Monday, February 18, 2008

Happy Feminist Birthday

Audre Lorde 1934-1992

"I am a Black Feminist. I mean I recognize that my power as well as my primary oppressions come as a result of my blackness as well as my womaness, and therefore my struggles on both of these fronts are inseparable."

5 comments:

Sicily Sue said...

Oh! I love her!
Happy Birthday indeed :-)

I love this quote, "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 Future Was Yesterday said...

"I recognize that my power as well as my primary oppressions come as a result of my blackness."

I disagree with that profoundly, and it makes me angry. When are excuses going to be made for me because of my "whiteness?"

Human said...

Funny they did not teach me anything about Audre when I was in school back in the 70's.......
I'll have to read up on her.
Peace.

Human said...

Speaking of Birthdays...Guess what turns 50 today?

msliberty said...

Sicily Sue - That quote is included in the signature on all my emails!

TUA - I don't think she was making excuses, but rather acknowledging the ways in which multiple layers of oppression combine to inform our lives. I think she's saying that her racial identity and gender identity are equal sources of strength and struggle.

Human - She is wonderful poet. I hope you find something you'll enjoy in her writings...And happy birthday to PEACE!