Marie Laveau was a free Black woman in 19th century Louisiana – in more ways than one. She refused to be intimidated by anyone or anything, and she made it known. But during colonial times this cavalier disposition would prove troublesome.
Laveau was a well-respected spiritual leader in the local community. She counseled those seeking prayer or comfort, and actively helped the incarcerated work through the vile mistreatment they experienced from jailers. She was an astoundingly beautiful woman as well, and consistently refused the advances of white men.
Of course, white people were infuriated, but they did nothing to her. Why not?
They painted her as a magical creature, a seductress thirsty for white men, and even a murderer. Her legacy became one associated with “voodoo,” black magic, and even Satanic rituals. Of course, this was all a lie.
Though we are innovative, creative, and amazing, we’re not magical beasts. When we’re empowered and living our best lives, we’ll always be a threat and a source of confusion to those who think we’re beneath them – but like Laveau, we should simply pay them no mind!