Circle of Roses Revised and Ambitious Sisters

Circle of Roses Revised and AMBITIOUS SISTERS

“BLACK WOMEN BREATHE FLOWERS, TOO.” ― NAYYIRAH WAHEED, SALT

"Until the lioness learns to write her own story, tales of the hunt will always glorify the hunter."

- African Proverb

In collaboration with:

The ConTextos Authors Circle was developed in collaboration with young people at-risk of, victims of, or perpetrators of violence in El Salvador. In 2017, this innovative program expanded into Chicago to create tangible, high quality opportunities that nourish the minds,expand the voices and share the personal truths of individuals who have long been underserved and underestimated. Through the process of drafting, revising, and publishing

LIONESS SPEAKS

memoirs, participants develop self-reflection, critical thinking, camaraderie, and positive self-projection to author new life narratives.

With the support of Chicago CRED, this third Circle of Roses grew out of the need for women to have a space dedicated solely to their hearts, minds, spirits, and voices. Circle of Roses brings together a seemingly disparate collection of women only to discover the ties that bind them together as beautiful, thoughtful, and intelligent Black women of Chicago. Housed in a former church on 95th street, with gloriously colorful stained glass setting the scene, Circle of Roses saw the coming together of women to speak truths, to engage, to feed souls, and lift spirits. Through close reading, expressive writing, rich conversation, deep reflection, and meaningful artmaking, the women explored questions of identity and how they see and define themselves as Black women, all with the demands and complexity of everyday life in Chicago as a backdrop. This process wasn’t easy, but it was rewarding, resulting in the elegant book you hold.

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Circle of Roses Authors Circle is a sacred space, in that Authors are asked to bravely share their truths.

This cannot happen artificially; it is an organic development made possible by individuals trusting one another and themselves enough to be candid when it is so easy to hide.

Circle of Roses 3.0 exemplifies that process. Navigating the complexities of living full lives in Chicago, each Author met the challenge of co-creating a space gentle enough to allow for voices to be heard AND strong enough to hold those voices and one another with grace.

The central theme of this iteration of Circle of Roses was Black Womanhood. In a society that has many predetermined narratives about what that identity means, it was powerful to hear the realities of Black womanhood told through the lens of individuals negotiating that multifaceted identity. There is no singular way of being a Black woman even though there are common images that abound. Black women are said to be angry, aggressive, ill-tempered, hyper-sexual, and simultaneously strong and independent, not needing or wanting support and care. The women of Circle of Roses grappled with these skewed identifiers and live lives that dispel them.

Circle of Roses 3.0 embodied Authors Circle values. The women came into space unreserved to diverse perspectives, accepting of differences, and willing to see ways in which each of them is connected to the other. This was a privilege to witness. The resulting compilation reflects their openness and willingness to both engage and be engaging. Turn the pages within and witness their transparency for yourselves. Enjoy the reading.

Peace and Blessings, slm moore

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

7

E.

11

JAWAII

18

JESSICA

26

LELE

32

LEXUS

37

LII

42

MISHA

49

MONEY

57

MS. COFFEE

63

NICOLE

70

NUK

78

SHYRA

84

WHIT'LEE

92

WYIA

94

E.

E.

E.

6 WORD MEMOIR

“DON’T LET YOUR PAST DEFINE YOU.”

E. I am from Wanda and Lydia Mae From pain and loyalty I am from Granny’s crib.

I am from the struggle,

I AM FROM POEM

The mud turned into flowers was stuck But came from under and blossomed I’m from Wanda and Grandma Doll Patterson From scratching lottery tickets with a quarter Painted with red polish for good luck And from Granny snapping her fingers with her tongue sticking out I’m from “Nice girls finish last” And from “Play the game, don’t let it play you.”

I’m from counting your blessings, keeping faith I’m from Chi, 1422 E. 67th Place, Granny’s house From Aunty, Uncle, Terrise, Henry, Santrelle, Wanda.

I am from distant love, but real love.

Hurt.

13

E.

God, since you asked, I’ll tell you why I’m so lost.

