Blog 4

After reading "The Transformation of Silence into Language and Action" by Audre Lorde I have to say I understand and agree with everything she is saying. Audre's intention in writing this piece was simply to inform her audience on why you should stand up for yourself and its benefits. In her piece, she stated “My silences had not protected me. Your silence will not protect you.” This line impacted me because this is something I’m currently struggling with. That line best resonates with me because I understand that basically what she says is closed mouths don’t get fed. In other words, if you quietly speak up because you don’t know what opportunity you could be handed. I see this happening in the world all over for example when students go to financial aid and ask for extensions or scholarships. You speak your mind in some cases will get you opportunities you never thought of.

Reading Audre’s writing piece gives me the courage to take a stand. In the beginning, she goes on to point out how when she first found out she had to have breast surgery she was scared. She then went on asking questions to the doctors which put her more at ease since she was able to be comfortable with them. Which is another example of why you should speak up on things that concern you most times it benefits you. Something as serious as that couldn’t compare to my day-to-day life which gives me the courage to speak up. If I ever had the opportunity to speak to Audre I would ask knowing that speaking up takes a lot to accomplish what would you suggest to those who struggle to get things out. 

Overall, Audre has presented a powerful theme of speaking up! Audre is teaching everyone a lesson to open up about things that concern you. Learning how to communicate effectively allows you to gain opportunities. Audre is someone to admire because she’s showing everyone that you can speak up.