One thing that I am proud of is being a black woman. Although I am black 365 days, I can appreciate black history month because it educates people about black people and what we have done for humanity—starting with everyday inventions that people mindlessly use and never think about.

Black history always reminds us of slavery and what our ancestors endured. Today, the modern approach is to do just that but also support black businesses and entrepreneurial moves that black people are making. It reminds us of what our ancestors had to go through and all the pain they endured being treated less than human. The pain they bared to get their freedom and our freedom today. We would not have the right to vote, eat-in restaurants, live in neighbourhoods, drive, run a business, get married, have families (on our terms) and overall freedom. We are far from equal opportunities today, but some of our oppressional chains have eased up.

Even though I celebrate the Lunar Year in February and pay respects to my 爷爷 (grandpa), I also celebrate being a black woman and all that my ancestors endured for me to be in the position I am today. Without them, the things I take for granted, like being educated and owning a business, would never happen. Of course, there are many challenges today being black and female. However, I am in a position to make changes thanks to them, and I am reminded of that every day, I get into my car, work at the clinic, and get coffee at Starbucks. I come from a long line of entrepreneurial women, that did great things.  In their time  it was much harder to run a business not only being black but being a woman. Being a black female and having the job I have, I am grateful because they paved the way for me. It would not be possible without their struggle; I have the privilege because of their hardhsips. I am grateful for the sacrifice. Now it is my turn to carry the torch.