Because my struggle went to ink on my skin.

SINCE YOU ASKED

Because I wanted to blend in.

Because no one could find me.

Because I couldn’t find myself.

Because I was in the background of life where no one saw me.

Because no one heard my words.

Because they wanted to just judge.

Because eyes are the window to the soul. They say everything without saying a word at all.

14

E.

BLACK WOMANHOOD Being a black woman to me means to be independent, to be able to stand up for ourselves no matter how much society tries to knock us down. Being a black woman means to be strong, to hold our ground, and protect our image. Being black women we as one walk through the storm and make it out untouched every time.

SISTERHOOD Sisterhood is a bond. A sisterhood resembles sticking together no matter what. To accept. To love and not judge. To be supportive. To hold it down.

No matter the race, background, struggle, or experiences. Sisterhood is when you uplift one another.

15

E.

DEAR FUTURE SELF

Dear Future Self,

You did it. Keep it going. You’re focused. You overcame your trauma and your battle. You're winning. I remember I used to give up, now we keep it pushing. Your past made you stronger and what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. Don’t stop thriving. Always remember you never gave up on yourself, even when the world did. You didn’t use your past as an excuse.

You put your best foot forward.

Sincerely, Past Self

16

COLLAGE 2023

BY: E.

Jawaii

JAWAII

6 WORD MEMOIR

“LOYAL, FUNNY, LOUD, BRAVE, STRONG, GRATEFUL.”

JAWAII

I am from my granny, From crying, playing, and good vibes.

I am from Chicago, loud, ghetto,

I AM FROM POEM

I am from the backyard, Where we have the most fun playing in the water and dirt, I’m from my big sister and my little sister.

I’m from where my granny said, “You keep being in boys’ face You gon’ get what you asking for.”

I do have three kids.

I’m from I was just a believer, but now I believe in God ‘Cause he makes things happen all the time.

I’m from Chicago, St. Bernards, that’s just my place of birth.

I’m from pizza.

From all my teachers growing up.

I am from okay.

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JAWAII

Granny, since you asked, I’ll tell you why I’m so mad.

Because you not here to help me with my kids.

SINCE YOU ASKED

Because when I want to eat your cooking, I can’t.

Because my kids will never know how cool of a granny you were.

Because the granny things I have learned from you now my kids have to get from me.

Because you should be here; it’s just better coming from you.

Because it’s just better coming from you; I’m young too, so they have to learn lessons.

Because it will all be ok.

Because I might have acted like I wasn’t listening, but I was.

You did a damn good job with getting the words you were saying to get me to listen.

Now I’m a growing woman still willing to learn.

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BLACK WOMANHOOD

JAWAII

First, I will say what a black woman was shown to me growing up and what I am today. That’s a woman who wants a man but doesn’t need a man to do all the things they (people) say you need a man for. Black womanhood is being strong for your family, the one you was brought into and the one you have made. Black womanhood is independent, standing on your own even when you thought you had people to hide you.

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JAWAII

There are two types of sisterhood. There are your sister sisters that you

SISTERHOOD

grew a bond with and there is the sisterhood you grow with women you come across to build a bond with. I have three sisters but only really grew up with my oldest sister. The others later on in life we grew a bond that I wouldn’t take back for anything, ‘cause it’s something to have a woman who you can talk to and know, to feel that she would never try to hurt you on purpose. But finding women that you can relate to that’s not any kin to you is important because having a strong woman in your corner is a good feeling. Women get the job done. We are what makes the world go round.

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JAWAII

DEAR FUTURE SELF

Dear Future Self,

Hey, I know you’re doing better than you was when I wrote this. You should be a business owner by now. Also a home owner. I know this cause you’re strong, smart, and don’t let anything get past you. Keep your third eye open at all times. There is no trust in this world. Keep going for what you want and believe in.

Sincerely, Past Self

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COLLAGE, 2023

BY: JAWAII

Jessica

JESSICA

6 WORD MEMOIR

“PRETTY, BLUNT, HUMBLE, INDEPENDENT, OPTIMISTIC, SPONTANEOUS.”

