LOS ANGELES: Queen Latifah, an actress, has been open about how her sense of self has changed over the years.
The Equalizer actor said she "didn't know she was a girl" when she was small during an award speech at the first TheGrio Awards in Beverly Hills, reports aceshowbiz.com.

"For me, it all begins with my family. My parents taught me that being Black makes you beautiful. Black is lovely, Black is lovely. Black is fine" the 52-year-old  Queen Latifah explained.

"When I say it often enough, you begin to believe me. I was unaware at the time that the entire globe was what they were preparing me for." "At first, I had to be told that I was a girl since I didn't know it. That needed to be explained to me because I was running around like the boys with my T-shirt off. Because I was free, all of these things had to be explained to me before I could play sports" she added.

 Thus, it would appear that I have spent my entire life striving to protect my right to self-expression. Latifah is aware of her identity at this time. "I wear these stunning dresses and gowns because I want to because it's a part of who I am. I play basketball with the lads and in the mud because that is who I am. Because I am who I love, I love that person. I am aware of myself. I am aware of my actions and inactions." Later, the "End of the Road" actor urged the audience, "I'm aware that life is short and that all you can do is your best. Try to be as sincere and sincere as you can." She also added, "Never believe what others are attempting to convince you of about yourself. It is untrue. Don't believe what others are attempting to tell you about yourself, I said."