Speak up... We Deserve to Be Heard

As a mom of four beautiful Black children, a small business owner, and a publisher, I felt that it was my duty to share the stories of those who have been impacted by racial injustices that have plagued our country since the beginning of its inception. I pray that as you read this collection of reflections, short stories, and poetry that you are motivated to help change the narrative of what it is like to be Black in America.

I present to you: Speak up... We deserve to be heard. Stories and reflections on being Black in America. -Visionary Author: Chanel E. Martin

"I feel like I'm drowning in a never-ending media spiral of bad news. It seems every week, or more often, another innocent Black man or woman is murdered. Why? I've cried, I've prayed, and felt all the feels. I'm angry. Where is the liberty and justice for all? It's more like liberty and justice for those who don't look like me." - Author Monique Latrice

"We fear the power that just our being creates. We need to teach people who we are. Our history did not originate with chains and shackles. Now we are prisoners of a mental war waged on our people for centuries. It's time to tell our stories at the top of our lungs while for these few minutes, our lives matter." - Author Andrea M. Harris

"No, that doll doesn't look like you." I looked down at my hands. "Mom, but look. My hands and the bottom of my feet look just like that doll," I said in protest." No, you can only have Black dolls." That was the end of our 2-minute conversation." - Author Niki J.

Full List of Contributing Authors

Betty Harris, Marquita Young, Monique Latrice, Joyce Smith, Bianca Modo Isom, Andrea M. Harris, Ivy Caldwell, Jacinta Martin, Veronica Wilson, Elydia P. Ketchens, Sheree Casey, Nikki J., Sharon Weatherspoon, Monica Leak, Joretha Williams Wright, Crystal Davis, Dr. Monique Rodgers, Shameka Jones, Riva N. Jackson, Kristina Marable, Stephne Hockenhull, Delsue Rena Frankson, Chantrise Sims Holliman, Angela Conner, Jackie Tolbert, Lakisha Smith