"If I could take all my parts with me when I go somewhere / and not have to say to one of them, ‘No, you stay home tonight, you won’t be welcome’/ because I’m going to an all-white party where I can be gay but not Black / Or I’m going to a Black poetry reading, and half the poets are anti-homosexual / or thousands of situations where something of what I am cannot come with me / The day all the different parts of me can come along / we would have what I would call / a revolution"
About Pat Parker
Pat Parker — Life and Legacy
Pat Parker was an influential African American poet and activist whose work profoundly addressed themes of love, identity, and social justice. Her poetry often reflects her experiences as a black woman, challenging societal norms and advocating for marginalized voices. In her poem 'Movement in Black,' Parker articulates the struggles and resilience of black womanhood, emphasizing the importance of both personal and collective identity. Parker's quotes reveal her belief in the transformative power of love, as she once stated that love is a form of resistance against oppression. This perspective is evident in her work, where she intertwines personal narratives with broader social issues, creating a rich tapestry of emotion and insight. Her poetry not only speaks to the struggles of her time but also resonates with contemporary discussions on race and gender. Today, Pat Parker's work remains relevant as it continues to inspire conversations about identity, love, and the ongoing fight for equality. Her fearless exploration of complex themes encourages readers to reflect on their own experiences and the societal structures that shape them.
Quote collection
Pat Parker quotes
2 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.
"The first thing you must do is forget that I'm Black. Second, you must never forget that I'm Black."