Black and Proud

Being who I am, I couldn’t just let Black History Month (and now Women’s History Month) come and go and not acknowledge the two months of the year that have been dedicated to me. The fight of the Black woman has spanned generations and unfortunately, continues. As I look around, I realize that the fight has endured because of the contributions and “never give up” mantra of the many of the historical giants who have come before me. For that, I thank them. I thank them for breaking barriers and allowing me to look into a mirror and love my black self!

In 2011, black is beautiful. We have so many women (and men) who are iconic and are black beauty. As a result, I love being Black more and more everyday. Now don’t get me wrong, I haven’t been subjected to “real” Black struggle in my life, especially considering that I was born and raised in south central VA. I went to a private school at a young age where race was never mentioned. I was even voted to homecoming court at a school where none of the teachers whom I loved looked like me - I never saw them as different.

Now, my struggle with “being Back” came from other Black individuals after leaving private school. My hair was too nappy or I was too dark, etc. As Black people, we must embrace other people who look like us - the beautiful mix of browns, hair textures, styles, etc. regardless of our differences and abilities. Embrace Black and whatever it means to you.

Men all over the world, love us and all our glory. Don’t throw us to the wayside because we are outspoken, opinionated and refuse to settle for bullshit. This is who we are. This is why we have advanced thus far.

Black women embrace yourself and love it. Yes, my neck spins and pops when I talk and get angry. I have a major bitch hidden (deep) down inside who is willing to make her presence known. I have head of nappy hair that I will hit with that creamy crack and sew, clip or braid in some extensions or let blow in the wind in some sort of Afro looking style. When the music plays, my hips and feet find the beat. My skin is brown, my eyes and my hair are too.... I love MY Black!

So embrace YOU! If you start there I am sure HAPPINESS won’t be too far behind.