42 Quotes by Mara Brock Akil

I can't disappear. I come from a family of beautiful women, strong women - and 'strong' defined by being themselves.

With 'Girlfriends,' even with 'The Game,' or even with 'Being Mary Jane,' I didn't get a chance to wrap up the story and, more specifically, show love.

I'm very connected and passionate about what I put out in the world, and I want to get things safely to shore.

When I was in '97, I didn't know I was in a very major moment. But with the privilege of reflection, I do. And that's what artists should do - they should help illuminate and reflect the human condition.

I wanted always to be a storyteller of the fullest expression.

In 'Girlfriends,' I was exploring the idea of having it all. In 'Being Mary Jane,' I was exploring the idea that you have to be the center of everything.

I've been having a 20-plus year conversation with black women, starting with 'Girlfriends,' moving through 'The Game,' 'Being Mary Jane,' even 'Sparkle.'

That's what this industry is all about - supporting artists and supporting storytellers and hearing the audience for what they want and need. There still is a lack of value for what black women want, yet we have proven to be one of the strongest consumers in the marketplace.

When you realize you don't own someone, you show up every day to try to make sure they stay in your life.