January 31, 2024
Dear Little Black Queer Inner Child
Dear Little Black Queer Inner Child,
You’ve never met someone queer that looks like you.
You’ve been told that you’ll go to hell for loving like you do.
I’ve kept you hidden in the shadows because of these fears.
Chained in mental prisons of shame, hiding back all my tears.
Especially when you heard the way they talk about being lesbian and gay,
Which reminded you of the ways you used to drop down and pray.
I hope you find rest in knowing that you were never the one in the wrong,
But rather beautiful and worthy all along.
From being Black to Being Queer,
Singing out love for all those to hear!
Dear Little Black Queer Inner Child
It’s time for the world to see you shine out loud.
Reflection Questions for “Dear Little Black Queer Inner Child”
In my experience, I’ve worked with a variety of BIPOC queer clients that have not been permitted to notice, explore, or even bear witness to the burdens their inner child holds related to their sexuality and gender. If this poem connects with you, I encourage you to write your own. Here are some potential prompts:
How did your culture (race, religion, ethnicity, etc.) discuss race, sexuality, and gender?
What did you believe about your identity growing up? What were you told to believe?
Describe an encouraging role-model that is BIPOC and LGBTQ. What would they say to you when you were a child?
If you could go back in time, what would you want the child/teenage version of you to know about their identity?
Kayla Bell-Consolver
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
She/Her
Kayla Bell-Consolver (she/her) is an EMDR, IFS Level 1, and DBT trained Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Iowa, specializing in trauma, inner child work, and shame, with a passion for serving BIPOC and LGBTQ communities. She has extensive experience with public speaking and educational trainings, especially from an inclusive lens.
From a young age, she had a desire to help others in an intentional and inclusive way. Mental Health therapy is not always accessible, therefore she was dedicated to exploring ways to enhance accessibility through presentations, public speaking, and remaining an active participant in community and systemic change.
Kayla Bell-Consolver provides a comprehensive set of trainings that can help boost your confidence in helping yourself, clients, or staff with mental health challenges through various speaking and educational training engagements. She works closely with partners and organizations to achieve their desired goals and ensure that attendees leave inspired and rejuvenated. Please browse her services and get in touch if you’re interested in working with Kayla.
