Powerfully Excellent: Black Women of Chicago Create

I O N E S S E S S P E A K

The ConTextos Authors Circle was developed in collaboration with young people experiencing, navigating, surviving complex traumas in El Salvador. In 2017, this innovative program expanded into Chicago to create tangible, high quality opportunities that nourish the minds, expand the voices and share the personal truths of individuals who have long been underserved and underestimated. Through the process of drafting, revising, and publishing memoirs, participants strengthen self-reflection, critical thinking, camaraderie and positive self projection to author new life narratives.

This compilation represents the journey of the second Circle of Roses. This Circle continues the partnership between ConTextos and CRED's Women's Center in Roseland/Rosemoor. This iteration saw the addition of Teena's Legacy, and this rich collaboration provided the soil out of which a most impactful micro community grew. For those precious hours of Circle, the women present in this compilation— from participants to peer coaches, from life coaches to facilitators, from counselors to directors stepped outside of those categories and came together simply and powerfully as women, Black women. And in doing so, uncovered, or perhaps discovered, their individual stories.

The writing that follows reveals the complex realities of being a Black woman on Chicago's Southside. Their lives are full of love and responsibility, pain and incredible joy. This compilation follows the journey we collectively took in laying a foundation, diving deep, authoring our stories, and reflecting upon the process. Turn the pages gently and with reverence, for that is the very least of what these women deserve.

African Proverb (Modified)

In collaboration with:

"Until the lioness learns to write her own story, tales of the hunt will always glorify the hunter."

Creativity has the power to connect us to ourselves and to others. Participating in the most recent integration of the Circle of Roses has been such a grounding and inspirational experience. As an art therapist and licensed professional counselor, I'm familiar with the complexities of creativity: having the capacity to give your self permission, or use other people's experiences, to give yourself permission to use art as a way to express yourself.

N T R O D U C T I O N

Black women are often ascribed as the strong friend, a superwoman, a person who gets it done. While elements of these identities may drive us to complete tasks, take care of others, or boss up; the nuances of our lives are not always understood with compassion and grace. Creativity and self expression requires space and time for reflection. Space and time are often luxuries that Black women don't always have. The pleasure of prioritizing themselves, their growth, and healing.

Being a part of this circle gave us an opportunity to co-create space and time for self reflection. Space to come as you are and leave as you need to. Being in community together created moments of reflection, laughter, and moments of shared perspectives. There were days where some of the women expressed not feeling good when they arrived in the morning, but were glad they came by the time lunch arrived. Circle of Roses 2.0 provided a necessary space for all of us. I am so proud of the women and I am looking forward to seeing all the new paths they will pave in the future.

Naimah Thomas, ATR-BC, LPC, MA

ConTextos Authors Circle Facilitator & Publication Designer

N T R O D U C T I O N

Surrounded by Powerful Women Like You

I have been part of many Circles in my time at ConTextos. Each of them has been unique and electrifying. AND I can also say that the Women's Center and the women who meet in community there is something special indeed. Each Wednesday, women navigating jobs, school, relationships and motherhood found a way to be present and to be both engaged and engaging. Often as a facilitator one thanks participants for saying no to all the things they had to in order to say yes to Circle. Well, women and mothers are conditioned not to say no, and that is especially true for Black women. One of the wonderful things about this Circle of Roses community is that each is met where she is in a given moment on a given day. Come as you are and the Circle will be there to hold space for you. The women came. And the space responded.

If I am transparent, being part of Circle of Roses 2.0, being part of this space, has been a gift. Throughout my life I have kept other Black women at arm ' s length. I have done that in order to avoid an anticipated rejection first. As a kid I was apart from the other girls in my neighborhood because I was "different" somehow. So being accepted here and being embraced by each woman with whom I made this journey is a blessing, most divine.

slm ConTextos Authors Circle Facilitator

Women Warriors

T R O D U C T I O N

Powerful and resilient are two words that come to mind when I think of the women that have contributed to this book. Their specific journeys have created a special kind of warrior that can accomplish any goal and bring all their dreams into fruition. Every one of them have been intentional as they strive to change their trajectory and pave the way for others behind them.

Paradigm shifts are apparent, and intentions are no longer hidden. They have all found safe spaces to grow and develop in ways that make themselves proud first. While consistently working, they are also excited to root for others. Our team is beyond proud of these Warriors and cannot wait to see what is on the horizon for each and every one of them.

Necole Muhammad, LCSW Director of CRED's Women's Center

F O S T E R I N G C O N N E C T I O N S

Bianca

P R O C E S S R E F L E C T I O N

Think back a few weeks to when you first picked out your chair. Think back to when you were asked to write down words and phrases of all that you carry and all that you wanted to let go of. Write a bit about how you felt in that moment and about what you anticipated happening throughout this reupholstery experience.

When I just think back to when I first started, I looked at the chairs as if I couldn’t do it, like I thought I couldn’t complete complete high school. But as I broke the chair down and saw everything coming together, I realized if you put your mind to anything, you can accomplish it.

