I May Be Black I May Be Ugly Quote
The quote "I may be black, I may be ugly, but dear God, I'm here. I'm here." has been attributed to the late actress and civil rights activist, Lena Horne. It's a powerful statement that speaks to the resilience and perseverance of black people in the face of adversity.
The Life of Lena Horne
Lena Horne was born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1917. She began her career as a singer and dancer in the 1930s, performing in nightclubs and on Broadway. She was one of the first black performers to be signed to a long-term contract with a major Hollywood studio, MGM, in the 1940s.
Despite her talent, Horne faced discrimination in Hollywood. She was often cast in roles that didn't showcase her abilities, and her scenes were sometimes cut from films when they were shown in the South, where segregation was still in place. Horne also faced personal struggles, including a rocky marriage and battles with depression.
The Meaning of the Quote
The quote "I may be black, I may be ugly, but dear God, I'm here. I'm here." is a testament to Horne's resilience and determination. Despite the obstacles she faced, she refused to be silenced or held back. She knew that her mere existence was a form of resistance, and that by simply being present and visible, she was making a statement.
The quote has resonated with many people, particularly black people, who have faced similar challenges. It's a reminder that no matter what society says about us or how it tries to hold us back, we are still here. We are still alive, still fighting, and still making our voices heard.
The Legacy of Lena Horne
Lena Horne passed away in 2010, but her legacy lives on. She was a trailblazer in the entertainment industry, paving the way for future generations of black performers. She was also a vocal advocate for civil rights, using her platform to speak out against racism and injustice.
The quote "I may be black, I may be ugly, but dear God, I'm here. I'm here." is just one example of Horne's powerful words and lasting impact. It's a reminder that even in the face of adversity, we can still persevere and make a difference.
Conclusion
The quote "I may be black, I may be ugly, but dear God, I'm here. I'm here." is a powerful statement of resilience and perseverance. It reminds us that no matter what obstacles we face, we can still make our voices heard and make a difference in the world. Lena Horne was a true trailblazer and her legacy continues to inspire us today.