JESSICA

I am from Laronda and Jesse

I AM FROM POEM

From Roseland and the 100’s I am from 11831 South LaSalle I am from the heart of the hood.

I’m from Carline and Jataun From family vacations and road trips And from loving and caring parents I’m from loyalty and commitment I’m from Chicago From cookouts and birthday parties From Twin and Bigrock I am from the trenches

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JESSICA

SINCE YOU ASKED

Mom, since you asked, I’ll tell you why I’m so happy.

Because I finally have a job I like.

Because my credit score is improving.

Because I finally let go of the past.

Because my life is coming together as I planned.

Because I’m starting school to get my Associate’s degree.

Because I have a hardworking mother who supports me in everything.

Because my siblings are doing good.

Because I’m alive and healthy.

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JESSICA

BLACK WOMANHOOD Being a Black woman to me means everything to me. It’s the way I walk through life. It’s the way I think, hear, speak, see, and feel.

SISTERHOOD Sisterhood to me means to share, to care, to love, to feel for one another unconditionally. Sisterhood is an unifying love. There’s no limit to sisterhood.

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COLLAGE, 2023

BY: JESSICA

LeLe

LeLe

LELE

6 WORD MEMOIR

“PRETTY, BLUNT, HUMBLE, INDEPENDENT, OPTIMISTIC, SPONTANEOUS.”

LELE

I AM FROM POEM

I am from Laronda and Jesse From Roseland and the 100’s I am from 11831 South LaSalle I am from the heart of the hood.

I’m from Carline and Jataun From family vacations and road trips And from loving and caring parents I am from Peaches & Wack From Mom and step Dad I am from 11-9 Glockway I am from Roseland The ghetto I’m from Teleaha and Amari From graduating And from silly I’m from “being nice” And “Be quiet.”

I’m from Blessings I’m from Chicago From chicken From Teleaha, Amari I am from being decent I’m from Chicago From cookouts and birthday parties From Twin and Bigrock I am from the trenches

34

LELE _______________ since you asked, I’ll tell you why I’m so angry.

Because I got shot.

Because I wasn’t supposed to be there.

SINCE YOU ASKED

Because I hate going with him.

Because I hate talking.

Because I’m depressed.

Because I feel alone.

Because I should have died.

Because I don’t care.

Because I have no more feelings.

Because I feel less of a woman.

Because I’m strong.

Because I’m still trying.

Because I am trying to do better.

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LELE BLACK WOMANHOOD Being a black woman is hard. We go through so much and try to keep it together.

Being a black woman is being strong, independent, or fatherless.

Being a black woman is a struggle but we try.

SISTERHOOD Sisterhood is everything to me. My peace, my happiness, my release and venting space. With good energy, good smoke, good laughs and energy. My girls. Where would I be without my sisters!??

DEAR FUTURE SELF Dear Future Leneaha,

You are strong! This is only the beginning. You have so many things to accomplish in the rest of your beautiful life. Your kids are so cute, and they are living their best life, starting today.

36

Lexus

LEXUS

6 WORD MEMOIR

LOVE, LOYAL ELEGANT XCELLENT UNIQUE SMART

LEXUS

Being a black woman means to be resilient, strong, multifaceted, creative,

BLACK WOMANHOOD

courageous, nurturing and fun loving.

Resilient because as black women we tend to go through a lot and we almost always overcome these battles.

Multifaceted because we often have to be everything to everybody: a cook, a therapist, a friend, a nurse, etc.

Creative because many black women are good at multiple things such as cooking, writing, painting, and building things.

Nurturing and fun loving because we are awesome mothers and caretakers.

39

LEXUS

Sisterhood is a group of females who love, support, and vent to each other.

SISTERHOOD

They can be friends and family. My sisterhood consists of my best friend, my cousin and a long time friend that I’ve known for 10 plus years. I don’t have real sisters so these girls mean a lot to me.

When life sharts life-ing, we get together, go outside and have a good time. When we having relationship problems, we’re a listening ear and give each other advice. We babysit for each other if someone needs it. We’re there for one another when no one else is.

