rebuts her with the notion that in reality, the women in these images were hard-working people who cared for their families and in fact saved many lives. Although they did not get respect back then, they deserve it now.



Whitley sends Lena to the library to track down some more information. She returns with some interesting stories, all right: turns out Whitley's family owned slaves.



Horrified by the truth, Whitley wants to shut down the show. Mr. Gaines lets her know that there's nothing she can do about it. It's up to Kim along with Freddie, Lena and Gina to put on a show about the changing image of African-American women in popular culture. The performance is funny, startling and from the heart.



Another serious episode that deals warmly with its difficult subjects; the cast continues to bring out the best in the characters.