Now think about where you are right now with that same chair. What have you learned along the way? Learned about yourself? How do you feel looking at your chair now? Explain. I f

I HAD TO OPEN MY EYES

O R D M E M O I R S

P R O C E S S R E F L E C T I O N

Think back a few weeks to when you first picked out your chair. Think back to when you were asked to write down words and phrases of all that you carry and all that you wanted to let go of. Write a bit about how you felt in that moment and about what you anticipated happening throughout this reupholstery experience.

When I first picked out my chair I was very excited about it cause I thought about what the chair was going to mean to me and do for me. I thought about all my insecurities and the things I went through. I have always said I was once blind to a lot of things in my life but now I can see and that’s what the chair is going to mean to me. I was scared, alone, lonely—an over thinker, unpredictable, a very rebellious person. But once I started rebuilding and reupholstering my chair, I thought about it as a war chair a prayer that I didn’t feel scared or alone anymore. I am feeling relaxed and confident about myself. The project gave me purpose and understanding. My eyes are starting to open wider than before.

Now think about where you are right now with that same chair. What have you learned along the way? Learned about yourself? How do you feel looking at your chair now? Explain.

I am so excited right now about my chair. It has helped me see things in a better and brighter way. I have new friends so I am no longer lonely and no longer rebellious about things or myself. I am so happy that I am reupholstering something of my own, putting myself and feelings into the chair. I am feeling happy and proud of myself that I can share something positive and do something positive for myself. It’s going to be my war chair, my prayer chair.

Khadijah

I O N

P R O C E S S R E F L E C T

Think back a few weeks to when you first picked out your chair. Think back to when you were asked to write down words and phrases of all that you carry and all that you wanted to let go of. Write a bit about how you felt in that moment and about what you anticipated happening throughout this reupholstery experience.

At that moment (picking out my chair), I felt that I was going to make a change in my life. As I was working on my chair, I felt life. . . .

Now think about where you are right now with that same chair. What have you learned along the way? Learned about yourself? How do you feel looking at your chair now? Explain.

After working on my chair, I learned that everything is a . . . process.

Minnie

P R O C E S S R E F L E C T I O N

Think back a few weeks to when you first picked out your chair. Think back to when you were asked to write down words and phrases of all that you carry and all that you wanted to let go of. Write a bit about how you felt in that moment and about what you anticipated happening throughout this reupholstery experience.

Everything that I wrote and felt at the beginning of picking out the chair, I am at this moment feeling it all again due to personal family reasons.

Now think about where you are right now with that same chair. What have you learned along the way? Learned about yourself? How do you feel looking at your chair now? Explain.

I learned that I can change everything I feel myself.

Shawna

R D M E M O I R S

I O N

P R O C E S S R E F L E C T

Think back a few weeks to when you first picked out your chair. Think back to when you were asked to write down words and phrases of all that you carry and all that you wanted to let go of. Write a bit about how you felt in that moment and about what you anticipated happening throughout this reupholstery experience.

Picking out my chair, I wanted something that was sort of my style . . . something that reminded me of myself. I found a nice simple two armed chair with an intricate design on the back. Definitely a ME. It turned out that one of the arms were broken, which still reminded me of myself like a broken wing. I was going to replace or mend it but it wasn’t possible so I decided to get rid of the broken arm altogether. It still reminded me of myself because I’ve always been the type to try to fly with a broken wing.

P O E M

Trying to Find Myself in a Whirl Wind

Darkness had surrounded me

And I allowed it to consume me. I unlocked the chains of the box that I was kept in. But as I flew away, I later realized I had left Not just something, But someone behind. Left in the space Where I was once forced to reside Reminded myself with a note stuck beside. Please don't forget me it Signed, autographed With a stencil, laced with tainted purity an 11 years old Fought for since she was five.

Ice cold and numb I was fleeing in the wrong direction Farther away from where I'd come But too lost to know where I was headed.

Putting half of my morals And everything I once believed in on the back burner. Trying to burn the boxed memories from my existence Set a fire to my soul. Lighting lights fluorescent in different colors. I had finally found my way.

P O E M

A little less curved

And a little more straight. A different flower bloomed But that same familiar rosy color It still had. Softer in touch But still smooth like butter. The same pieces of my self I allowed someone else to hold and they had broken, I held in my hands But now they fit perfectly in my stained glass puzzle. More beautiful than before So gentle and fragile yet strong enough to knock. Something I knew that I would have to keep Until time stopped running by the hands of a clock. I could now breath.

A freshness so fresh Like the summer time beach breeze, Newly cut grass And just a hint of peppermint. I have found myself. Those words So sweet. Those words... I finally knew what they meant.

Samshyra

P R O C E S S R E F L E C T I O N

Think back a few weeks to when you first picked out your chair. Think back to when you were asked to write down words and phrases of all that you carry and all that you wanted to let go of. Write a bit about how you felt in that moment and about what you anticipated happening throughout this reupholstery experience.