40

COLLAGE, 2023

BY: LEXUS

Lii

LII

6 WORD MEMOIR

“LOYAL, LOVING, KINDHEARTED, BEAUTIFUL, BLACK WOMAN.”

LII

I am from the city and the burbs, From the streets and the block

I AM FROM POEM

I am from the Back Block, Both 7950 and 3910.

I’m from Glenn Ross and Sandra Cotton.

From cooking in the kitchen, And from never biting my tongue.

I’m from “They hit you, hit them back.

And from “Mind nobody’s business but your own.

I’m from the upper Man above.

I’m from Chicago.

From Flamin’ Hots wit cheese, Koolaid, and pickles.

From Momma Connie.

I am from a real rose out the concrete.

44

LII NyNy Dada, since you asked, I’ll tell you why I’m so disappointed in you.

Because I believed you.

Because I believed in you.

SINCE YOU ASKED

Because I thought we was more than how you show to the others looking in.

Because I trusted you with my heart.

Because I know you’ll never change.

Because I kept giving you chance after chance.

Because I don’t believe “I love you” anymore.

Because every man in my eyes is like you.

Because my trust is destroyed.

Because you played in my face.

Because you made my love turn to hate.

Because you messed us up, never to be great.

Because it’ll never be us again.

Because co-parenting is our only fate.

Because you put the eat in cheat.

45

LII

BLACK WOMANHOOD

Dear Future Self,

What do you see when you look at me? Is it my thighs, my eyes, or the temptation I give your eyes. Behind this outer beauty is a mother, hard worker, hustler, provider, humble, a real rider. Carrying a household on my back while still setting a plate on the table. Making sure my kids is clean, well fed and comfortable to sleep, all while still keeping up an appearance to catch the eye of any man.

I am a smart woman, independent, strong and proud. I am a mother, caring, loving and supportive. I am attractive, hard to keep your eyes off of. But most importantly, I am all these things in one. I am the definition of Black womanhood. I am great; I am a Black woman.

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SISTERHOOD

LII

Sisterhood is a circle of trust, loyalty and love. Being able to tell each other stuff and know that it’s safe. Being able to confide and tell them my side of view and point. Feeling safe around them. No jealousy or envious vibes. Not having to look over your shoulder Just knowing you’re around. Loving, warm feeling women are what I feel sisterhood is.

47

LII

Dear Future Self,

Don’t ever think you can’t. Always know you can do whatever you put your

DEAR FUTURE SELF

mind to. You went back to school and now look at you. Still pushing and pulling through. You gone be successful more than you ever thought to be.

Never let no man play with you and remember don’t believe a word they say. Always put your kids and self first. Nobody got your back like you got your back. Sometimes it’s best to cut ties with certain people to get the poison out of the wound. Meaning toxic, negative things out your life. In order to have a better life always a mother first before anything else. Love yourself.

Signed, Past Self

48

Misha

MISHA

6 WORD MEMOIR

“PRETTY, BLUNT, HUMBLE, INDEPENDENT, OPTIMISTIC, SPONTANEOUS.”

MISHA

I am from Angel and Delaney.

From love and blood.

I am from Chiraq / the trenches

I AM FROM POEM

I am from my granny and momma’s crib.

From the wild, wild 100s.

I’m from Chenchaz and Angel.

From participating in church and going on trips.

I am from tough love and debates.

I’m from “I brought you in this world, I can take you out.”

And from “Treat others with the same respect you want.”

I’m from God. I’m from Chiraq.

From ramen noodles and soul food.

From Angel and Doc. I am from past trauma and surviving.

51

MISHA Chenchaz, since you asked, I’ll tell you why I’m so angry and emotional.

Because I’m mad you left me.

Because I’m not myself anymore.

SINCE YOU ASKED

Because I’m a changed person.

Because I have to adapt to a new world.

Because you left without saying goodbye.

Because I can’t grieve.

Because I’m so distant, I don’t allow people close to me.

Because I’m angry and mad.

