In the words of Beyonce, “Unique! That’s what you are!”
As the world welcomes Women’s History Month, it is only fitting to begin this month-long celebration by reflecting on the profound words of Black women who have left invaluable marks on the fabric of time. Here are seven quotes to take with you in Women’s History Month–and every day!
Maya Angelou
“I am a woman, phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, that’s me.
Maya Angelou, an iconic poet and civil rights activist, is highly regarded for her eloquent prose. Her words, especially the empowering declaration, “I am a woman, phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, that’s me,” continue to inspire generations.
Audre Lorde
“I am not free while any woman is unfree, even when her shackles are very different from my own.”
Audre Lorde, a trailblazing poet and feminist theorist, fearlessly challenged societal norms. Her enduring statement, “I am not free while any woman is unfree, even when her shackles are very different from my own,” echoes a commitment to intersectional feminism and equality.
Nina Simone
“I’ll tell you what freedom is to me: no fear.”
Nina Simone, the legendary singer, and civil rights activist, used her voice to articulate the struggles of her time. Her defining words, “I’ll tell you what freedom is to me: no fear,” resonate as a catalyst for breaking fear’s barriers.
Shirley Chisholm
“If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.”
Shirley Chisholm, a history-making politician and educator, was the first Black woman elected to the United States Congress. Her empowering directive, “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair,” remains a rallying cry for inclusion and representation.
Serena Williams
“I really think a champion is defined not by their wins but by how they can recover when they fall.”
Serena Williams, an unparalleled tennis champion, has redefined sports with her skill and tenacity. Her insightful reflection, “I really think a champion is defined not by their wins but by how they can recover when they fall,” shares the perseverance needed in womanhood.
Mae Jemison
“Never be limited by other people’s limited imaginations.”
Mae Jemison, a pioneering astronaut and physician, shattered stereotypes as the first Black woman in space. Her visionary belief, “Never be limited by other people’s limited imaginations,” encourages others to reach for the stars–even literally.
Angela Davis
“I am no longer accepting the things I cannot change. I am changing the things I cannot accept.”
Angela Davis, an influential scholar, and activist has dedicated her life to advocating for justice and equality. Her powerful stance, “I am no longer accepting the things I cannot change. I am changing the things I cannot accept,” embodies a commitment to action that can change the world.
Let’s draw inspiration from the words of these remarkable women to build a world that values our fierceness and innovation. May Mae Jemison’s boundless imagination inspire our own journeys, and Angela Davis’ determination to challenge the unacceptable motivate us to take meaningful actions. Because of them, we can remember not even the sky is the limit!
Cover photo: Author Audre Lorde / Credit: Penguin Classics