Even tho I wasn’t able to pick a chair myself, I was still able to enjoy the experience of breaking the chair down and creating the chair: picking out unique colors. I feel it expresses me as a bright, unique, outstanding person that I am. hat have eel d how

to e get

SAMSHYRA ROSE ART 2022

Tekeirra

I O N

P R O C E S S R E F L E C T

Think back a few weeks to when you first picked out your chair. Think back to when you were asked to write down words and phrases of all that you carry and all that you wanted to let go of. Write a bit about how you felt in that moment and about what you anticipated happening throughout this reupholstery experience.

I felt stressed out but I knew the chair would be something positive to focus on so I could get outta my head

Now think about where you are right now with that same chair. What have you learned along the way? Learned about yourself? How do you feel looking at your chair now? Explain.

I’ve learned a little more patience because I haven’t been able to finish my chair like everyone else. I feel indecisive when I look at my chair now because I wanna finish it but I don’t.

Ms. Coffee

CHICAGO CRED

P R O C E S S R E F L E C T I O N

Think back a few weeks to when you first picked out your chair. Think back to when you were asked to write down words and phrases of all that you carry and all that you wanted to let go of. Write a bit about how you felt in that moment and about what you anticipated happening throughout this reupholstery experience.

When I first started, I was overthinking so as to have a form of perfection. I was more worried about how to show up with others. The writing on the chair allowed me to look at myself on a deeper level. I kept writing on my chair for the day. I watched others taking in my pain and reflected on what they saw. At the moment I felt open. I felt truthful. I wanted to stand out more, take up space. So I picked a bigger chair and a bright one.

Now think about where you are right now with that same chair. What have you learned along the way? Learned about yourself? How do you feel looking at your chair now? Explain.

I feel I shine for all the right reasons. Now I want to show up. I am open more for suggestions, and will allow others to see what I don’t.

Niecey

CHICAGO CRED

P R O C E S S R E F L E C T I O N

Think back a few weeks to when you first picked out your chair. Think back to when you were asked to write down words and phrases of all that you carry and all that you wanted to let go of. Write a bit about how you felt in that moment and about what you anticipated happening throughout this reupholstery experience.

I felt like breaking down the chair was a part of letting go of the hurt that I had to endure over the years. It felt so good being able to let go of a lot of negativity.

Now think about where you are right now with that same chair. What have you lea ow do you feel looking

I have l come about, but you hav

L F

D E A R F U T U R E S E

Dear Future Self,

I remember going through hurt and disloyalty while I was trying to complete this chair. I had been blinded by mistrust & false love. I was lucky to have a team of the right people surrounding me with purpose, love & support. I began to let go of the damage they had caused in my family. I am so thankful that I have a sister that is a part of my life, that wants what’s best for me and my future. I learned that being around negativity is an option. I have chosen myself first and that’s the best decision I have ever made this far.

Peace God Bless I Luv You Niecey

Teena's Legacy

JAMIKA SMITH AND DAUGHTER 2022

Before facilitating a Teena's Legacy workshop, it's natural for my nerves to get the best of me. So, I started a morning ritual to help calm my nerves, and I also took the time to have a one on one conversation with Peaches (My Fear). So, in the morning while in the bathroom mirror, I repeat to myself about 5 times, "I am powerful, I am confident. What God placed inside of me needs to be shared with the world; Jamika you got this girl."

T E E N A ' S L E G A C Y

Despite my efforts to prepare, Peaches show nuff started knocking at my Soul's door, talking about "let me in, I need to talk." Now, I know better than to entertain her, but I let her in anyway, and with no hesitation she started with all her negative talk. Talking about " Girl! You know you are not even ready for this, don't start fumbling all over your words. They will sense your fear, you ' re not good enough." I allowed myself to listen to Peaches pretty much the entire drive, up until I walked in the Women's Center of Chicago CRED.

As I walked around the corner taking several deep breaths, my Spirit instantly felt at ease. I immediately felt the excitement radiating from my colleagues and the staff. Everyone welcomed me with smiles and a sense of reassurance that everything is good. Because the ladies were so engaged in the process, Peaches started to feel ignored and left out; I didn't have time to entertain all her negative chatter because my mind was focused on creating, building, and renewing.

It was interesting how throughout the process I was able to recognize the Peaches in all the ladies while they stripped down their chairs and told their stories at the same time, even as they designed and restored their chairs. I loved how we all created a safe space where each lady was able to reflect, express, and create freely without any judgement. My experience working with the ladies at Chicago CRED was very impactful. I gained clarity, conformation and another dose of confidence. As for Peaches, well. . .

S E L F D I S C O V E R Y

The story behind my chair is of abuse and being brought back to life. I wrote Rejection on the chair. I let go of hurt. I created life and chose the color orange.The value of sharing this space is gaining trust with me.The experience impacted me in so many ways.Others would benefit from this experience because they get to be themselves and they get away from their problems.

