It could be your mother, a friend or a teacher. Have they expressed themselves artistically? Worked to better their community? Achieved academic success? Empowered others and embraced diversity? Share their stories here.

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Berta Maria Hines, M.D.

Portland, OR, United States

Ingeborg Hermine Leubner from the Czech Republic gave me life and Marianne Schosser Hines gave me a life. She legally adopted me in Augsburg, Germany as a single woman at the age of 20. It is interesting that my first mother Ingeborg was encouraged to give me up because of my African- American heritage. Yet, Marianne felt so proud to have me in her life. At that time many multi-ethnic children were being sold, given away or abandoned. As a child I was always confronted with the energy of being “chosen”. Not until after Marianne’s transition, did I realize that she had chosen ME! Mama was very much a non-conformist. Her strength was truly extraordinary. I AM “Greatful” for both mothers.

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