"When I dare to be powerful, to use my strength in the service of my vision, then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid." - Audre Lorde
The words of Audre Lorde ring close to my heart as I reflect on the impact of this year’s recognition of Women’s Equality Day. It was 50 years ago that the 19th Amendment was passed, granting women the right to vote. Thinking of all the pioneering women before me who created a path for my voice to be heard, I echo the words ‘Thank You.’
As a disabled black woman, I’ve felt more empowered within the past decade as I have witnessed the presence of women being valued in more significant measure. There has never been a day like today in which it is now cool to be a girl. And to add an extra layer of sauce, this era of the woman– it’s even cooler to be a disabled girl – okay maybe I’m a little biased because I am a disabled girl. But I can remember growing up and thinking the experience of womanhood was something to be ashamed of and hide – and now I want to share my identity as a fully realized woman with the rest of the world. Because like Audre Lorde alluded to – being a woman is powerful, and to be a disabled woman is transformative.