My spine carries the burdens of my ancestors 

My heart holds the dreams of my mothers before me

My honey colored skin connects me to a country of women 

who hold dreams, just like mine

who are oppressed and weighed down

never being able to live out their goals, their dreams

In my darkest moments, I am inspired by every young girl living in my country

the girls who dream of having an education

the girls who are used and abused, for simply being girls

the girls who struggle to survive, yet are the symbol of resilience

 

I am inspired by my mother, who left her home

who gave up her dreams, so I could dream

I am inspired by my strong father

who is dedicated to my empowerment and education

I am inspired by my younger sister

I dream of showing her what being an Indian woman truly means

In my weakest moments, I feel the comforting presence of my Indian sisters,

all around me

who are counting on me

to pave a way for them

 

When I am lost

drowning in my fears

doubting my power 

I am reminded 

that I am connected to a generation of women

who paved the way for me

I am reminded

that despite these obstacles

despite the cards against me

I am divinely supported by my ancestors

I am inspired when I dream of the change I will bring 

I am inspired when I dream of all the women of color

who will be able to live out their dreams

because of me

No amount of hatred, racism, and bigotry

will ever destroy the spirit of 

a woman of color.