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?
NG: Being Black to me in 2022 means being courageous. It means showing up and existing in spaces that may not have been intended for us, or that we are experiencing as a “first” in our spheres of influence. It means believing in ourselves more, stepping out and doing the things that we desire – and doing so without hesitation. It means embracing our greatness, sharing that with the world, and inspiring others to do the same because we are showing what is possible if we just take action.
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?
NG: Every day I do hard things. I do hard things so much that it is my normal state of being. So, when you see me living, I am a walking testimony of resilience, overcoming, capacity, and potential. As a Black person in America, there is a burden and responsibility that I carry whether I want to or not. It is not a choice. But I have a choice in how I manage the responsibility and that is with love, awareness, gratitude, and bravery.
