THE WOMEN OF SPIKE LEE

Spike Lee may be many things (MANY THINGS) and his films might not always hit the right note for folks (ChiRaq)— but one thing is for sure: He's always had a place for women of color in his films. And not just WOC, but women who are layered, complex and ... relatable. I especially appreciate the fact that he's made sure to highlight women of different shades to take lead. So, since today is his birfffday — why not shout out the women in his many films. Enjoy!

TINA - DO THE RIGHT THING

Mookie's girlfriend and mother to Hector (Mookie's son). She reminds him of how annoying he is, even though she obviously loves Mookie.

DR. BETTY SHABAZZ - MALCOLM X

Wife to Malcolm X, a woman of the faith.

LYSISTRATA - CHI RAQ

Sis does not play. She got the girlfriends of rivaling gangs to withold the nani until the men stopped shooting up each other and the neighborhood.

NOLA DARLING - SHE'S GOTTA HAVE IT

Sexually liberated and making art, she's all of us.

JANE TOUSSAINT - SCHOOL DAZE

Questionable personality...  this kind of woman does exist.

CAROLYN - CROOKLYN

Strict and protective, we know a mom like Carolyn.

INDIGO DOWNES - MO' BETTA BLUES

The girlfriend who deals with the bullshit... or rather doesn't, but ultimately forgives. 

LALA BONILLA - HE GOT GAME

The original Joanne the Scammer

MOTHER SISTER - DO THE RIGHT THING

Mother Sister keeps an eye out for the neighborhood from her brownstone.

VIVIAN - JUNGLE FEVER

Fact: Halle fought to play Vivian (a character addicted to crack).