Sisters of No Mercy

Artist Statement

The title of this painting is indeed an oxymoron. From age six to age thirteen, my elementary school hours were spent with nuns that called themselves “The sisters of Mercy”. They demanded respect, without giving respect. All the nuns and priests were White and unabashedly racist. Arrogance and sly bigotry sullied every school day. 40% of the students were Black. The nuns and priests called us “colored”. 60% of the students were White. My fourth grade teacher was a merciful exception. She was kind, respectful, considerate, and understanding. She smiled. She was nurturing and encouraging. She left after her first year at the school. I am so grateful for the year that I spent in her classroom. All the other nuns remained.

— Linda Ternoir