- Ashley

My choice of fabric was pink and black, two of my favorite colors. The reason I picked the chair I had was because it reminds me of my granddad. I decided to write “live for the future” and let go of the past. I feel like I let go of everything that I thought. They broke me and created memories.

The value of sharing space with other women is to get to meet other Black women who understand the struggle and who know what it’s like to come from the struggle.It was a wonderful experience, it was inspiring and it impacted me in a lot of ways. Now I can take things that’s broken and fix them. I believe that other women will benefit because I know a lot of women who have.- Bianca

S E L F D I S C O V E R Y

The color I chose for my chair is purple because it is my favorite color. The fabric I chose is because I like the color and print of it. I put my negative on the back of the chair: alone, lonely, rebellious. There is a closed eye meaning I once was lost in this world then I put my positive on the front (loyal, good company, patient, confident). I let go of all my negative things and tried to concentrate on the positive things in my life.

I really like sharing space with the Chicago CRED women because I like hearing their stories and they were so helpful and shared and gave great ideas. The women I shared space with are awesome and I am glad that I have shared the space with them.

My experience impacted me in a way I can’t explain. I was impressed and moved by the women, the staff, and everyone. We worked together as a team. Very interesting experience.

I think other women would benefit from the experience I had with reupholstering the chair and being with awesome women that work well together. It really helped me let out a lot of things that were inside of me and helped me bring out the positive in me that I know could be. Frances

S E L F D I S C O V E R Y

I have learned to take my time, to be patient, to trust the process. I have learned a new skill. I have learned about good people from ConTextos & the Circle of Roses. Before this I would have just done a rushed job, not knowing what to do just doing it. Throughout my life, I tend to rush stuff. This was a good setting for me to just sit down, focus, and think cause in order to focus you have to think. The chair shows that I am a woman of royalty, looking to share and network with a lot of different people who will be on the same page. Hard work, dedication, determined. The hardest part of the process was taking out the staples. It took forever and then finding the grooves of where to put the new staples. It wasn’t hard for me to reach out for help cause help was right there. The easiest part was physically putting on the fabric. I started with rainbow and then red cause the chair was already red. I wanted my chair to pop so that finally took me to the final choice of purple and gold

I wouldn’t reupholster on my own, mainly because I don’t have the time. My son is a full time job. He is up at 7:15am, and then he is just going. Then I am in the bed by 7:45pm at night. My friends call me like, “what’s wrong with you?” And I say, “what’s wrong with YOU? I’m tired.”

I would recommend the program. I gained a new skill. I really think a lot of people should get into this cause it is hard and it is easy. Plus, it’s fun. I would have never thought about rebuilding anything. And now . . . Khadijah

The story behind my chair is my ex close friends and family who betrayed or left me and the anger it brought to me. It’s my throwing out the anger and all the bad energy away. My new chair describes my family and friends who aren’t here and how they keep me going and how all I think about is them. White represents the heavens in which they are.

S E L F D I S C O V E R Y

I value looking at and hearing other women who have been through what I have and hearing how they try to deal with things.

My experience in here has impacted me a lot in helping me decide my attitude at times.

I do think others would benefit from this experience because everyone has a story and some are different from others. It’s always good to listen.

I learned that I am capable of controlling everything that concerns me. The chair is a reflection of my journey.

From dark to light.

From angry to happiness.

From hell to heaven.

Nobody to my Guardian Angels (Family)

Minnie

S E L F D I S C O V E R Y

Doing the chair project I wanted to focus on speaking to the little girl inside of me. I felt like I feel like parts of my inner self were lost and I wanted to give it voice. I decided to pick a chair that was unique and bring out my old art skills. As we were breaking down the chair, I wrote down traumatic experiences that have happened to me growing up and my feelings around them. Some of the things I never spoke about. I didn’t break down my chair right away. Allowing my fear and shame to be right in front of me was very therapeutic. I got to see other responses and to see the empathy they felt for me; it helped validate my inner emotions. Eventually, I didn’t feel afraid or ashamed about my life but eventually started to see myself as brave. I wanted to reflect on some of the happy moments in my childhood. Those moments were when my mother was still alive. I remember my mother would always dress me in bright colors like yellow and pink. I couldn’t stand those colors growing up. I didn’t like to stand out. She would always tell me my skin was so pretty and how beautiful I was. I chose the color yellow because it reminded me of her voice and her kind words. She would brag to everyone about my art and how creative I was. The yellow on my chair is a reminder that it’s okay for me to take up as much space as I want in the world and to love who I am. I picked African colors because I just love them, but my family was big on being proud of who I am. It kind of reminds me of the story my aunt told me about family. One of my cousins was one of the first ladies to go to school at Clark Atlanta University. My great grandfather was one of the first black jewelers in Atlanta. My cousin Blanche K. Bruce, was the first black man to serve a full term in the U.S Senate. My aunt would always say to us “Coffee” stand

out. I hope to stand out more in a unique way. I hope it’s with my art one day. Today this chair will be a safe space for me, a place where I can reflect on who I am and my journey in life.

