The last month had been an extremely emotional rollercoaster for me. I am finding myself at a loss for words to describe exactly what I've been feeling. I tried taking a break from social media, I tired avoiding the news. I've tried journaling and focusing on work. All in an effort to protect my peace.

I am here today to say that protecting your peace is important but as a black female my peace is relative. I don't think I have ever lived in peace. My existence is one of constant fear, constant pressure to do the right things, say the right things, be the right things to everyone around me. It is a defense mechanism instilled in me from birth. As mechanism I find building within my own children. It is painful and disheartening to share this legacy of struggle with them.

That is why I and Serpentine Creative are choosing to be vocal in our support of the current protests. I am tired but I must fight for the change I want for my children. The same change my ancestors worked so hard to achieve for me and the rest of my generation.

BLACK LIVES MATTER

Stella Williams & The Serpentine Creative Team