PDF Summary:Just as I Am, by Cicely Tyson

Cicely Tyson, award-winning actress and pioneer, recounts her extraordinary journey in Just as I Am. Born in Harlem in 1924, she faced poverty, discrimination, and personal tragedies—yet refused to accept limiting societal norms or portrayals of Black women. Tyson's candid memoir details how she rose to become a groundbreaking artist, intentionally selecting roles that showcased the strength and humanity of African Americans.

She shares insights into her early life, conflicts navigating family dynamics, and the racial barriers she confronted in her career and personal relationships. Tyson reveals her motivation to use her prominent platform to advocate for racial equality and shatter stereotypes through dignified representations on stage and screen. Her story serves as an inspiration for transcending life's struggles through resilience and courage.

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Their parents instilled in them the expectation of unavoidable unfairness and the importance of countering such challenges with a steadfast dedication to diligence and scholastic success. Cicely Tyson and her brothers and sisters placed a high value on educational pursuits. They regarded it as an emblem of freedom from economic struggles, providing a pathway to a safer setting and the achievement of monetary steadiness. In a nation where the accumulation of wealth by white individuals was largely through the ownership of homes and properties, Black people were consistently denied these avenues for generating wealth due to biased lending policies and redlining. Education was regarded by my parents as a crucial instrument, one that could open previously shut doors and serve as a weapon against the systems designed to keep us oppressed.

Experiences of prejudice and bias that Tyson encountered personally

She encountered racial insults and stereotyping as she matured, shaping her self-perception and identity.

Tyson first confronted the stark reality of racism during her initial year of elementary school. She describes the moment her Italian classmate recited a poem clearly revealing the prevalence of prejudice, even among children. The encounter, though casual, left a sting and its echo, filled with laughter, persisted throughout her subsequent years. Her looks also attracted criticism. She remembers being ridiculed and called names like "thin," "nigger," and having hair that was closely curled. The relentless teasing she faced while playing outside was a major factor in her development into a more reserved person. She quickly grasped that, within the broader community, there existed a distinct pecking order based on skin tone and physical traits. The more your appearance resembled that of a white person, characterized by lighter skin and less tightly coiled hair, the more you were deemed acceptable. Features of African descent were often disparaged. The intelligence of Black individuals faced scrutiny and was unjustly deemed genetically inferior.

Tyson recounts these experiences not to elicit sympathy, but rather to expose the profound layers of this cultural narrative, especially to those of white heritage. Cicely Tyson's choice of characters and her genuine portrayal to the audience were profoundly shaped by this crucial element. Cicely Tyson dedicated herself to altering the dominant narrative concerning individuals of African descent. I made it my mission to transform how Black women are viewed, making certain that their intrinsic worth was consistently represented. Her career path transformed into an open disavowal of the deceptions she witnessed.

Cicely Tyson dedicated herself to leveraging her celebrity status to highlight the inherent worth of Black individuals, particularly in light of the demeaning treatment of Black women who were often confined to roles of domestic workers.

At eleven years old, Tyson joined her mother for an outing to shop in the Bronx. Tyson observed a group of twelve women of African descent lined up by the roadside, each aspiring to be chosen by potential white employers for a job opportunity. Tyson reconciled herself with the severe truths of her circumstances. Cicely Tyson found it unexpected that her mother, a woman of grace, was judged based on her manual labor and outward conduct, even though she was aware of her mother's employment in domestic service. The era underscored the disdain for Black individuals, showcasing the deep-seated racial discrimination woven into the nation's history, which Cicely Tyson noted across a range of literary creations and expressions of culture.

Cicely Tyson likens the United States to a tapestry of separate entities rather than a single entity, all guided by a higher power and joined together under one flag. During the 1920s, she noted that there was a substantial increase in prosperity and a widespread feeling of boundless happiness among white Americans. The period that ushered in economic prosperity for white individuals was primarily characterized by struggle within the African-American community. The disparities in opportunity, the exploitation of Black labor, the dehumanizing treatment of her people—these realities became a wellspring for Tyson’s activism. Cicely Tyson recognized the special duty her esteemed status in the performing arts world entailed and was committed to upholding it.

Cicely Tyson intentionally selected roles that portrayed African American individuals in a dignified and positive light, challenging the biases she encountered in the entertainment industry.