S E L F D I S C O V E R Y

The value of being in space with other women lets me know we may come from different backgrounds but we have all felt the same pain at some point in our lives. We were a sisterhood.

I am big on encouraging my clients on sharing their stories and owning their truth. This was an opportunity for me to do that for myself. I got to feel every emotion behind it and take ownership of it. I felt very supported by everyone in the group. My clients got to view me in a different light as well. I got to be a part of the healing process helping with upholstery and chairs, processing how their feelings about it and hearing sharing about mine as well.

It definitely would work for anyone. It allows you to process emotions that you never thought would come up for you. You get to bond with other people and to see the outcome of the chairs is so rewarding.

Ms.Coffee, Chicago Cred

S E L F D I S C O V E R Y

I chose the color purple because it's my favorite color and I chose the fabric black and silver stripe because it’s also a fave color of mine. I wrote my negative thoughts and my positive ones that’s on the chair. I let go of my negative thoughts. I made it as if I was once blind in this world with my insecurities, selfishness, and being alone. My positive view is an eye that’s wide open, saying that I can see clearly now. The rain or storm is gone. I also created the chair for my two grandmothers who died from cancer.

Sharing space with the participants of CRED was refreshing and awesome. They were very open minded to my views. With me helping them, we could also help one another to see the different styles the women came with. The time we spent together was amazing. I really enjoyed the time I spent with the women. The experience I had with the Chicago CRED women was different. They made me feel welcome. They made me feel a part of a family and happy to experience something new in my life that I have never done before. I was able to express my inner feelings. Bad and Loud. I do think other women in my community would benefit from this experience because when I was telling and showing people about what I was doing with the reupholstery of chairs and being in a group with the women and they said they would like to be in something like that. It is different and fun.

Niecey, Chicago Cred

When we first started the chairs, I wasn’t there so I really didn’t know what we was doing. I was kinda going with the flow but when it came to the colors and fabric, I basically wanted to express myself through the chair. I chose my colors because I feel they are bright and tell a story when people see me. I might come off as mean or always frowning but when you get to know me I’m bright, cool, and full of life.

S E L F D I S C O V E R Y

Sharing space with the other women was different. Before starting this program, I felt as if I was alone and I was wondering why me? Why do I have to go thru this with no one to talk to or express my feelings to? Everyone had different thoughts and feelings and exchanged a lot of help that brought us together more.

The experience impacted me a lot because I never knew that there were people that go thru similar circumstances or worse who really care.

I do think that others in my community would benefit from this experience because it’s a stress relief and a nice experience. I really enjoyed it.

I learned that I am very creative and enjoy reupholstering furniture. My chair is a reflection of me because it expresses the lightness in me and how unique I am when you think of me.

I recommend Teena's Legacy because I like it and I think many more will enjoy it.

Samshyra

S E L F D I S C O V E R Y

The story behind my chair is pretty simple. It’s unfinished and when I chose it, it was broken. I used this chair to represent myself. Even though it’s unfinished and the arm is broken, it’s still a chair. Same with me. Even though I’m broken and unfinished, I’m still me. I can revamp myself and the chair however many times I want to, and just because we ’ re damaged, it doesn’t mean we can’t be fixed. I let go of my anger, regret, fear, depression, anxiety, doubts, self hate, sadness and loneliness.

The value was the vibe, the energy from the other women. In this day and time, women are tearing each other down, so it’s good to be around women that want you to win just like them.

This experience has changed my life. I see women in a different perspective now, As a person who has had terrible female friends, this made me realize there are still positive, uplifting women in the world. I believe my others in my community could benefit from this experience because most don’t have the proper guidance or role models. - Tekeirra

I’ve learned that I’m a very visual, creative person. My inside comes out and I was able to express my feelings and emotions through my hands. My chair reflects my life. It’s full of surprises (Love & Hate). Overall, it continues to strive through even through all the obstacles.I loved this project and it’s so empowering. This is something I would include in my ladies’ nights. it’s a great program that helps women get in tune with their inner self.

- Tiffany, Chicago Cred

MID CENTURY MODERN CHAIRS BEFORE 2022

The Importance of Creating Space for Women

A S P A C E F O R W O M E N

I would describe myself as “not thinking before I say or react to something.” The experience I’ve encountered throughout the community has been great, literally nothing but love and good vibes. I more than likely think other women would benefit from this program because some women don’t have everything they need to get on their feet and what not, but that’s why this program is beneficial in so many ways.

