I remember, growing up as a kid, history class was very washed-over. They didn't really get into the gritty bits of slavery. It's a very, very small section in the history books. It's not something they really touch on directly with American curriculums.

We're still talking about women's rights. We can't be the greatest country in the world. I think once we lose that illusionary veil of thinking that we are, we can face the problems and really try to fix them.

I think the knowledge of where you come from gives you more of an affinity for understanding different cultures and learning.

I can literally count on one hand how many slave stories have gotten notoriety over the past few years.

Despair - or as I like to call it, des-pair - means feeling unpaired in a world in which it feels like everyone else is paired with a good job, a happy marriage, loving family, caring, and hope - and you're not.

I love Adele. When I see her, I may kiss Adele.

The man I love may decide tomorrow that he loves me no more - but if my heart remains open, I will endure the storm.

Marriage was coined at a time when people died when they were 30. That stability would be nice, and I am definitely open-minded about it, but I don't need it in that way some women do.