I had felt for a long time, that if I was ever told to get up so a white person could sit, that I would refuse to do so.

Racial pride and self-dignity were emphasized in my family and community.

I will no longer act on the outside in a way that contradicts the truth that I hold deeply inside. I will no longer act as if I were less than the whole person I know myself inwardly to be.

Whatever my individual desires were to be free, I was not alone. There were many others who felt the same way.

The only tired I was, was tired of giving in.

When I see the leadership roles black women are taking today I am very encouraged.

Knowing what must be done does away with fear.