50 Shades of Brave

A Photo Series by Bethany Owens

Tiara

“I found my bravery through faith and by saying ‘I love myself’ every day. Admire who you are even in your worst moments. Understand you have your own purpose and that’s enough.”

Pauline

“I know I’m brave because I have been forced to view people objectifying me in an empathetic and loving way. I continue to be myself even if others don’t appreciate me and what I represent. If you represent anything, there will always be people against it, and that’s okay because you can still be brave and accept yourself.”

Jeru

“I’ve battled masculinity norms without fear of being scrutinized by male superiors in the community. It’s especially difficult for a black man because there seems to be a certain way people expect them to act. It’s a lot harder to be yourself when you’re dealing with standards you didn’t create.”

Alanna

“I’m not afraid to be in solitude. Whether that’s alone in my perspective, or physical being. I’m usually the only black woman in my class and it helps me be more confident and true to myself, as well as to my thoughts and beliefs.”

Andrew

“Everything around me wants me to be weak and fearful. I like to do the things that most people won’t or can’t do, showing that there can be love amongst strangers.”

Alfonso

“I have big dreams. It won’t be easy for me as a person of color, so I will definitely have to work hard and prove I can do it. I am pursuing screenwriting because I want to create representation for people of color, particularly Asians. One day I will see myself represented on the big screen.”

Sparticus

“I grew up under the impression that Asian men were supposed to have “sophisticated” titles, such as doctors and lawyers. When I decided to become an artist, I realized we do have the potential to be in that “sophisticated” category no matter what field we go in, it just depends on how we present it. As a graphic designer, I want to make an impact with my work, giving people a voice and bringing them together.”

Angel

“I try to be as unapologetic as possible. I acknowledge what society expects of me as both an an individual and a person of color, but if it’s different from who I am I won’t do it. Take time to know yourself and your worth.”

Raz

“I like to talk about my culture. I think it’s important to see beauty in the things that people think are scary.”

Bethany

“I wake up and despite what society says I call myself flawless and beautiful. Then, I strut out the door like the world is mine, because I don’t believe it is, I know it is.”