Ain't I a Woman w/Ambition

"You may write me down in history with your bitter, twisted lies... You may tread me in the very dirt, but still, like dust, I'll rise." - Maya Angelou.

I want to address a topic that may strike a sensitive chord, especially for those navigating the gender spectrum within the community. The intent is not to cause harm but to speak truth in a way that challenges and encourages growth. It’s about expanding perspectives—yours, mine, and others—by reflecting on ideas that may need to be unlearned to make room for a new way of thinking. In this process, we open the door for more personal and collective healing.

As a creator—whether through art, writing, or podcasts—I aim to inspire people to challenge their assumptions and grow, just as I am. Life isn’t about perfecting ourselves; it’s about serving others and striving to leave this world a little better than we found it. That often involves shedding outdated beliefs that no longer align with our highest aspirations. I truly believe that embracing this transformative process of learning and unlearning is the key to the healing our society deeply needs.

The spark for today’s conversation came from my ongoing exploration of works by author, professor, and feminist Bell Hooks. I’m currently reading Ain’t I a Woman and All About Love. These books are deeply thought-provoking, with All About Love diving into how our understanding of love impacts our relationships and struggles. Meanwhile, Ain’t I a Woman provides an in-depth analysis of the intersectionality of racism and sexism, particularly as they affect women of color.

In recent years, we’ve witnessed an inspiring surge in the resilience and progress of women of color. From bold moves in business to an unwavering celebration of strength and beauty, women of color are reclaiming their space in a world that has long been indifferent to their worth. Yet, despite these advancements, many of us still face the harsh reality of systemic inequality. Women of color continue to hold the lowest social status, suffering from the worst conditions related to income, mental health, and healthcare. As Malcolm X once said, "The most neglected person in America is the Black woman." Even today, his words ring true.

What strikes me most, however, is how these struggles persist—not only from society but from the very men within our own communities. This is a painful truth that is often left unspoken, yet it demands attention.

A recent conversation with a dear friend underscored something I’d been reflecting on. As women of color continue to rise in areas like education, business, and entrepreneurship, we can’t ignore the parallel question: What does this say about the experience of men within our community? It’s a conversation that I believe is necessary but must be approached with compassion, not as an attempt to bash anyone, but as an opportunity for growth.

The rise of women of color in various fields, while inspiring, calls for a deeper reflection. Why are women of color succeeding in an environment that continuously presents barriers based on race, gender, culture, and class? And what does this tell us about the men in our community who are navigating similar challenges?

As I considered this question, I realized there are two key reasons why women of color often rise despite the odds stacked against us:

1. The internal drive to overcome limitations designed to disempower us.
2. The deeply ingrained systemic oppression that continues to hinder full progress.

Bell Hooks explores these ideas further in Ain’t I a Woman, especially in her analysis of the devaluation of women of color. Through the lens of sexuality, stereotypes, and matriarchy, she helps us understand why we continue to be among the most undervalued people in society.

Let’s break it down:

Sexuality: The way society has historically viewed the sexuality of women of color plays a significant role in shaping our experiences. The objectification and sexualization of women of color have long been ingrained in American culture, which perpetuates harmful stereotypes. This objectification not only comes from white society but also from within our own communities, leading to a sense of abandonment when men of color pursue relationships outside of their race.

Stereotypes: Stereotypes about people of color—many of which are not grounded in truth—have shaped public perception for generations. These stereotypes, while harmful, continue to affect how we move through the world. But we must remember: no stereotype defines us. We define ourselves.

The rise of women of color in various sectors isn’t just about overcoming external barriers but also navigating the complexities within our own communities. By addressing these uncomfortable truths, we create room for more honest conversations that allow us to grow together, uplift one another, and chart a new course for future generations.