Pinky

During the time period in which this film was produced racism was a big issue. Pinky had to deal with an identity crisis, because she was black woman in white skin. This crisis is one that she deals with throughout the film, and it is her pride that overcomes her desire to become white. The hardships that Pinky face, denying herself while up north, and being the victim of racism down south refer to the Pan Africanist theory. Pinky, whether living in the north or in the south, faces a commonality of struggle for justice, equality, and liberation. I believe that this immense pride that Pinky had for who she was, was what Kazan wanted to portray through her character. .
             Aside from Pinky there are several other characters that were significant in the film. Characters like Darcy Johnson, Mrs. Em, Dr. Thomas Adams and Mrs. Woley all played important roles throughout the movie. A very prominent character in the movie was Darcy Johnson, otherwise known as granny. Granny was a joyful, caring, religious and very prideful black woman who had an intense hunger for life. Granny had a huge part in raising Pinky, keeping her grounded to her roots and teaching her about dignity and self-importance. I believe that granny represents the stereotypical mammy, a fiercely independent and extremely domestic black woman. She took it upon herself to engrave her morals and values into Pinky so that she too can be a proud woman. I feel that Kazan wanted granny to symbolize self-pride. A pride in where she came from, where she is now, and in what the future holds for her. She is an inspirational woman who is selfless and genuine, and it shows in her love for those around her. An example of granny putting others before her is how she took care of Mrs. Em. Mrs. Em was an old, wealthy white woman who lived near granny and Pinky. In the beginning of the movie she was stubborn, cold and unfriendly. As the movie went on we were able to see a more nurturing side to her.