Charmiese

If I was to describe myself before I started building at the Women’s Center, I would describe myself with two words: scared & vulnerable. My experience in the Women’s community has taught me to be powerful, unstoppable, and to challenge myself to the highest level. I think every woman should have this experience: the sisterhood, the long talks, the trips, everything. Even when you feel like giving up, there’s someone at the Center that’s pushing you to go harder. Dasheona

A S P A C E F O R W O M E N

I would describe myself as lost. I didn’t know who would be there for me. I didn’t know how I was going to get back. Coming from a place of losing everything, just beginning to become stable and losing it all over again, plus more was extremely stressful. I didn’t have much hope but I knew I had to keep the faith. I knew My God didn’t bring me this far to leave me. He promised me a lot of things and I just had to stand on it and believe. Just a lil faith of a Mustard Seed is what He asked from me.

Now, I have Hope. I don’t feel alone. I feel motivated to succeed and excel in life. I have that sense of feeling whole and not broken. I have support and a new community who’s welcomed me as family. I feel safe and comfortable, and I appreciate them for all they’ve done and are continuing to do. I actually do think that others can benefit. I know a few women I’ve referred. Everybody needs somebody. Desiree

A S P A C E F O R W O M E N

I describe myself as someone bold, someone with good genuine energy, until my kindness is taken for weakness. I’m the strong person, the person always quick to help because it makes me feel good. I’m someone who is outgoing, loves a good time. I hate drama. Before the program I was trying to find myself, my interests, what I wanna do with my life, what I need to change, what I need to buckle down and do. I’m still searching, but I’m doing well.

Let’s just say things can impact you without you knowing and I say that to say you can do everything in your power to stay out of trouble but if you in the wrong place, wrong time, things can get ugly. The world isn’t always on our side, but instead of steady crying over scars, I just keep going, knowing pain don’t last forever and it’s a mind-over- -matter-kind of thing with life. I feel like this CRED program can help a lot of people. I’m only a few months in and I love it. The people they real they relate to you, they genuinely wanna help you. I just got to put out there Ms. Muhammad my favorite. She’s such a dope person. She’s taught me things with TSM classes that I didn’t know. She’s a breathe of fresh air, someone you can confide in without being judged. The world needs more people like her. At the end of the day, we all need someone genuinely in our forever who gone keep it real, but also not sugar coat when you need to be told about yourself. Erica

A S P A C E F O R W O M E N

I would like to describe my time before I started the program as alone and needing somebody to express my feelings to or something. My experience has impacted me because it was different, it helped me learn how to communicate and learn how to speak more at and to people. I think women in my community would benefit from the program because everywhere there is in the world somebody who needs help or needs someone to talk to. - Jazmine

Before CRED I was so stressed, it felt like I had the world on my shoulders. Also, I was easily triggered.

This community has helped me in so many ways. They make me feel like I matter in what I’m goin through in Life. They make me feel I’m not alone and I can get through whatever life throws my way.

I feel many women would benefit from this program in so many ways. From the time you enter this program until the time you ' re done mentally, physically, emotionally, you will come out a better person. Last, but not least, you will know how to handle tragic situations and everyday living obstacles. Katrina

I describe myself before I started building a community with the women ’ s circle as if I was lost, unhappy, unable to communicate, unable to understand anyone else’s feelings and expressions.

A S P A C E F O R W O M E N

My experience had an impact because now I am able to understand more. I am able to understand people’s feelings and thoughts. I understand that other people out here are going through the same thing as me, just in different facets of life. The experience showed me that it could be worse or it could be better.

I do believe that other women in my community will benefit from the program.

Where I’ve been to some of the same life changes we all experience traumatic things that have happened. It pushed us a long way to stop and realize they were going through some of same stuff. We would talk about it and the different routes. Khadijah

Before I started the program, I was at my breaking point, going off on everybody, not caring who I hurt or what I said to people. The program helped me in so many ways. I’m happy I joined because it was well needed and I learned how to not keep things in or to myself. I think other women in the community could benefit from the program because it’s more women in life in need of some kind of help or that’s hurting and are ready to tell their story.

Sierrah

A S P A C E F O R W O M E N

I would describe myself as Independent, lonely, and nonchalant. I would say independent because I always felt like I was alone with everything I go through or been through, and lonely because it always made me feel alone and depressed and by myself. I was nonchalant to everyone and anybody. There was no one I would talk or vent to because I felt no one would understand. Then I came to this group and witnessed women who have been through some or similar situations I have, and noticed how they were willing to open up and be a shoulder for another as well. It helped me too.

My experience in this community has impacted me in many ways. I feel I needed help to be more stress free. I always felt like others was the reason I was always angry because of something they did to me. I realized I didn’t have to feel no type of way by anything anyone did. I could just ignore and cut them off, and when I came to the group they reminded me and made it known to me that we are all responsible for our own feelings and anger.

I do think other women will benefit from this community. This community is very caring and a place away from depression, somewhere you can be heard. A lot of times that’s all women/ladies want is to be heard and CRED women are women who hear you, see you, and remind you that you are you and help you to realize it yourself. Minnie

A S P A C E F O R W O M E N

Different women come to the sisterhood for many reasons. Some women may have been just like me. When I first started at Chicago CRED, I was not lost, blind, blank minded, or unconscious to the way my life was spiraling out of control. Actually, I was wide awake! I knew I wanted better.

