Thematic apperception.
I like a theme and the organization of a calendar, and I even like a few of the Hallmark holidays – but I don’t think only a month for Black History or Women’s History is sufficient or fair. So instead, I will title this a love note and peaceful passage to one of my most favorite artists who just happens to be a Black woman.
Early imprinting
In the late ‘60s and early ‘70s, my elementary school was part of an experiment. Black children from the city were bussed to my small suburb. As 6 new 3rd graders wearily stepped off the bus, I buried my shyness and rushed to greet them. I desperately wanted new friends. My classmate had been teasing me since the mock election when I was the lone voice who voted for Shirley Chisholm. Back then women weren’t in the White House. A little girl from my class grabbed my arm. “Didn’t my mother warn me, as hers did, that we must not? “, one may wonder. I don’t recall any conversation at home or in the classroom. All the more reason to be welcoming, I thought.
An Ally
In 1974, Ms. Milbier taught sixth grade social studies. She was progressive with the use of MS and her advocacy for Civil Rights. I was 11 and thought she was wonderful. Finally, there were conversations and some empathy. She, figuratively speaking, introduced me to Cicely Tyson via the movie “The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman”. The story was so compelling. But, this gorgeous actress, who played the title character from teenager to centenarian, captivated me. She was amazing and I loved her.
Going Home
She passed away on January 28th. Sad news, but I smiled thinking of my fist formative encounter with her. And I was glad she could witness Kamala Harris being inaugurated. I read a story about how Cicely Tyson would wait for the right role that would lift up women and especially Black women. She said she had the “audacity to be selective”.
Collective Gasp
Flash back to 2011. I am in the audience at the movie “The Help”. The theater was packed with a bunch of women my age. Lots of book groups. I knew little of the movie because I rarely see one after the book. I didn’t even know Cicely Tyson was in it. But when she made her screen appearance, I gasped out loud. I even thought a bit too loudly until I realized that the sound was that of an audible collective expression of awe.
Audacious women
Maybe other people at the theater had a similar reverence for this beautiful person. Maybe Cicely Tyson was their teacher, too. May these women be out in the world making it more welcoming.
I hope to be audacious! May the coming months be filled love, unity and good health for all.