My Nana, Shirley Bradley Price LeFlore, spoke not in whispers but in powerful declarations that will resonate through the ages. She transformed the everyday struggles of Black women—like gossip at the beauty salon, harmonies in the church choir, and the ache of a lover’s absence—into something precious. Shirley’s poetry was more than just beautiful language; it served as a guide for survival, helping us navigate a world that often sought to diminish and silence us. Throughout my upbringing, her words were a steady presence, reminding me that our voices really matter.
Shirley wrote about women who were both fragile and fierce, who loved passionately and fought bravely. In her work, there was no singular definition of “woman,” but rather a rich array of experiences — young and old, light-skinned and dark, educated and self-taught. She illustrated that womanhood is not a single entity but a complex tapestry of resilience, humor, and an indomitable spirit. Shirley gave me the freedom to embrace my messiness, my complexity, and to be unapologetically myself.
Shirley’s poetry extended beyond the written word; it was embodied in her presence. She carried herself with quiet dignity and an inner strength that shone through. She taught me, often without explicit words, that our voices hold power, our stories deserve to be shared, and we have the right to occupy our space in the world. Shirley instilled in me a pride in my heritage, a deep respect for the women who paved the way before me, and a duty to honor their struggles and victories through my own life.
Her legacy endures not just through the books I possess, whether authored by her or by others, but also in the way I approach life and how I navigate the world. It influences how I love, advocate for justice, and work to shape my own narrative. Shirley’s words formed the foundation of my identity, providing me with ongoing strength and inspiration. She taught me that being a woman, particularly a Black woman, is not a burden but a birthright—a beautiful, powerful, and ever-evolving journey.
—Noelle S. Lindsay-Stewart
SBLF Board Member
