My mother, brave woman, lost her whole family when she decided to marry a black man in the 60s. When the marriage fell apart, she had to come back to her family.

I felt devalued and disrespected. The energy behind it felt disingenuous and motivated by corporate profit.

That industry expects you to prove yourself over and over again. Do I stay doing this, or do I raise my daughter and live surrounded by people who love me? Wasn't even really a choice.

I took solace in my relationship with God who, along with my dog, was my best friend growing up.

A group of us started a community center in Santa Monica. We've tried different programs, and three have worked really well. A poetry group. Once a week we visit Venice High and talk to girls at risk.

Let those who know know, and let me keep what little privacy I can.

I'm part of an important movement that needs to happen.