The Big Questions
SSD: There are two big questions that I’m asking every interview subject to answer.
First: What does it mean to you to “Be Black” in 2022?
TS: To me, to be Black in 2022 means a lot. It means what it meant 1,000 years ago and even before that. It means having to explain what “being Black” means to Non-Black People. It means trying to fit in everywhere in the world because the world wasn’t designed around you being considered a full human being that could thrive in it – so, now that you are, systems aren’t set up with you in mind.
Being Black most importantly to me means that I am who I am, and I am proud of it.
God chose for me to be Black, and He makes no mistakes. Therefore, I am aware that I am Black. I am proud to be Black. But, I don’t have to wear a badge daily and remind people that I am Black.
SSD: Ok, moving on to Numero Dos: As a Black Person in America, what’s one thing that you wish other people knew about your daily experiences?
TS: I put on my pants one leg at a time and bleed red blood like everybody else. As soon as everyone recognizes and respects the differences that we each have, then the world will be a better place. It’s hard to hate and easy to love.
