Barbara Smith

“Trust is to human relationships what faith is to gospel living. It is the beginning place, the foundation upon which more can be built. Where trust is, love can flourish.”

“A major problem for Black women, and all people of color, when we are challenged to oppose anti-Semitism, is our profound scepticism that white people can actually be oppressed.”

“This invisibility, however, means that the opportunities for creative research are infinite.”

“One of the greatest gifts of Black feminism to ourselves has been to make it a little easier simply to be Black and female.”

“Black women as a group have never been fools. We couldn't afford to be.”

“Black women, whose experience is unique, are seldom recognized as a particular social-cultural entity and are seldom thought to be important enough for serious scholarly consideration.”

“You can only paint through your experience and sub-consciousness.”