Uhuru Issue #7 | Page 5

Meet the beautiful and ever glowing Mary-Ana Baker. A voice that truly captures you every time she sings. A singer by trade, she has even dabbled in acting. One that is truly open minded about life, and what makes us grow as human beings. A real beauty of African decent this lady is going places, and welcomes one and all with open arms. Armed with seductive eyes and a killer smile. Truly captivating.

As a black woman are you proud of your identity?

Of course I am proud to be a black woman. I'm absolutely in love with my highly melanated complexion.

Did you think enough is being done to encourage to cultural/ethnic identity in the country?

No I don't think enough is being done. I'm 30 years old and still trying to find out more about my heritage/background.

As a woman what changes will you implement to help with cultural/ethnic identity?

I strongly believe in being in my natural state. I wear my natural hair, I use mainly natural products on my skin and hair. I also think we should all start growing our own food (in our backyards).

Do you think these are good values (cultural/ethnic ) to pass onto children?

AbsoluteIy I wouldn't say them if they weren't good cultural/ethnic values for children.

What does emancipation day mean to you?

Honestly I couldn't imagine being born in a time of slavery. What my ancestors went through is admirable. My rights and my freedom means everything to me. On one hand, I don't always feel like we're fully emancipated; not with the current affairs. However, on the other hand, I feel like we are emancipated but we don't have the courage to embrace it.

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"wooden comb" symbol of beauty and cleanliness; symbols of desirable feminine qualities.