Black Women in America: A special report

Black women heavier, happier with bodies than white women, poll finds

Lonnae O’Neal Parker

Although black women weigh more than white women, they have appreciably higher levels of self-esteem, according to Post-Kaiser Family Foundation survey.

Capital Heights, MD- FEBRUARY 15?Aerobics instructor Michelle Gibson is photographed in her class at Bally's in Capital Heights, Maryland on February 15, 2012.? Photos for a story about black women and body image.?(Photo by Marvin Joseph/The Washington Post)??Capital Heights, MD- FEBRUARY 17?Aerobics instructor Michelle Gibson is photographed in a studio where she teaches her class at Bally's in Capital Heights, Maryland on February 17, 2012.? Photos for a story about black women and body image.?(Photo by Marvin Joseph/The Washington Post)??

America’s black women: Peeling back the labels

America’s black women: Peeling back the labels

Krissah Thompson

SPECIAL REPORT | A national survey by The Washington Post and the Kaiser Family Foundation reveals the most essential aspects of black women’s lives in the D.C. region and across America: career, religion, family, and concern about personal finances and discrimination.

Michelle Obama’s appeal

Michelle Obama’s appeal

Krissah Thompson and Vanessa Williams

Part Two | For many black women, the first lady is a role model, helping to change the stereotypes.

Bearing a heavy burden for family

Bearing a heavy burden for family

Ylan Q. Mui and Chris L. Jenkins

Part Three | The recession has left behind a cracked foundation for many black women.

Photo galleries

An uneasy road to popularity

Michelle Obama’s path to popularity and its affect on her husband's re-election campaign.

A willingness to help

Some black women feel a responsibility to help family members in need.

A varied portrait

Survey results paint a complex portrait of black women in America.