Tyson asserts that the marginalization and devaluation of Black individuals extended beyond the broader community. During the 1960s, Hollywood still faced discrimination, despite being part of circles that professed to be forward-thinking. In her first venture into the movie industry, her director advised her to portray herself as a decade younger, a strategy intended to extend her tenure in an industry that often sidelines those deemed beyond the ideal age to embody the quintessential heroine. Elia Kazan, a director held in high esteem during that era, openly shared with her his belief that the simple inclusion of a Black woman in a stage production often redirects the attention of the audience towards sexual themes. He decided against hiring Tyson for that specific reason. Throughout the advancement of her professional life, she consistently faced similar forms of discrimination.

Even when a high-quality script emerged centered around a protagonist of African American heritage, the compensation offered frequently highlighted the low regard Hollywood had for the talents of these performers. Cicely Tyson often received compensation that was markedly lower than that of her white counterparts, even though the parts they played were less complex and required less subtlety. Instead of yielding to the widespread racism in Hollywood, Tyson converted those constraints into the driving forces behind her determination. She carefully chose segments that represented the full spectrum of our authentic experiences. She relentlessly championed fair compensation and expanded prospects for performers with African heritage.

Exploring the evolving terrain of cultural norms

Her involvement in the Civil Rights Movement era profoundly influenced her views on how the arts can effect profound societal change.

Cicely Tyson experienced her early development and the beginnings of her career during a time of significant societal change in the United States. The birth of the Modern Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s was ignited by the shocking killing of Emmett Till in 1955, as well as Rosa Parks' bold refusal to give up her seat on a racially segregated bus that year. The Baptist minister from Atlanta became a leading advocate for individuals striving to break free from oppressive constraints, known for his crucial involvement in the civil rights movement. In the South, peaceful demonstrators encountered the harshness of billy clubs and fire hoses, with places of worship frequently targeted for bombings and advocates for equal rights facing deadly assaults.

The author, deeply inspired by the objectives of the movement, acknowledged the significant role that fictional stories play in reflecting and shaping societal discourse. Cicely Tyson began to view her career as something beyond merely a means for artistic expression or earning an income. Her carefully vetted roles served a higher purpose. Her platform was utilized to heighten awareness and champion change. Cicely Tyson's determination to infuse her work with political significance intensified, especially in light of the film industry's reluctance to portray stories that mirror the lives of Black people. She remained unflinching in her portrayal of the struggles faced by Black individuals. She remained unafraid to use her status and clout to challenge the entrenched racial prejudices within American culture.

Cicely Tyson consistently rejected roles that reinforced detrimental racial stereotypes, a decision shaped by her experiences amidst the rise of the Black Power movement and evolving views on racial equality.

The civil rights movement was cast into deep mourning with the killing of Dr. King in April 1968. The campaign supporting autonomy and the right to self-governance for Black individuals garnered significant support following the display of its impact. Numerous individuals expressed their discontent with the speed of advancement. They asserted that change must be achieved through whatever means are essential, even if it necessitates the use of force. Malcolm X, who was assassinated in 1965, embodied the core values of the movement and was instrumental in its progression.

The movie industry likewise underwent a significant shift, with an increase in films highlighting Black superheroes and revolutionary figures. Blaxploitation films arose to satisfy viewers who were eager to see courageous protagonists of African American descent. During this period when cultural identity became more prominent, Tyson intensified her commitment to portraying individuals of African descent in a way that preserved their integrity and genuine nature. The films, though captivating in their portrayal of main characters, consistently reinforced racial stereotypes, particularly through the exaggerated portrayal of the sensuality associated with Black women. Tyson believed that engaging in such characterizations would not challenge the system but instead would continue to reinforce the stereotypes she sought to dismantle. She steadfastly refused to accept any character that would degrade her community.

Cicely Tyson utilized her prominence and influence in her field to draw attention to racial disparities in society and advocate for significant changes.

Tyson’s rejection of numerous roles cost her financially. She enhanced her earnings from her acting career by taking on temporary clerical roles and secretarial work, which, for many talented Black artists, often marks the limit of their prospects rather than a mere transitional phase. She viewed those moments as critical landmarks in her professional journey. To cover her financial needs during periods without acting roles, Tyson accepted invitations for appearances at various college campuses and other locations. She seized those moments to talk about her film endeavors while championing change. Cicely Tyson recognized the power of a strong story to mesmerize audiences, bringing them into a world where they could truly grasp the humanity of characters who had once been portrayed as lesser or neglected. She imparted her wisdom through speeches, inspiring her audience to remain vigilant and take initiative.

