Self Portrait: Self Love

Womyn's empowerment. College Park, GA. March 30, 2021

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Being a 17-year-old Raphael, I’m here to cleanse hurt people. I took my pictures because some of the meanings behind these go so much deeper than just what you see. I’ve been in the stage of suicide, getting injustice from people because I’m an african american bisexual girl, and it turned my life around to where I was so unhappy and stuck in a dark place,

Courage is what you need in this society, and also knowing that what you give out to people is what you get. That’s why “I am ME.” I know my circumstances are better or worse than others’, but that fearful and traumatized person inside of us has to come out in some way. Just believe.

Being determined and dedicated in this life, and knowing that crying is ok - there is always someone like me to come to your rescue and help you see that you’re someone important in this life. YOu will be who you want to be without any guilt or shame, knowing I will be by your side being who I want to be without any guilt or hesitation.

I am blessed. I have NOW become open to the world. I can feel people’s vibes. I am courageous. I am self-sufficient. I am still here, so I know I have a purpose. I am me.

Justice is to see someone else’s point of view, to see the other side, instead of just your opinion. Realizing other people have feelings and a heart.