Because I can’t have fun anymore.

Because I’m not exciting and social how I should be.

Because I can’t get over it.

Because I have to deal with it.

Because chemo doesn’t work for everyone.

Because no one will ever find a cure for cancer.

Because now I have to be brave on my own.

52

MISHA

I think being a black woman is very hard sometimes, because most of us face a stereotype from what other black women do, like prostitution, etc.

Also being a black woman in this world you have to be strong and have

BLACK WOMANHOOD

your guards up at all times. Because we try to prepare ourselves two steps ahead before we see a struggle. We have no time off, especially with a child. But being a black woman is so inspiring especially from what our ancestors survived like slavery, rape, domestic violence, etc. Also being able to provide on your own for yourself or your child, especially when the father is not involved.

Us as black women have to wear our big girl panties 24/7, because us black women have been taken advantage of and not seen for who we are or how strong we are. Like women in general, say if a woman ran for president like Hillary Clinton did, no woman ever won because people think women can’t run the world. Which is why we are the most mature human beings and the strongest human beings on earth. Us as black women have to make sacrifices out of our lives just to succeed in this world as a strong black woman. I don’t know if I made any sense but this is what being a black woman means to me.

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MISHA

I never experienced sisterhood, but I do have a sister I never grew up with

SISTERHOOD

on my father’s side. We communicate from time to time, but I wouldn’t say we have a sisterhood. Because sisterhood to me means that’s your very first best friend, you can tell anything to your friend. I feel like you can tell your sister anything, sometimes things you probably don’t want your parents, family, or even friends to know. Also, you can have sisterhood with someone that’s not blood. But sisterhood is another best friend to me. Someone you can call on if you need anything, someone to share secrets with or to talk to. Someone to even give needed advice and sometimes to protect you.

That’s what sisters do.

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MISHA Dear Future Self,

I don’t really have nothing to say because I feel like the video explained everything about me as far as me living my life to the fullest and enjoying every moment because my life hasn’t been enjoyable ever since my brother

DEAR FUTURE SELF

left me.

Also to my future self, it’s okay to say no and not be there sometimes because my peace matters first. And sometimes I tend to put people first and myself last, so future self always protect your peace and enjoy life to the fullest because that’s what my brother would want. And it’s always okay to say no. Don’t ever feel bad afterwards or have guilt about that person.

Dear Future Self, your peace matters and always put yourself first. They will understand.

Sincerely, Past Self

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COLLAGE, 2023

BY: MISHA

Money

MONEY

6 WORD MEMOIR

“LOVE YOURSELF FOR WHO YOU ARE.”

MONEY

I am from Nene from fun and laughter I am from Circle Park

I AM FROM POEM

I am from the blue skies that make you dream high I’m from Big Reesa and Delly From sleepovers And from love and care I’m from “Girls can’t do what boys do” And from “You talk too much.”

I’m from live life I’m from Cook County From nachos and tacos From Bobby I am from when you fall, get back up.

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SINCE YOU ASKED

MONEY

Mom, since you asked, I’ll tell you why I’m so confused.

Because I didn’t go to the game.

Because papa said “keep grinding” but his heart didn’t.

Because the world is lost.

Because everybody dying.

Because you are independent, but now you need help.

Because you showed me how to live without.

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MONEY

BLACK WOMANHOOD Being a black woman means you’re independent and smart. A black woman is not your average woman. With or without power, they make things happen.

SISTERHOOD Sisterhood is a group of sisters who go through the same problems. They talk to each other about anything and everything. They are there for each other. They tell you when you’re wrong. Sisters support each other.

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COLLAGE, 2023

BY: MONEY

Ms. Coffee

MS. COFFEE

6 WORD MEMOIR

“MAKE YOU OWN HAPPILY EVER AFTE.”

MS. COFFEE I am from Douglas and Delores Coffee From keep God and family before anything I am from warm hugs, laughter, smells of homemade cake, seven layer salads and fried chicken fill the

I AM FROM POEM

room.

I am from lakefront and sunsets, Feeling the air breeze and watching the water hit the rocks.

