Mammy Dearest

December 5, 1991
30 min
Season 5 - Episode 11: Mammy Dearest

Season 5 - Episode 11: Mammy Dearest

A Different World - Backdrop

Overview

Dwayne seeks a friendship with Whitley, but she doesn't feel like hearing him out. She throws herself into organizing her dorm's official dedication ceremony. Kim and others object when she includes images of ""mammies"" (black nursemaids in the past, particularly during times of slavery) with the art exhibit. Whitley, Freddie and Mr. Gaines insist that it is important to remember these women's role in history. Kim wants no part of the display and announces that she will not participate in the ceremony. She tearfully confides in Mr. Gaines about a traumatic incident from her childhood. Whitley recommends that Lena learn more about her heritage by reading slave journals and other information at the Gilbert Library. Lena's research uncovers the fact that Whitley's family owned slaves. Whitley is shocked and overcome with guilt. Mr. Gaines advises her to let it go, as she cannot change the past. Kim, Freddie, Lena and Gina organize a performance art piece about the evolution of the African

Episode Information

TV Show

A Different World

Season

Season 5

Episode Number

11

Air Date

December 5, 1991

Runtime

30 minutes

Guest Stars

Ajai Sanders

Ajai Sanders

Gina Devereaux

Jada Pinkett Smith

Jada Pinkett Smith

Lena James

Crew

Debbie Allen

Debbie Allen

Director