I've always wanted to have the ability to do what I want to do. And there are so many things that I want to do because I love acting, I love directing, I love producing, I love being a mother, I love being a wife. If I had to choose one, just would put me in the crazy house.

Human spirit, things that aren't tangible, fascinate me, so I'm always researching mind, spirit, soul.

We all think there is a formula, (but) as long as we love our children, that's really the only solid thing I know that works across the board.

When I was growing up, my mother only put her foot down once: She said, "You are going to college." And that was a lifesaving moment. But she never talked to me about my clothes or hair. So I learned how to parent my kids through her.

There still aren't enough[ roles for women of color]. And I'd say that's the case, not only for African-American women, but for all women in the Hollywood game. It's just slim pickings, and a very challenging time for us. I think that's why more of us need to work our way behind the camera in order to create roles that really illuminate who women are. We still have room for growth in that area, without a doubt.

I never stop being a mother and I never stop being an artist. You understand? Which is probably why my kids are so creative, because it’s not separated.

We have to understand that we should, at all times, have the right and the power to make decisions about our bodies. And that is an idea that must be taught at a young age. You can't wait until a person is 18 years old and say, 'Now you have the right'. You have to start that from the gate.