In my own
words
Hi, I’m Ebony Morrison. My life has been an incredible journey, shaped by the loving care of my mother and grandmother. They instilled in me values that have become my compass—kindness, compassion, and a deep desire to positively impact others. Their unwavering support has propelled me into the woman I am today.
In my own
words
Life has presented me with both triumphs and heartbreak. As a freshman at Auburn University, I lost my mother to breast cancer—a pain that shook my world. My mother was my foundation, and losing her felt like losing a part of myself. Her strength, even in her hardest days, became my strength. Later, I transferred to the University of Miami to be closer to my grandmother and to honor my mother’s legacy. Returning to my hometown allowed me to continue my education and my running career, pushing forward with the perseverance and resilience that my mother exemplified.
As I pursued my professional career, my dedication to track and field became a driving force in my life. Turning professional in 2018, I was fueled by the desire to honor my mother’s memory and make the most of every opportunity. Despite facing personal loss, multiple injuries, and battles with anxiety and depression, I persevered through my darkest moments, relying on my determination and faith in God. It wasn’t always easy, but each obstacle taught me resilience and the importance of mental fortitude. Ultimately, my hard work culminated in a dream come true—representing my paternal Liberian heritage at the Tokyo Olympics. What began as a child’s aspiration to run track transformed into the remarkable reality of becoming an Olympian, a journey filled with unforgettable moments. Those experiences taught me that with passion and determination, the possibilities are endless.
However, the journey has not been without its challenges. In 2022, just a year after my first Olympic Games, I faced a significant test of endurance when I nearly lost my grandmother to a brain bleed. This period of uncertainty and fear was a painful echo of my earlier loss. Yet, it was through this experience that the lessons from my mother’s strength and resilience became even clearer. Her courage, and the fortitude I inherited, provided the inner strength needed to confront this new hardship. This reinforcement of my belief in perseverance highlighted that continuing forward, despite daunting obstacles, is a tribute to those who have shaped and inspired us.
Representing Liberia, a small West African country with a rich history and resilient spirit, is a profound honor. Despite often being overlooked on the global stage, Liberia’s heart and determination shine brightly. I am equally proud of my Black American heritage, which has shaped my identity and driven me to excel despite the challenges of being a minority. Every time I step onto the track, I carry the pride of both Liberia and my Black American roots. My journey is not just about personal achievement but about lifting up a country and a community that continue to rise despite their challenges. For every little girl watching, I want them to see that no matter where you come from, no matter how many times you are overlooked, you can still stand among giants. I am living proof that dreams are not limited by geography or circumstance—they are only limited by how hard you’re willing to fight for them.
In 2021, I reached the semifinals of the Tokyo Olympics, marking an unforgettable chapter in my journey. That experience fueled my determination for the Paris Olympics in 2024. Despite the many challenges I faced, I made it to my second Olympics and became a semifinalist once again. These achievements are a testament to the power of relentless focus and the unwavering grit I’ve developed along my journey.
Beyond sports, I have a deep love for the arts. Photography allows me to capture moments of beauty, while acting lets me explore captivating roles and immerse myself in storytelling. In my quiet moments, you’ll find me meditating, connecting with my inner self, and seeking balance in life.
Every step of my journey has been a lesson in courage, resilience, and the boundless potential within each of us. Through the victories and setbacks, I’ve learned that our greatest strength often emerges in our most challenging moments. My story is not just about athletic achievement but about the triumph of the human spirit. I hope that by sharing my experiences, I can inspire others to pursue their dreams relentlessly, find strength in adversity, and believe in the power of their potential. Life is a precious gift from God, and with each day, I strive to honor that gift by pushing my limits, spreading positivity, and making a meaningful impact on the world around me.