This one is for the ladies, resilient yet soft, powerful yet peaceful, smart yet wise. 

It’s Women’s History Month, and I can’t think of another way to finish up March then with the nomination of Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court and the confirmation of Shalanda Young as the first Black Woman to lead the Office of  Management and Budget. (shouts in happiness)

As we seem to be knocking on the door to WWIII, we are also preparing for another historical battle with the US Senate for Ketanji Brown Jackson’s nomination. Be clear: she’s worth it. The possibility (and let’s speak this into existence) of confirming the first Black Woman for the United States Supreme Court gives me chills. And sis will be in several other battles right on the other side of taking that oath!

Speaking of Ketanji Brown Jackson, when I reflect on the beautiful moments illustrated throughout the month, I feel so inspired. Inspired by all the women making waves this month, I must honor and show love to the women who inspire me. You know I have a long list of women who have pushed me forward, (there’s Queen Maxine, Empress Oprah, and of course, Harriet whose arrival we eagerly await on the $20), but I, wouldn’t be me, without these three impactful women: 

My mother

When we talk about doing the work, my Mom has done the work. As an educator, activist, advocate and the backbone of my family, I cannot think of a stronger, more deserving person to honor this month than Dr. Andrea Rye aka Mama Rye (I love you, girrrrrl). Her peaceful, calm energy speaks volumes in any room. I am inspired by mother’s intelligence, grace, wisdom, and beautiful spirit. 

My namesake– Angela Davis is the bomb…

And there’s a little of her spirit in me and so many of us. We are still on the journey, together, to demand everything that is owed to us, both as women and as people of color.  I’m inspired by her devotion to the ongoing fight for real racial equity.  I challenge each of us to tap into her spirit, and continue to change the things we can not accept. Shoutout to Papa Rye for naming me after this Queen!

You!

Now everyone who’s reading this may not identify as a woman (shoutout to all  the family) but when I tell you I’m inspired everyday to keep fighting, keep growing and keep paving the way for you! You all have been cheering me on every step of the way. Thank you for inspiring me everyday. This month belongs to us ladies,  and this month make sure you make yourself a priority. Take some time to show yourself and the women in your life some real appreciation. YOU DESERVE IT! 

I’m always inspired by the long standing support that communities of color gain from Historically Black Colleges and Universities. In February, I took my godsons on a college tour to some of the best HBCUs in the nation. In the midst of them being attached to their phones, and eating ALL the things, we were able to have some real discussions about their academic journey to college and the path after graduation. Thinking I was taking my godsons on a trip to teach them something, I came back feeling like they taught me a few things! (Do y’all know what “keeping it P” means? Now I do…I think! )

The next generation is full of creative, daring, ambitious  youth who are ready to make the changes we have been fighting for. I’m inspired by their ability and resilience  to march forward and pursue their dreams in life. As part of our own journey, we have to remember to  keep inspiring the next generation coming behind us, just like those before us. Even when you think they aren’t listening, they are.

On a personal note, February was a tough month since I spoke to you in our last newsletter. After missing for almost three weeks, I lost my beloved Uncle Jerry Rye. Although my grief is ongoing and filled with a range of emotions, I will continue to be inspired by Uncle Jerry’s passionate love for life. I want to personally thank everyone for their thoughts, messages and prayers for my family.  I’m beyond grateful for the love and support you have shown me throughout this difficult time.  

To be Black, elder and presumed poor should not be a fast track to being ignored, and unfortunately, this story is not personal to my Uncle Jerry. There are so many missing people of color whose story has been completely ignored. To honor Uncles Jerry’s memory and to honor him on what would have been his 78th birthday on March 15, please donate to the Black and Missing Foundation, Inc. 

BAMF is a non-profit organization whose mission is to bring awareness to missing persons of color. I’m inspired by their continuous work to put the spotlight on the inequities around educating minority communities on personal safety.

Sending you all the love, joy, freedom, justice, and power you can stand.

Righteously and cheerfully,