Most of all, I dislike this idea nowadays that if you're a black person in America, then you must be called African-American. Listen, I've visited Africa, and I've got news for everyone: I'm not an African.

There are roles I am never considered for. Meryl Streep roles, let's say. Why not? I really wanted to do 'Ironweed,' for example, because the depression era in this country was one of the best for multiracial people, because everybody was poor. Everybody lived in the tents, and under buildings, and under gratings, together.

I'm fighting the label of 'Black' actress simply because it's very limiting in people's eyes, especially people who are making movies.

When I listen to these women, it makes what I thought were my hard knocks feel like little nudges.

I don't have pet peeves; I have whole kennels of irritation.