The sisterhood of Chicago CRED helped give my guidance. They gave me the aid I needed. Sometimes people want to change but have no help, support, services and tools to get to the next step. They help you to know just who you are at your fullest potential, showing young women who haven’t always had it easy, or not been taught the right lessons.

My experience in the women ’ s community has impacted me because they helped me find me (Tania). They helped me remember who I am. I know my worth, my powers. I know that I can do anything! My mind too. I think other women can benefit from this experience. It will bring you to your fullest potential. If you ’ re stressed, hurting, lost, etc, they will help step by step! Tania

A S P A C E F O R W O M E N

When I started the program, I was beyond lost mentally, in a deep dark sunken depression that I felt would NEVER go away.

This community has impacted me to want to be a better me. To be a woman of dignity, respect, loyalty, & determination plus so much more. They have helped me realize it’s way more to life than what I was told. They helped me better my mental and take control of my emotions. Most importantly they had an enormous impact on my self love.

I do think other women can benefit from this program. I think that because you have a group of women uplifting you, helping you, motivating you, inspiring you, there’s no way you can’t grow from that. They have experiences of everyday life so they’re not just speaking from a book but from the heart. And they don’t try to change who you are, they just want to make you better & I love that the most. That I’m able to be my true authentic self and still able to elevate in life in a positive way. Tiarra

Reflections of a Warrior

E F L E C T I O N S O F A W A R R I O R

The way I see myself as a warrior who is outgoing, who is willing to save lives and who makes sure everyone is smiling. - Ashley S.

I see myself as a Warrior because I’m not afraid to fight for what I believe in. I have the strength, the courage to challenge more opportunities, so that I can be successful and complete my goals, while keeping a good reputation so that I can leave my children my legacy. I won’t quit and will do whatever it takes to win. Bianca A.

In some ways I see myself as a warrior because all I do is put people on my back and carry until I can’t no more. My reason for saying that is all I do is put others before myself just to make sure they’re straight in any and every kind of way possible. I even got that tattooed on the side of my neck. - Charmiese

I see myself as a warrior in every aspect of life, but most importantly, I see myself being a warrior woman because at the weakest moment I found myself, I know who I am now. I am powerful and an amazing woman. Dasheona

I see myself as a warrior because only the strong survive. I’ve been put through God’s toughest battles and yet I came out on top and am undefeated. Everybody goes through things, but only a true warrior survives. Desiree

I O R

R E F L E C T I O N S O F A W A R R

I’m a warrior because I witnessed going through the bad and still came out on top. What I always take with me is no weapon shall form against me. Because I was in a situation when a weapon tried to be against me and God blocked it till where I’m here to still talk about it. It’s not what you go through it’s how you overcome it. It’s how you heal from it then teach someone else so they don’t make the same mistakes you made.

I was mad then one day I just decided to stop feeling sorry for myself. Bad things happen to people. You can either learn from it and do better, or keep making excuses and not growing. I can’t say I’m fully healed, but when I think of where I was compared to where I’m at now, I’m grateful and will always be grateful for life itself! Erica S.

I see myself as a warrior because a warrior is brave, a soldier that fights thru their struggle. I have been in a battle with myself thru the negative and fought thru it to perfect my character and to become a woman of excellence in every area of life. Being in the Circle of Roses group gave me courage and the skills to help me thru my struggle. I have stood my ground with my negative and turned it to positive. We all were once blind but now we see and that’s something that I live out. I have achieved my greatness by pushing for change. Frances B.

R E F L E C T I O N S O F A W A R R I O R

I’m a warrior because I see myself as a warrior because no matter what I’m going through, I still manage to smile. Jazmin

I believe as a woman I was a born warrior. I don't let anyone tell me what I am unable to do. I challenge myself to do my best at completing different tasks. I learn from my failures and try to improve myself from my mistakes. I am open with my feeling and I learning it's okay to be sad and it's okay to laugh out loud until tear comes out of my eyes. I may not say much but I shine with my warm heart and unconditional love. I have a forgiving heart and my love of God and myself shine bright. Jamika Smith of Teena's Legacy

I been through some tragic things in life and I’m still getting through them. I hold so much weight on my shoulders. Everything that was meant to break me in life is making me the strong queen I am today. That's why I’m a warrior! - Katrina

I see myself as a warrior because I’m a Black woman that still stands to tell her story. - Khadijah

I see myself as a warrior due to the fact that right now my life is literally NOTHING. I am literally at rock bottom, and every time I turn my head it only gets worse. But yet I still see myself pushing and getting through every obstacle, even tho they are still coming and won’t stop. Minnie

R E F L E C T I O N S O F A W A R R I O R

Words that come to mind when I think warrior . . .