Hearing the sounds of jazz from WNUA off the radio.

I’m from Betty and Francis From learning my love of art and seeing the bright colors come to life off the canvas.

And from being a proud black woman and loving who I am today, tomorrow, and always.

I’m from “You are a Coffee” And from “Keep God first.”

I’m from never take no for an answer, I’m from love, From Church gatherings, family functions, and homemade ice cream.

From Ricky and Dwaun.

I am from Love, Loyalty and Forgiveness.

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MS. COFFEE

Growing up on the North side of Chicago, the women in my family would create these standards to be these classy Black women. They may not have

BLACK WOMANHOOD

made much money, but education was everything and our utter presentation of self. My family would talk about not allowing whites to talk all over us. I remember my aunts wearing these beautiful fur coats. The messages I took from my childhood were: always be on step in front of the white man, talk like you got some sense, and make a good first impression.

Even though I was in a good neighborhood, I dealt with a lot of racial conflict, to have a name, a sense of purpose and belonging in a predominantly white area.

It is still a growing process for me to define myself as a Black woman. So far, it’s okay to be unapologetic about my views and opinions. My emotions are just as important as everyone else’s. My love language is ART. I paint my feelings. Uplift my sister next to me and not put them down. Laughter is the best medicine. What I would like to learn eventually as a Black woman is to ask for help.

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SISTERHOOD

MS. COFFEE

Having a sister is the best thing ever. Some days you may not like what they say, but you know they have your back. We laugh through our pain, give hugs when needed. I learn to surround myself around people that match my energy. Sisters that uplift me, call me out, support me. We may not talk every day. When I do call, it’s like we talked yesterday.

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DEAR FUTURE SELF

MS. COFFEE

Dear Future Self, Girl . . . I am so proud of you. You put yourself first. You look great.

Everything has and will fall into place. Remember, when you get stressed . . . Breathe girl.

Sincerely, Past Self

68

COLLAGE, 2023

BY: MS. COFFEE

Nicole

NICOLE

6 WORD MEMOIR

“BE YOU, BE WONDERFUL, BE YOU.”

NICOLE I am from Juanita and Clyde From life and love and wisdom I am from The 100’s, 60628

I AM FROM POEM

I am from the wind The Windy City I’m from Kim and Derrick From traveling down South and back And from support I’m from “Be patient, be you, be somebody” And from “Be respected.”

I’m from my ancestors I’m from Chicago, Home of the Hoagy From my auntie’s taco salad and homemade caramel cake And from grandma’s cornbread I miss From Grandfather my hero, my supporter I am from pain that won’t heal

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NICOLE

To the World, since you asked, I’ll tell you why I’m so angry.

SINCE YOU ASKED

Because I’m hurt.

Because life isn’t always fair.

Because I miss when we could walk down the street.

Because I miss my grandma.

Because I miss my brother? texting me.

Because happiness is becoming extinct.

Because I am not where I want to be.

Because the police is no help.

Because government help is horrible.

Because forever is just a word.

Because . . . .

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NICOLE

Being a black woman means to me being strong and independent,

BLACK WOMANHOOD

hardworking, having a job/career, while also trying to live every day along with the everyday trials we face.

Being a black woman in today’s society we have to multitask, we have to learn how to work, go to school, and think and live. There is a stigma that it’s normal that we face these challenges but we are worth much more.

As black women, we do have a voice, and it just matters how we use it. I don’t like the stigma that us black women are supposed to just take it because as a black woman, we are people and we need help as well, and don’t need to just handle it ourselves.

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NICOLE

SISTERHOOD

Sisterhood means to me being able to have someone you argue with but, you’re stuck for life with them. Somebody you call at 3am and she gone curse you out but she still gone answer that phone. A person who you take walks with just to vent. Somebody you cry with, but they gone tell you it’s going to be okay. A food trip date at any time or any place, and maybe a cocktail or a few. From long paragraphs to apologies, life is too valuable to live my life without my sisters. From broken bonds to fixed chains, we all we got. No matter what, love your sisters. I love you Bitches.

