What is it in human nature that sees something beautiful and wants to consume all that it is? To find any way to exploit that beauty to our own benefit until there’s nothing left; until our satisfaction runs out, taking us along with it to seek something new? Why do we continue to flex our insecure superiority when our perception reflects a threat to our power-hungry egos?

The essence of the determined black woman is an effervescent force rivaled by the gluttony of a world intent on stripping her of all that she is.

She’s told that she’s too loud and that she must lower her voice and silence her emotions. That she can only succeed by being the foundation behind a great man. She’s told that her skin is not light enough, that her hair is not straight enough, and that her greatest contribution is through the use of her body.

Claude McKay noted how she is “devoured” by an “eager, passionate gaze” in his poem, “The Harlem Dancer.” A century later, she still succumbs to sexual desire in the likes of Kendrick Lamar’s laments: “Keisha’s Song” and “Sing About Me/I’m Dying of Thirst.”

Ironically enough, she is shamed when she takes control and liberates herself. The fulfillment of her own desires gets her labeled as promiscuous, and her assertion of her needs gives her an angry demeanor. These biased images of women of color are nurtured by mainstream media. From the oversexualized music industry to the impoverished, petty, or otherwise oppressed portrayals in Hollywood. No matter what she does for her advancement, she is met with criticism. Complacency to the commands of man seems to be her only saving grace.

But the tides are turning with ferocious force. Just two months ago, we received one of the top ten most successful films in the world. The beautiful and powerful female leads in "Black Panther" displays the effectiveness of teamwork—rather than a hierarchy—between men and women. Freeform’s television show "Grown-ish" resonates with young audiences for its social activism and strong female portrayals without coming across as a sermon.

I’m writing because of the strength of my Mother, the determination of my Nana, and the advancement of my baby sisters (no matter how grown they think they are.) I always want them to believe in a world that still believes they’re beautiful and can do any and all things through a matter of their mindset.

To all the queens coming up in this movement: you never needed permission, but now more than ever is the time to embrace your power. Just remember that you’re not alone. There’s a lot of people on your side that believe in all that you are, and all that you have the potential to become. Surround yourself with those that are going to encourage you spiritually, emotionally, and physically as you build yourself up.

In a world influenced by Oprahs, Alicias, and Yaras, tell me… What kind of queen will you be?