Did you know while being interviewed by Gayle King 2 days before she transitioned at the age of 96, Cicely Tyson cried for the first time about being sexually assaulted when she was a teenager!!!???? Did you know??? I didn’t either.
I’m going to make a strong and maybe controversial statement. To hold that in your heart for 70+ years is an act of chivalry. Hear me out. Some hear the word Chivalry and immediately think of the way a man honors the presence of a woman by certain behaviors. I too thought this. Until just now. The definition of Chivalry is based on the medieval knightly system with its religious, moral, and social code. MEDIEVAL SOCIAL CODE. For too long have the struggles of women been buried in the social codes of men who do not honor us or give us room to acknowledge the devastation they leave us to carry. For too long have we as women went along with this “code”. I’ve always held her high. She has always been a symbol of Sistahood, Maternal Elegance, Beauty, Wisdom, and Magic. Mrs. Tyson’s place in my heart was elevated even higher because she refused to leave before expanding that sacred space of storytelling to include her own story in her Memoir “Just As I Am”
And as I think of Cicely Tyson’s Legacy and listen to Jazmine Sullivans Haux Tales, I’m inspired. Yeah! I said it. Cicely Tysons Legacy & Jazmine Sullivans Haux Tales at the same dang time. And Yep! Inspired is the word. I wrote Trini’s Blues to not only share my story but also provoke conversation that heals and helps us find the common thread in our stories. I want us to find validation, the courage to explore our own experiences & the emotions attached to them. I also want us to share those stories in an effort encourage others. Mrs. Tyson paved the way and now we will pick up torches and pray with our artistry. Our heads are all just a bit higher because of her Legacy. I know the “Religious Zealots” and “Extreme Hoteps” are mad because our stories & our delivery doesn’t always represent what they consider righteous. But we are too shameless to care. This is not the age of chivalry. This is the age of Freedom and Rapid Change. And yup! It be our Sista’s leading the way.
I promise to do my part. I promise to continue to write. I promise to be open and transparent. I PROMISE!! You will see some new events showing up as part of my commitment to collective growth & healing. Looking forward to seeing ya’ll there.
Peace and Blessings,
B.A. Buie