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NICOLE Dear Future Self by Brianna Stubenfield

DEAR FUTURE SELF

Dear Future Self,

I would tell my future self that no matter what you go through please don’t give up. It may seem that stuff will get hard, but eventually you will find your way. To myself I wouldn’t change anything I've been through because it made me who I am today. Going through these things has taught me a lot. It molded me to be a better and smarter person. And taught me how to be stronger.

Dear Future Self, with patience you will be where you need to be.

Sincerely, Past Self

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COLLAGE, 2023

BY: NICOLE

Nuk

NUK

6 WORD MEMOIR

“PRETTY, BLUNT, HUMBLE, INDEPENDENT, OPTIMISTIC, SPONTANEOUS.”

NUK

I am from Nuk From the south suburbs.

I AM FROM POEM

I am from Sunny City.

I am from cloudy clouds above in the sky that are sad and drowned.

I’m from Sassy and Jessica.

From styling and dressing.

And from joy and happiness.

I’m from the South side of the 100s.

And from a hard head.

I’m from treat people how you would want to be treated I’m from Chicago, Illinois.

From chicken and fries.

From Ronda and Twin.

I am from the trenches and the wild 100s

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NUK

Self, since you asked, I’ll tell you why I’m so sad.

Because depression is real.

Because life is harder than expected.

SINCE YOU ASKED

Because I don’t push myself to work harder.

Because school is hard.

Because I don’t get my way.

Because bills keep piling up.

Because I don’t like to work everyday.

Because living is expensive.

Because there’s no one there when I need them.

Because I’m facing challenges alone.

Because I don’t like to express myself.

Because I feel empty at times.

Because I miss my loved ones.

Because I need to believe in myself more.

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NUK

BLACK WOMANHOOD Being a Black woman means everything to me. It’s the way I walk through life, the way I look, the way I talk. Being a Black woman means you are the most important piece of the world. Black women are powerful. Black women are beautiful no matter what shade of black. I am an outstanding, strong, beautiful black woman.

SISTERHOOD Sisterhood is something I wouldn’t consider. Drama and a lot of conflict, arguing and back and forth. Sisterhood takes a lot of energy that I don’t have! Sisterhood is a nice feeling but for those that need a friend. See me, I don’t need a friend. Friends is just a feeling that causes hurt & pain.

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COLLAGE, 2023

BY: NUK

Shyra

SHYRA

6 WORD MEMOIR

“SLIM, TALL, UNIQUE, CHOCOLATE, PRETTY, FYE.”

SHYRA

I am from The Davis Family From love and loyalty I am from 124th Perry Avenue

I AM FROM POEM

I am from the hood Where we didn’t see much.

I’m from Lil Granny and Big Granny From life lessons to family gatherings And from dedication I’m from “Girl, them legs long” And from “The blacker the berry, the sweeter the juice.”

I’m from morals and blessings I’m from Chicago From Harold’s Chicken to a good Sunday dinner.

From Shyra I am from strength.

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SHYRA World, since you asked, I’ll tell you why I’m so angry.

Because I feel lost.

Because I have no one to talk to.

Because my granny, the only person I can talk to, is gone.

Because nobody seems to see where I’m coming from.

SINCE YOU ASKED

Because my friends getting killed.

Because kids killing kids.

Because everyone thinks this thing called backdoor cool.

Because family thinks water thicker than blood.

Because no one has loyalty.

Because of a failed system.

Because of police brutality.

Because females don’t care about self morals.

Because sometimes it feels dark.

Because I got shot in the face.

Because the shooter still walking free.

Because No One Cares.

Because NO ONE CARES. Because everyone calls it life and that’s why I’m angry.

87

SHYRA

What being a black woman means to me is a strong, hardworking,

BLACK WOMANHOOD

dedicated and committed woman to herself.

Strong no matter how big the storm. She is willing to get through the storm. ..

Hardworking and willing to work at any means to survive for her and her kids in this thing called life. . .

Dedicated to never give up and fight to the end, no matter how hard life gets or no matter how many times you want to give up. . .