Fighter, Protector, Brave, Experiences, Courageous and newly discovered a person who establishes individual goals and cultivates strength and skills to accomplish them.

So, in what ways do I see myself as a warrior? Well, not only do I have this “tatted” on my finger but . . .

I am, Black woman (Fighter)

I am, mother of three daughters (Protector, Experienced)

I am, a survivor of molestation, sexual assault, domestic violence and cancer (Fighter, Brave, Courageous)

I am, a college graduate (Set goals)

I am, a helper in the healing arts (Cultivating skills)

I AM A WARRIOR. Ms. A. Butcher, Chicago Cred

R E F L E C T I O N S O F A W A R R I O R

I believe as a woman I was a born warrior. I don't let anyone tell me what I am unable to do. I challenge myself to do my best at completing different tasks. I learn from my failures and try to improve myself from my mistakes. I am open with my feeling and I learning it's okay to be sad and it's okay to laugh out loud until tear comes out of my eyes. I may not say much but I shine with my warm heart and unconditional love. I have a forgiving heart and my love of God and myself shine bright. Ms. Coffee, Chicago Cred

I see myself as a warrior because I have been willing to be curious even in the face of fears. Despite feeling like an imposter in various spaces, I make a daily commitment to learn and grow. Being a warrior doesn't necessarily mean you are strong, it means you make an effort to thrive (even when fear feels like the only feeling you are able to name). Naimah, ConTextos, Chicago Being able to take my hand and reach out to help another soul by educating, inspiring, promoting, helping to heal, understanding, listening, having an open mind, respecting, and motivating the next loving person is what allows me to see myself as a warrior. Niecey, Chicago Cred

I see myself as a warrior because no matter what life throws at me, from being shot to feeling like the whole world hates me, I never give up no matter how hard life gets. Shamshyra

I am a warrior because I am a brave, experienced soldier, a fighter. I am a hero. Sierrah

R E F L E C T I O N S O F A W A R R I O R

When I think of a woman warrior, I picture Viola Davis leading her all woman troops in Woman King. But then I pause and realize that not all warriors carry weapons of forged steel or embody the height of physical excellence. Warriors walk among us everyday; we pass by them on the street and never even know. When I pause and acknowledge this, I realize that I am one of those warriors. I meet each day with all that I have in that moment. I meet the day and I give all that I have to give to those I work alongside, to those I serve, to those I love. And doing those things is never easy, as my life, like all lives, is complex and complicated. Therefore, because I am, I am a warrior. slm When you join the program you ’ re being brave. Taking chances, stepping forward for change. At the moment that’s done, you decide to fight. It won’t be an easy ride and you ’ re aware of that. Self reflecting is one of the hardest things a person can do. It requires you to be strong, brave, and show leadership, and most of all, it requires you to fight and remember to push through. These are everything it takes to be a warrior, so just in taking steps, you ’ re a warrior.

Tania

I see myself as a warrior because I have overcome EVERY obstacle life could have thrown at me. I never gave up, not even on my worst day. Everyday I figured out a new plan ,even if it wasn’t a successful plan. In the moment I still didn’t let nothing discourage me. Even the death of my grandma, better known as my mother. I still kept going even though everything in me wanted to give up on life itself. I have elevated to a level at the age of 18 I think didn’t even think I’d be here. When I look back on my life I have a warrior’s story, and that’s what keeps me striving. But now I have young women that look up to me. Now I’m a leader so giving up, turning back, etc. isn’t even an option.

Tiarra

R E F L E C T I O N S O F A W A R R I O

RI’m Black. I’m a woman. I’m a mother. I’m independent. I’m respectable. I’m determined. I’m me.

I fight everyday. Even on days that I’m mentally down or physically tired, I get up. I keep pushing and I keep my faith. When life is going bad, I make sure I’m around positive people to bring my spirits back up. I persevere through the hard times to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

I fight everyday.

- Tekeirra

I see myself as a warrior that stands firm in my space and creates a place for others to come and do the same. I strive to be an example show up for my assignment with the women I serve. I am intelligent, strong, relentless, strategic, observant, loyal, fair, skilled, and determined. Everything about my journey was created for the women I serve, I am never confused. I am God’s Daughter, therefore I have all that I need to meet and overcome my fears and fight my own battles. Mrs. Necole Muhammad, Chicago Cred

I O R

E F L E C T I O N S O F A W A R R

I’m a warrior

Because I am amazing, Because I am tough. I’m a warrior Because I have the ability To fight and protect, Because I am bold and courageous. I am a warrior Because I am fearless, My strengths motivate me, I defeat my enemies.

I am a warrior. I’ve overcome my past. I’m determined for change. I am a warrior.

My pain gives me discipline. My selfishness brings “Faith.”

I am a Warrior.

Tiffany, Chicago Cred

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Front cover image by Naimah Thomas All photographs by Naimah Thomas & SLM Book design by Naimah Thomas