Tyson's career trajectory was steered by a deep-seated intention, reflecting principles that evolved alongside her during the decade of the 1960s. Cicely Tyson felt a profound spiritual urge to embrace acting as an avenue for activism in the time of the Civil Rights movement, inspired by Martin Luther King Jr.'s courageous stance that the arc of the moral universe bends toward justice. She observed Rosa Parks' steadfast resistance, which ignited a boycott in Montgomery that expanded significantly, eventually leading to a widespread challenge against the nation's deeply rooted systemic injustice. The author's convictions are profoundly influenced by historical events, particularly the protests and demonstrations, instilling in her a firm belief that individuals blessed with extraordinary opportunities and privileges have a duty to leverage their influence to improve the world around them.

Practical Tips

• You can explore the history of your own family to understand how past injustices may have shaped your beliefs and behaviors. Start by interviewing older relatives about their experiences and the societal challenges they faced. Document these stories in a journal or a digital archive to reflect on how these narratives have influenced your own life and to preserve them for future generations.
• Create a personal media policy to consume and support content that portrays all individuals with dignity and respect. This means actively choosing movies, TV shows, and books that avoid stereotypes and instead offer nuanced, respectful representations of diverse characters. Keep a log of the content you consume over a month, noting the portrayal of different characters, and adjust your viewing and reading habits accordingly to align with your values.
• Use your social media platforms to amplify voices that advocate for equality and positive societal change. Follow activists, thought leaders, and organizations that work towards racial equality and share their messages with your network. This not only educates you and your peers but also contributes to a larger movement by increasing the reach of important messages and calls to action.

Cicely Tyson's career in the realms of performance and the entertainment industry.

Cicely Tyson discovered her genuine vocation in the realm of creative arts.

Cicely Tyson's enthusiasm for dramatic arts and storytelling was cultivated from her initial performances in church plays.

Cicely Tyson's deep love for the church was the spark that fueled her enthusiasm for the performing arts. Even as a bashful girl, she felt comfortable in this world that had been her one constant from birth. She found solace and joy in reflecting on and singing "Blessed Assurance," a hymn her mother adored, accompanied by the deep tones of the organ. In her home, where worldly amusements were considered sinful, involvement in the dramatic arts was not supported; however, the wives of church elders often arranged modest skits for the youth to participate in. These productions, unlike Hollywood fare, were considered sacred endeavors, and thus exempt from such judgment.

These experiences were of great value to Cicely Tyson. During her early years, she often took center stage as Mary, Jesus' mother. As she spoke her lines and channeled the essence of this woman so deeply revered, she witnessed how storytelling could both captivate the audience and transport those who delivered it. The encouragement and applause provided by the congregation played a significant role in fostering her budding artistic abilities. Cicely Tyson discovered comfort and strength in uttering phrases that resonated deeply, transcending her individual life, and these became a core part of her identity and a longing that would, in time, manifest itself in a distinctive theatrical setting, witnessed by countless individuals.

Tyson discovered solace and a way to express herself in her early involvement with music, showcasing her commitment and skill in her craft.

Tyson discovered solace and comfort in her musical endeavors, particularly through her piano performances, which were a separate aspect of her life from her early acting roles within her religious congregation. Her mother, intent on instilling cultural values in her children, secured a local teacher to give piano lessons. Tyson discovered that the harmonious sounds produced by the piano brought her the same comfort she used to find in sucking her thumb when she was younger, despite the diminishing enthusiasm of Emily's sister for the instrument. As a teenager, her skill with the instrument grew significantly, which resulted in her performing for the church's choir as well as its members. She acquired proficiency in playing the organ through self-instruction.

Tyson found immense satisfaction in carefully refining her abilities, remaining unwaveringly dedicated to perfecting her craft. Each period spent on the hard wooden bench, both preceding and following her school day, not only sharpened her skills but also fostered a discipline that was advantageous in her later pursuits. Her steadfast dedication to practicing the piano was on par with her father's relentless pursuit of work through continuous shifts. Her meticulous commitment to her craft was molded by the entrepreneurial ethos of her family. Her piano playing was characterized by a level of determination that mirrored the effort her parents put into cleaning homes and pushing carts to support their family.

Entering the Entertainment Industry

She embarked on a successful career in the fashion world, shattering norms and paving the way for African-American models with her grace and dignity.

