So, Black History Month is swiftly coming to an end (not surprising, since it is on the shortest month in the year), so I thought that it would be interesting to ask my siblings Blessing, Paul, Timothy and friend Asia just what it is that they think make their black so beautiful. I also saw this as an encouraging way of holding the people you hold dear accountable for the way that they see themselves, especially when not too long ago a lot of people saw them in a whole different way.
Blessing:
“Having the strength to conquer battles, having culture, natural hair and ultimately feeling beautiful on my own terms.”
Paul:
“Being able to defy the odds, when not so long ago we weren’t able to do that and having a strong soul. Having confidence in being different.”
Timothy:
“It is me.”
I then also asked my dear friend Asia is she had anything to contribute over the topic.
Asia:
“I think just being strong through everything, because we already have a tough time as a black person, and then as a woman in itself. So, being strong and trying not to let everything get us down, and still on top of that being the best that we can be. Look wise, we are coming with everything, like every shade is beautiful, then intelligent wise we are moving up as black women. A lot more African American woman are going to school and going for their dreams. It’s like seeing a flower go through concrete. Anything is possible!”
Lastly, I will conclude why I know that my Black is beautiful:
Not too long ago, people who looked like me were stripped of the privileges and the rights that I have today. But because of their bravery and sacrifice, the possibilities that I have over my life are endless. Something beautiful came out of that struggle. Our black is beautiful.
Photo by: Blessing Meregini