I find strength and hope in my position as a Black woman.

Posts are the original thoughts and writings of Rev. Kelly Bates Oglesby

I had no model, being born in Babylon, both non-white and a woman.
What did I see to be except myself? So I made it up, right here on a bridge
between star shine and clay, my one hand holding the other. Oh, come and
celebrate with me, that everyday something has tried to kill me …
but it has failed. (Lucille Clifton)

Below is an original writing by Rev. Kelly Bates Oglesby:

Black women have and continue to provide evolutionary as well revolutionary visions for themselves. Ours is an overlooked, under-considered, and undefined position - yet it is always a position below, a step behind, a dollar short, and marginalized.

I find strength and hope in my position as a Black woman.
When I consider the expectations for women of color and then observe the women who excelled beyond race and gender, I realize there are no barriers unless I set them.

I find strength and hope in my position as a Black woman.
Reading the powerful and provocative words of women who were not supposed to read or write. These women whose voices were regarded as valueless, I am inspired to learn more that I might speak with understanding.

I find strength and hope in my position as a Black woman.
Feeling the spirit and awe in the sculptures, sketches, and paintings of women regarded as barbaric births creative appreciation in my spirit as I see my innermost twinges depicted before me.

I find strength and hope in my position as a Black woman.
Watching scientific sisters ready themselves for space, surgery, and safari, I am gratified that knowledge is neither race nor gender based.

I find strength and hope in my position as a Black woman.
Sitting in the home of Black wives and mothers who create the refuge and sanctuary from a society that is so cruel, I am hopeful that we will continue to achieve what others doubted we even dreamed.

I find strength and hope in my position as a Black woman.
I so love the camaraderie, the complexion, the conversation, and the consciousness that comes from being a Black woman…living life, learning and loving the challenges that come to me because I am a Black woman. Challenges that cause me to rise and overcome without example or expectation and knowing when I do my sisters from the ancient of days through all eternity will celebrate.