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Raven-Symone

Source: Santiago Felipe / Getty

Raven-Symone appeared on Essence Live to discuss her host spot on The View, new acting roles, Black Twitter and all the criticisms she gets because of her unique opinions. From being from every continent in Africa to not wanting Harriet Tubman on the $20 bill, to telling Beyoncé to put on pants, Raven’s seen enough hot water from her critics to last a lifetime. But that’s not going to stop her from voicing her opinions.

“My mom gave me good advice: ‘Opinions are like a-holes, everyone has one.’ I have my own and I respect others are well. I feel very comfortable with them [cast], so I am ok expressing my opinion. Since I did my little retirement before I chose to be on the show, I got comfortable with my own personal thoughts,” Raven said.

MUST READ: Black Twitter Snatches Raven-Symoné For Her “Every Continent In Africa” Comment

She’s been in the industry for almost as long as she’s been alive. Starting out at three-years-old, you’re told what to say and Raven says that you get used to that and you start to think that your opinion isn’t in tune with things. “Sometimes they’re not and I’m ok with that,” she said. “It’s jut me and I never said I’m speaking for an entire people. It’s always about me. My experience is different than yours.”

When asked if she feels Black Twitter is still upset with her, Raven said, “I don’t even pay attention. Somebody else told me they were mad. I don’t read it,” Raven laughed. “I only speak for myself. I’m sorry you’re mad about what I feel. There’s so many things going on in the world, I think people need to look at the bigger picture and how we need to grow as a society.”

She went on to say that Oprah told her that Black Twitter’s going to hate her. And they do. And Raven doesn’t care. She seems to be laughing all the way to the bank and then the fairytale salon where she gets her tresses dyed pastel purple.

Perhaps the most interesting bite from Raven’s chat with Essence Live is that she wants to be a mother. “I would love to just be a human and be a mom,” Raven admitted. Oh Lordt. Imagine this fascinating mind raising a human being in the world.

Check out the segment on Essence Live below:

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