Each Contributing to the Whole – Keisha-Gaye Anderson

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March 8, 2020

Big Drum Nation [BDN]: We have seen lately a resurgence of International Women’s Day as a global movement. What does the International Women’s Day slogan, #EachForEqual mean for you in your work life?

Keisha-Gaye Anderson [KGA]: I think it is time for us as human beings to see each other as equal in every way, uniquely positioned to contribute something that only we can contribute something to society and essential, and know that we are essential to our collective evolution. 

BDN: Much of your work is centered on self-empowerment and self-determination. How does your feminism impact the multiple roles you play as a worker, parent, and writer?

KGA: One of the most important things I’ve learned in my journey is how unique each person is and the fact that each of us has different talents that contribute to the whole, so my belief is that if people are encouraged to amplify that uniqueness, the solutions to our most pressing problems will undoubtedly emerge. WIth respect to me being a woman, I would just say that my lived experience of marginalization based on gender and sex only solidifies this belief. What I mean is that once gender roles are stressed in one’s socialization, natural abilities that are coded male or females are either encouraged or discouraged, depending on the gender of the individual. So an assertive woman is not always welcomed or encouraged to explore her leadership abilities but she may well be the best leader in a given situation. 

BDN: What do you think is the biggest issue today facing women and girls today?

KGA: Worldwide reproductive rights still determine anything from a woman’s life expectancy to income she may generate, and ultimately her autonomy as a sentient being. Bodily autonomy is a basic human right that should exist at this stage of our development as humans. 

BDN: How do you think the confidence gap, resulting from historic anti-women prejudice and oppression and violence, affects women today?

KGA: Perception may not be the reality but has real and measurable impacts on our lived experience. If I am disregarded before I even have an opportunity to share their knowledge and ext, what a waste of an opportunity to build something powerful. 

BDN: Is there a particular female figure that presently inspires you? 

KGA: There are so many… Audre Lorde’s fearlessness is an inspiration. Octavia Butler’s expansive imagination is an ins, Tony Morrison’s searing intellect is another inspiration. The women who inspire me the most have created their own spaces in society where there were none, and have drawn others into their orbit by their sheer brilliance. I am more fond of people who challenge the stifling grip of conforming and tradition for tradition’s sake. We must always be open to change so that the society we create serves our greatest good at a given moment. 

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Keisha-Gaye Anderson is a Brooklyn, NY based poet and visual artist. She is the author of Everything Is Necessary (Willow Books), Gathering the Waters (Jamii Publishing), and A Spell for Living(forthcoming from Agape Editions). Her poems, essays, and fiction have been widely published in anthologies and literary journals. Keisha is a past participant of VONA and Callaloo writing workshops and was shortlisted for the Small Axe Literary award. In 2018, she was selected as a Brooklyn Public Library Artist in Residence. Keisha holds an M.F.A. from The City College, CUNY. Learn more at www.keishagaye.ink.