In BCB’s latest series, “Body Noire” photographed by Kunle Ayodeji, we meet 5 black women, each with very different stories, as they talk about how they perceive their bodies.

According to Ishola,

Women are pushing back against society’s perception of the “perfect body” and celebrating themselves as they are.

But when you consider how society deems black female bodies, the issue of body positivity becomes even weightier. Many plus size women have spoken out about the fact that many of these mainstream body movements have excluded women of color to a large degree. But isn’t that usually the case with most things–that black women are the last in line to be celebrated in general? But not when it comes to the way we celebrate EACH OTHER. Just take a look at Ebony Magazine’s last issue titled, “Body Brigade.”

It’s in the spirit of that celebration that we bring you our third photo story titled, “Body Noire.” For this series you will meet five diverse women who’ve faced different obstacles in coming to accept their bodies. The inspiration came during Serena Williams’ domination of female tennis in 2015. As she embarked on yet another grand slam somehow her physique became the topic on social media and in mainstream publications. “Muscular,” “Manly,” and “Too Strong,” were the words used to describe her at a time when “champion” “inspiration” and “legend” should have been the sole verbiage associated with the legendary athlete. But as a black woman, she was held under a microscope for her appearance as many of us are.

Check out some more images from the series.