As we celebrate Black History Month, we wanted to take a moment to honor the amazing tapestry of the black community. As a company that helps women step into their fullest potential, it’s only right that we gather up the words of some of our favorite women from history, as well as present day, and let them speak for themselves.  

To our sisters, we see you, we honor you, and we are so thankful for the rich history you carry with you.    

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“In every human Breast, God has implanted a Principle, which we call Love of Freedom; it is impatient of Oppression, and pants for Deliverance.”  – Phillis Wheatley, American poet

 

“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.”  – Harriet Tubman, American abolitionist and political activist

 

“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.”  – Rosa Parks, Civil Rights Activist 

 

“Without courage we cannot practice any other virtue with consistency. We can’t be kind, true, merciful, generous, or honest.” – Maya Angelou, American poet, singer, memoirist, and civil rights activist

 

“Make up a story… For our sake and yours forget your name in the street; tell us what the world has been to you in the dark places and in the light. Don’t tell us what to believe, what to fear. Show us belief’s wide skirt and the stitch that unravels fear’s caul.” – Toni Morrison, American novelist, essayist, book editor, and college professor

 

“The thing you fear most has no power. Your fear of it is what has the power. Facing the truth really will set you free.” – Oprah Winfrey, American media executive, actress, talk show host, television producer, and philanthropist

 

“I maintained my edge by always being a student; you will always have something new to learn.” – Jackie Joyner-Kersee, American retired track and field athlete and olympic medalist

 

“The success of every woman should be the inspiration to another. We should raise each other up. Make sure you’re very courageous: be strong, be extremely kind, and above all be humble.”  – Serena Williams, American professional tennis player 

 

 

“I made my first film when I was 35, so I firmly believe that you don’t have to be one thing in life. If you’re doing something, and you have a desire to do something different, give it a try.” – Ava Duvernay, writer, producer, director and distributor of independent film

 

“There’s power in allowing yourself to be known and heard, in owning your unique story, in using your authentic voice. And there’s grace in being willing to know and hear others.” – Michelle Obama, former First Lady of the United States, lawyer, university administrator, and writer