Fortune frequently surprises its recipients. Tyson began her career in the early 1950s, finding her niche in hairdressing, which offered her financial autonomy and an opportunity to showcase her skill in styling hair. Her high school French teacher noticed her knack for fashioning her hair into various sophisticated updos. Miss Byrne predicted that your hairstyle would eventually be a key factor in your rise to significant achievement. Her observation proved to be more perceptive than expected, with subsequent events unfolding in ways she had not predicted. While strolling along the street, Cicely Tyson was suddenly accosted by a businessman donning a red bow tie who erroneously assumed she was a fashion model. "He instructed her on how she ought to conduct herself."

His declaration steered Tyson onto an uncharted path. After an acquaintance told her about Barbara Watson’s modeling school in Harlem, Tyson enrolled for a course and began working on her portfolio. Cicely Tyson regarded her foray into the modeling industry as a practical way to ensure her financial stability rather than an act of self-admiration. Before achieving stardom, she worked in various capacities including clerical duties and providing support in production and administration. Even though she was regularly employed, she remained unfulfilled. She pursued this new path with enthusiasm, determined to establish a career that would liberate her from the confines of office tasks and ultimately bring her acclaim that transcended the mere receipt of timekeeping accolades. The author first gained small parts when an editor from a publication noticed her potential as a model, until Barbara, with her sharp insight, realized her client's exceptional grace, allure, and composure. Cicely Tyson's image graced numerous magazine covers, prompting her to resign from her secretarial position.

Transitioning to acting, she was supported and inspired by her manager, who also played the role of her mentor, Warren Coleman, enabling her to face her apprehensions and nurture a growing enthusiasm for the craft.

Cicely Tyson's foray into modeling began after a serendipitous encounter, and in a similar vein, her ascent to acting was influenced by a series of unforeseen circumstances. After leaving a photo shoot, a colleague from the magazine commented on how perfectly Cicely Tyson's look suited an upcoming movie part. The film's director, Warren Coleman, who was recognized for his amiable nature and keen ability to identify talent, swiftly acknowledged the potential in Cicely Tyson. He suggested she take the leading role in "The Spectrum," the inaugural film from his newly established company. Regrettably, the film's production was never finalized. Nevertheless, it paved the way for Tyson's inevitable foray into the dramatic arts, leading her to the dynamic realm of stage acting in New York's renowned theater district.

Cicely Tyson had a keen understanding of the subtleties of human behavior, recognizing the underlying motivations and the various ways people express their emotions and ideas. Cicely Tyson initially set her sights on a career in psychology, yet she discovered her genuine calling in hairstyling, prompting her to abandon her initial career goals. Warren's support played a crucial role as she embarked on a new direction, allowing her to express an extensive spectrum of emotions, spanning from sheer joy to profound concern. She experienced the thrill of bringing a story to life that held its audience spellbound. Cicely Tyson's early life was shaped by the magic of narratives, singing alongside her father and listening to radio programs, which forged her identity as a perfect conduit for narrative art. Her initial hesitation to embrace her newfound vocation quickly evolved into an intense enthusiasm, as she diligently analyzed scripts and sought opportunities to build her career in the industry.

Achieving stardom

Cicely Tyson was highly praised for her complex and nuanced depiction of Black female characters, especially for her roles in "Sounder" as Rebecca and in "The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman" as the lead character.

From her first screen debut in Carib Gold in 1956 through more than two dozen roles over the next twenty years, Tyson had proven herself an actress of note, steadily gaining industry recognition. Cicely Tyson consistently pursued prominent roles that genuinely depicted the complex realities and obstacles characteristic of her community, even after achieving considerable success. Cicely Tyson's role as Rebecca in the 1972 movie "Sounder" marked a pivotal point in her acting journey, illustrating the life of a sharecropper family in the South during the 1930s. The film attained considerable financial success during the peak of the Blaxploitation cinema period. Cicely Tyson's historic moment came when she was recognized for the highest honor in acting, a distinction no Black woman had achieved since Dorothy Dandridge, forty-five years earlier, and her image and name were showcased on billboards around the world.

The television movie "The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman," which debuted in 1974, depicted the journey of a woman from her days in bondage to her involvement in the struggle for civil rights, based on the book by Ernest Gaines. Tyson took on the challenging task of portraying the evolution of a character from her teenage years at nineteen to the venerable age of 110. Her parents initially teased her and made remarks regarding her often taking on roles as impoverished, subjugated African descent women, but eventually, they came to realize the importance of the personas she portrayed. Their daughter's career trajectory was neither a transient fancy nor a descent into misfortune; rather, it proved to be significant and impactful, as evidenced by the unmistakable pride her parents harbored. Cicely Tyson deeply desired her mother's acceptance, and after a period of tension, she finally received a heartfelt recognition filled with emotion and tears. Tyson cherished the Emmy recognition she received for her performance in Pittman, which included an exceptional distinction for leading actress and the unparalleled honor of being named Actress of the Year at the time. The approval that she valued above all others came from the woman she esteemed most.

