I stand here as a black lesbian feminist, having been invited to comment within the only panel at this conference where the input of black feminists and lesbians is represented. What this says about the vision of this conference is sad, in a country where racism, sexism and homophobia are inseparable. . . .

The absence of any consideration of lesbian consciousness or the consciousness of third world women leaves a serious gap within this conference. . . .

When we create out of our experiences, as feminists of color, women of color, we have to develop those structures that will present and circulate our culture.

We must constantly encourage ourselves and each other to attempt the heretical actions that our dreams imply and so many of our old ideas disparage.

Only by learning to live in harmony with your contradictions can you keep it all afloat.

I am a bleak heroism of words that refuse to be buried alive with the liars.

Without community, there is no liberation.