Saint Escrava Anastacia “Anastacia” Anastacia, holy Anastasia, You who were borne by Yemenja, our mother, Give us the strength to struggle each day So we may never become slaves, So that, like you, we may be rebellious creatures May it be so.
Beloved by Toni Morrison illustrates the historical use of an iron bit as an instrument of torture that also silenced its victims. Further research suggests that not only was the instrument painful, it permanently disfigured the face of its bearers i

“Saint Escrava Anastacia, holy Anastacia,

You who were borne by Yemaya, our mother,

Give us the strength to struggle each day

So we may never become slaves,

So that, like you, we may be rebellious creatures

May it be so.

Amen”

— Popular prayer to St Anastacia

“Beloved by Toni Morrison illustrates the historical use of an iron bit as an instrument of torture that also silenced its victims. Further research suggests that not only was the instrument painful, it permanently disfigured the face of its bearers into a crooked smile.”

— Irina Popescu