A Sister's Struggle

 

As a woman of color, there are certain prejudices in our world that will always force me to work harder than someone with a lighter skin tone.  The hands around my neck represent those prejudices, and yet the face is still complacent because I know that these prejudices, stereotypes, and microaggressions cannot hold me back.

 

This fact is not just my struggle. I know that other women of color experience these pains on different scales and that they are all different beautiful shades and souls. The women within the arms represent those sisters who share this struggle.

This piece connects to my identity because I am proud to be a Latina and African-American woman, even if it means that I do not have certain privileges that would alter my life. I kept the painting fluid to capture the true magic, strength, and beauty of women of color.