Homophones- noun, each of two or more words having the same pronunciation but different meanings, origins, or spelling.
The polarizing use of melanin in recent times is a perfect example of a homophone. Every publication under the sun has featured a story discussing what "melanin", "black girl magic", "black magic" is without truly understanding the importance of melanin. To truly understand what melanin is to watch lives dwindle away by hands under oath and proudly go forward each day with more pride then ever; because you know those slain lives don't diminish the power of melanin. Melanin is the ability to see opportunities skip over you, but remain humble as you know your opportunity isn't given but created.
"Don't ever give up. You have a right to inherit the universe. It was given to you the moment you were born."-Shonda Rhimes
See, we've been taught that melanin is our armor our shield and unspoken truth. It is with great esteem we wear this uncategorized beauty and learn how to navigate life. It is with courage that we wear this discriminating skin color and watch the world marvel at the gifts of our culture. It is with glee, we smile and look to the sky and understand the melanin we have is a possessive, intoxicating, fulfilling asset that isn't attainable- no matter how media coverage.
Photography- Gioncarlo Valentine
Art Direction- Jai Pugh
