Maya Angelou: A Life of Joy and Resilience Amidst Racism

The news of Maya Angelou's passing has left many feeling like Toni Morrison - that she was eternal, always meant to be there. But even in death, Angelou continues to inspire us with her life's work, a testament to the power of joy and resilience amidst racism.

One of Angelou's most famous quotes is 'Life loves the liver of it,' which speaks to her commitment to living life fully and not letting the pain and adversity she faced hold her back. She never wavered in her commitment to her community, but she also practiced self-love and self-care in public, showing us that we don't have to choose between being a good person and taking care of ourselves.

Angelou's love of life was infectious, and she inspired countless people with her words and actions. Who can forget the iconic image of her wearing a splendid coat while reading the inaugural poem for President Bill Clinton? She lived well, and some might say that her prosperity and popularity undermined the message of her words or negated her contributions to social justice. But Angelou's legacy is one of healing and hope, not divisiveness.

One of the most significant ways in which Angelou inspired us was through her bravery in speaking out against racism and sexism. She navigated the complex and treacherous terrain of accusing a black man of rape, all while expressing her love for the men in her community who loved, nurtured, and even avenged her. This is no small feat, especially considering that she did so before the term 'intersectionality' was coined to describe the overlap of racism and sexism.

Angelou's work also highlights the importance of self-care and self-love, particularly for women of color. Her quote 'There is no great sorrow dammed up in my soul' reminds us that we don't have to let our pain define us. Instead, we can choose to live with joy and purpose, even in the midst of adversity.

As millions of women shared their experiences of sexual assault on Twitter using the hashtag #YesAllWomen, it's worth remembering Angelou's own experience as a rape survivor. She wrote about her trauma over 40 years ago, despite a culture of silence and shame. Her bravery and resilience serve as a powerful reminder that we don't have to be silenced by our pain.

In conclusion, Maya Angelou's life was a testament to the power of joy, resilience, and self-love in the face of racism and adversity. She showed us how to live with purpose and passion, even in the darkest of times. As we remember her legacy, let us also honor her commitment to community, self-care, and social justice. Her love of life was a gift to us all, and may it continue to inspire us for generations to come.

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