Cicely Tyson gained recognition for her pioneering contributions to the film industry, always selecting roles that highlighted the complexity and dignity of African descent characters.

The author intentionally selected parts early in her career that evoked a deep emotional reaction from Tyson. In essence, to act only in films and plays whose stories resonated with them on a deeper level. Cicely Tyson strengthened her commitment to leveraging her career in acting as a catalyst for social change following her celebrated roles in "Sounder" and "The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman." Cicely Tyson understood that the arts have a dual role in both forming and reflecting societal views, thereby shaping and mirroring our perceptions of ourselves and those around us through the individuals depicted on film. She consistently sought out roles that represented the full spectrum of experiences within the African-American community and steadfastly rejected any parts that would reinforce enduring racial stereotypes. In a profession that frequently relegated Black women to the stereotypical parts of seductresses and domestic workers, Tyson intentionally chose characters that highlighted our persistent resilience, as well as our dignified composure and ethical integrity.

At the onset of her career, she received an opportunity to audition for the supporting part that Eartha Kitt had previously performed in the play "Jolly's Progress." Throughout their weeks of collaboration, Kitt never spoke to Tyson, but this had no impact on her as she was focused not on mimicking the famed singer but on meticulously studying her to grasp the fundamental aspects of performance art. Her intuition became alert as she absorbed her surroundings. In the dressing room of the star, Tyson unintentionally overheard Kitt commending her talents while on a phone call. The casual praise from a seasoned professional confirmed her promise in an industry that has frequently marginalized Black creatives, providing Tyson with the confidence and recognition she needed.

Cicely Tyson's lasting impact on the Black entertainment industry is characterized by her mentorship and joint efforts with emerging talents, including Viola Davis, as well as established figures like Denzel Washington and Tyler Perry.

Cicely Tyson served as a generous guide and advisor to numerous Black artists during her career. While rehearsing at the YMCA's "Little Theater" in New York City, Cicely Tyson crossed paths with Sidney Poitier, a person of similar stature. She offered mentorship and backing, playing a pivotal role in his opportunity to helm a theatrical production. A group of progressive individuals and innovators from the fields of performance, literature, and theater came together to revolutionize the cultural landscape, prominently led by individuals like Harry Belafonte, Ruby Dee, and Ossie Davis. Cicely Tyson's legacy includes her high regard among later generations, as well as her advocacy for individuals to display their unique talents, commit their creative work to the improvement of their communities, and persist with the pursuits that have defined her life.

Cicely Tyson is clearly a mentor, as seen in the supportive relationship she shares with her fellow actress, Viola Davis. Cicely Tyson's captivating portrayal in the 1974 television drama "The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman" profoundly impacted a young Viola, who was then experiencing severe poverty. The budding actress found a profound connection with the depiction of Black women, which were characterized by emotional and artistic depth, marking the start of her personal journey. During the production of "The Help" in Mississippi, an emotional Davis tearfully expressed her profound gratitude to her mentor for the considerable influence she had on her life. In the twilight of their careers, they came together to embody the roles of a mother and daughter in the television drama "How to Get Away With Murder." Cicely Tyson was a constant source of guidance and support for Davis, helping her navigate a career filled with deep-rooted obstacles.

Practical Tips

• Explore your hidden talents by joining a local community group focused on the arts, such as a theater club or a choir, to see if you have a passion similar to Tyson's discovery in church plays. By participating in these groups, you can identify and nurture a potential interest in the arts that you may not have realized you had. For example, if you've always enjoyed singing in the shower, joining a choir could be a stepping stone to discovering a deeper interest in vocal performance.
• Use music as a therapeutic tool by learning to play an instrument like the piano, which can be self-taught through online tutorials and apps designed for beginners. This can serve as a personal outlet for expression and may also improve your mental well-being. For instance, dedicating 20 minutes a day to learning piano with apps like Simply Piano or Yousician can be a relaxing and fulfilling hobby that also hones a new skill.
• Mentor someone in your field of expertise or seek out a mentor for yourself, emulating the supportive relationship Tyson had with her manager. This can be done through professional networking sites like LinkedIn, where you can offer guidance to newcomers in your industry or reach out to experienced professionals for mentorship. By doing so, you contribute to the growth of others and also gain valuable insights and encouragement for your own career development.