. THE AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMAN I am a woman, not just any woman but an African American Woman. I come in many different shapes, forms, and fashions. I am tall, short, sophisticated, full of richness and grace. I am black, I am beautiful, I'm an African Woman. I am a Doctor, A Lawyer, a Teacher, a Preacher, I am a Dentist, a Dancer, a Writer, a fighter, but most of all I'm a survivor. I have paid my dues, now I demand my respect, I demand to be acknowledged, I will be desired, I will be admired. I will not be ridiculed, nor will I be criticized, I'm black, I'm beautiful and I must be recognized! I am a African American Woman, I am here to stay. -Kelly Williams (Thanks Ms Williams for this up beat words of courage)