Exploring Afrocentricity: An Analysis of the Discourse of Oprah Winfrey

Abstract

Oprah Winfrey is a world recognizable icon, having achieved success in many different arenas. Her ongoing accomplishments have global influence, and she is known for consistently using her powerful voice. As a skilled orator, Winfrey is often sought after for speaking engagements, including commencement ceremonies, and she has delivered numerous graduation speeches to diverse audiences. This article is the third in a series on exploring Afrocentricity in the rhetoric of recognizable black leaders. Specifically, through applying the tenets of Afrocentricity by Molefi Asante, this study examines two of Winfrey’s commencement speeches to examine the Afrocentric nature of her discourse.