Committed to yourself, your kids, and whoever else needs you. Be committed to your morals, be righteous, and committed to your beliefs and keep pushing. . .

88

SHYRA

SISTERHOOD

Sisterhood is a bond that most females don’t have because of envy and hate. Sisterhood is a bond where sisters can come together in the hardest times but most sisters sit around waiting to find what brings you down. They will be in your face cause you are beneficial to them. Sisterhood comes with loyalty but most sisters sit around waiting to snake you. My loyalty is too real for a sisterhood. So until I find a sister like me, down for it all, a shoulder when you need one, loyalty and a helping hand when you need one. Until then, I don’t have a sister.

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SHYRA

Dear Future Self,

DEAR FUTURE SELF

This is a letter to self and I just want to tell you that everything will be okay.

Don’t let no one judge you or steer you wrong in shape or form. Trust yourself before you put your trust in others cause most people want to see you fail. Everyone don’t come like me. People see loyalty in different ways.

Family and friends can be the same sometimes just cause someone’s family doesn’t mean they will show you loyalty. Stop being a pushover. Stop letting people step over you. Stop letting people emotionally control your mind over matter. Keep pushing and striving for better.

Sincerely, Yourself

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COLLAGE, 2023

BY: SHYRA

Whit'lee

WHIT'LEE

Sisterhood, (what it means to me). I really was decent with my sister for

SISTERHOOD

real, but we did have a little bond. They was cool until I got older and they started to be mean and rude so I really went outside and found my own sisters. The sisters I found love me still to this day. They love me for who I am. They love everything about me. My other sister, my real sisters, hate how ghetto I am, how ratchet I am, but that’s me and I’m not changing for nobody. I love me and my new sisters love me too, just for who I am.

Sisterhood is like another mother. A sister that will pick you up when you feeling down.

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Wyia

WYIA

6 WORD MEMOIR

“STRONG, BRAVE, HUMBLE, DEFINED, PRETTY, HONEST.”

WYIA

I am from Peaches and Heen From E-Street and the wild, wild 100s

I AM FROM POEM

I am from the smell of greens on Thanksgiving I am from West Pullman, The trenches where I love.

I’m from Halema and Loretta From my grandmothers who are strong women And from Chicago I’m from the Windy City I’m from a Christian home I’m from the Chi From mild sauce and chicken From my little brother “Binky” forever I’m from where you have to watch your surroundings.

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WYIA

SINCE YOU ASKED

Brother, since you asked, I’ll tell you why I’m so angry.

Because I tried to be the big sister you was proud of.

Because I feel like I failed you.

Because I wasn’t there to save you.

Because I wanted my last hug.

Because you stopped breathing and couldn’t fight.

Because my life is all over the place cause you gone.

Because I can’t hear “I love you” in your voice.

Because I can’t have my brother back.

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WYIA BLACK WOMANHOOD Being a Black woman to me is being a great, independent woman that doesn’t care about nothing anybody says to you or thinks. Being a Black woman is strong.

SISTERHOOD Sisterhood to me is females that's always there for you and that's by your side. My sisters, all my sisters, are my Bitches, my ride & die, my shorties, my babies. Without my sisters I don’t know where I’d be. All my little mini Meee’s, we there for each other through whatever. We cry together. We get mad at each other and we make up cause we sisters. Without my Bitches, my little sisters, I don’t know what type of Big Sister I’d be. I love my babies.

That’s my sisterhood.

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WYIA

DEAR FUTURE SELF

Dear Future Self,

Don’t ever give up. Always move forward. Don’t let go and always follow your dreams and don’t ever let nobody tell you you can’t do it cause you can do it. You are strong and you are wise. You are somebody. You are a mother, a sister, a daughter. Love yourself and always stay stress free.

Yours faithfully, Past Self

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COLLAGE, 2023

BY: WYIA

To learn more about our work, read memoirs, and other compilations written by our Authors visit: www.contextos.org Find us on social media: @contextoschi

All photographs by Dimitri Hepburn 2023

Book design by Naimah Thomas