When you think of inspirational and influential women look no further than the Director of The El-Hindi Center for Dialogue & Action at InterFaith Works CNY, Bishop Colette Matthews-Carter. The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI )consultant, trainer, and speaker has reconnected with her love for the arts and poetry and has embarked on the journey of sharing her moving and creative artistry with the masses.
Influential People News Readers, please enjoy our interview!
What sparked your interest to become a poet?
Bishop Colette: Initially, I became interested in poetry as a teenager. I was attempting to give voice to the things I was experiencing and feelings that I did not understand. I also became interested in acting and African Dance. My dad who was a civil rights leader exposed me to African American history and gave me context for the Black experience I was witnessing. I became inspired by Coretta Scott King and Dr. Martin Luther King as well as other civil rights leaders. At the time, I found myself in a predominately white school where my sense of belonging was challenged. As a result, I wrote my first poem entitled “O Ebony Face.” That became my first published poem at the age of 14 years old.
What was the turning point that stopped your poet journey and please describe the moment when you knew you had to tap back into your artistry?
Bishop Colette: As a teenager, I struggled with depression and that made it difficult for me to focus on my creative energy. When I got to high school there was so much emphasis placed on me to go to college. So I used my limited energy to graduate from High School and enroll in college. While in college I became reacquainted with my passion for poetry. I began to write again. I also entered several poetry and writing competitions on campus.
What are you looking forward to now that you rekindled your love for the arts and poetry?
Bishop Colette: I am making an intentional effort to support the Arts as much as I can, especially on a local level. It is important for communities to have the voices, expressions, and work of local artists who tell their stories through various genres. That’s what it’s all about — telling your story. I hope to tell my story through poetry so that I can encourage others in their journey.
What can we expect from you as a passionate poet?
Bishop Colette: One thing you can expect from me is authenticity. I write from a place of vulnerability and transparency. I hope to inspire and empower others on a similar path.
We understand that Dr. Maya Angelou is a huge inspiration of yours. Why and what is your favorite poem by her?
Bishop Colette: Yes! I absolutely love and admire Dr. Maya Angelou. A writer par excellence, she continues to inspire me. I think I have the majority of her writings. From “Still I Rise” to “Phenomenal Woman”, Dr. Angelou has touched me in deep places. I can only hope to touch people like she did. Her artistry is fluid and powerful. What I find even more compelling is her personal story of triumph from the hurt and harm of her childhood. One of the fondest memories I have is meeting Dr. Angelou when she lectured at Cortland College years ago. She had me mesmerized and spellbound. May she continue to rest with the ancestors.
Can you share a poem with us? We would love to read one!
Bishop Colette: Yes, Absolutely.
Why We Dance
By: Bishop Colette Matthews-Carter
I know why we dance
The power is rhythm
No pain and no shame
We smoke and smile
Let loose for awhile
I know why we dance
To feel the Spirit
The glory of God
The pain of peace
The silent trance
I know why we dance
To connect with
Our ancestral land
The smell of the air
The bush, the empire Kush
I know why we dance
Cause we’re magic
Gold magic so sweet
Lord I pray
My soul you keep
Dance baby
Dance baby girl
Dance and twirl
Dance in the wind
My precious pearl
What is a fun fact about yourself that many people are not aware of?
Bishop Colette: I love to collect coffee mugs. I have several sets from all over the world. I always buy two so that I can share a cup of coffee with someone and it’s important for the cups to match. I am somewhat of a coffee connoisseur. I love the smell and taste of coffee. I’m an early riser and I love nothing more than to have a cup of coffee in one of my collectible mugs. It’s always reflective & meditative as I think about all of my blessings. I am grateful and I usually start my day that way.
What are some of the best characteristics you possess that you believe will make you a beloved writer?
Bishop Colette: I am not afraid to tell my story and I hope to connect with people through the art of storytelling. I can only hope to be beloved one day. If people are inspired by my writings to push through and persevere then I will be pleased with my work. I hope they feel my love.
Lastly, we would ask, many times writers draw from personal experiences. What are some personal experiences we can be on the lookout for that you will be writing about
Bishop Colette: I like to write about personal triumph. I draw from the experience of my birth mother who died shortly after giving birth to me and what that loss feels like. However, that loss is what makes me who I am today. So as I lean into personal discovery I heal and regain more pieces of myself that have been lost. I also draw upon my faith, relationship with God, and the history of my ancestors.
To learn more about Bishop Colette Matthews-Carter be sure to check out some of her latest published articles via Vocal Media, and Our Black Woman Magazine.
Also, be sure to get connected with her online:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/colette.matthewscarter/
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/colette-matthews-carter-00983b225/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bishopcolettecarter/
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