Meaning: The quote by Audre Lorde, a renowned poet, activist, and writer, reflects on the importance of consciously cultivating tenderness and love among Black women. It speaks to the idea that the natural expression of love and care among Black women has been disrupted and taken away, possibly due to the historical and ongoing experiences of oppression, discrimination, and marginalization that they have faced. Lorde's words call for a deliberate and intentional effort to reclaim and nurture the love that should exist between Black women.

Audre Lorde was a pioneering figure in feminist, civil rights, and LGBTQ+ movements, and her work often centered on issues of identity, race, gender, and social justice. As a Black woman herself, Lorde's writings frequently explored the experiences and challenges faced by Black women in a society that often devalues and overlooks their voices and contributions. In the quoted passage, she highlights the need for Black women to relearn and reestablish the bonds of love and support that have been eroded by external forces.

The phrase "we have to consciously study how to be tender with each other until it becomes a habit" suggests that the act of showing tenderness and love toward one another should be a deliberate and learned practice. This implies that the natural inclination or instinct to express love among Black women has been disrupted or suppressed, requiring a conscious effort to rediscover and embody it. The use of the word "study" implies a level of dedication and commitment to understanding and practicing tenderness, emphasizing that it is a skill that may need to be relearned in the face of societal challenges.

The quote also references the idea that the love of Black women for each other has been "stolen." This notion carries a weight of historical and systemic harm, pointing to the ways in which Black women's relationships and connections have been disrupted and devalued. The impact of systemic racism, misogyny, and other forms of oppression has contributed to the fracturing of communal love and support among Black women. By acknowledging that this love has been stolen, Lorde sheds light on the broader societal forces that have undermined the natural bonds of affection and care among Black women.

The call for reclaiming and nurturing the love of Black women for each other is a powerful and empowering message. It speaks to the resilience and strength of Black women, highlighting the need to actively work against the forces that seek to diminish their connections and relationships. Lorde's words also underscore the importance of solidarity and mutual support within the Black community, emphasizing that the restoration of love and tenderness among Black women is essential for collective healing and empowerment.

In conclusion, Audre Lorde's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the need to consciously cultivate tenderness and love among Black women. It calls attention to the impact of historical and ongoing oppression on the natural expression of love and care within the Black community, while also emphasizing the resilience and agency of Black women in reclaiming and nurturing these essential bonds. Lorde's words continue to resonate as a powerful affirmation of the enduring strength and interconnectedness of Black women.