"Growing up I had a hard time with accepting my identity. It's very hard to be black, a woman and Muslim in America. Recently it has been really hard identifying as a Muslim. People are often surprised that I'm a Muslim because my name is Mary and because I don't wear a hijab. However, I'm very faithful, and I know that Islam teaches peace and empathy. Islam even teaches one to be at peace with enemies and opposers. Hopefully one-day society will realize that Islam doesn't teach violence, nor are all Muslims terrorist. Hopefully one day my Muslim brothers and sisters will not be paid extra attention when they go through security checkpoints. I hate to admit this, but hopefully one day I will not be hesitant to reveal my religious background in professional settings. It's a shame that in 2016 I still pose a triple threat to people: woman, Black and Muslim. I may be darker than the majority, and believe in a different God than the majority, but I shouldn't be treated any different than everyone else, after all this is America…..  Right? I promise once you get to know me, you'll realize that  I'm not a violent or angry Black, Muslim Woman.

As-salamu-alaykum (may peace be upon you)."