I always want to stay focused on who I am, even as I'm discovering who I am.

Gangsta rap was a ploy to convince black people to kill each other. Gangsta rap didnt exist.

I believe AIDS is the most important issue we face, because how we treat the poor is a reflection of who we are as a people.

I dream about speaking in big forums about issues that need to be spoken about. I dream about helping others who I know and love, helping them realize their dreams. I dream about being able to express myself through acting and writing, definitely. I dream about bringing more realism into the world. Sometimes I just feel like certain things are so glossed over and covered up and swept under the rug and I just want to bring them out.

My mother was raised very, very strict Catholic in the Midwest. There was so much fear and intimidation [in the faith]. So, growing up, I was always looking for my connection. I've found myself praying before meals, before bed; there's always been this gratitude for things that are bigger than me.

Everything you want to be, you already are. You're simply on the path to discovering it.

Love is accepting people for who they are and what they are, regardless.