“Only a black person knows what it feels like to grow up young, poor and black in the United States of America. Our children are our future and need to be reeducated to survive the narrative of structural racism. We as a people, as a community, need to hold every African American parent accountable in regard to their parenting duties and reponsibilities. Look to your children as the turning point in your family line. The brainwashing of our children stops here and now. They will receive two educations, one in the school and one at home. It’s time to stop being selfish and invest in their spiritual, financial, physical, and emotional well being. Love them, protect them and educate them. Do not put your hands on them and control your emotions. Do for yourself and do without if you have to but never stop striving to be better. Do not sell your soul for wealth or fame. Do not sell your self-respect for money. Stop asking and start doing, for yourself and your community. This column will be an ongoing conversation in hopes of us manifesting greatness. We will, together, begin the journey of raising intelligent, loving, affluent, strong and beautiful children, together.”
THEY TOLD ME TO STOP DREAMING.
THEY TOLD ME TO GET IN LINE.
THEY TOLD ME MY VOICE DOESN’T MATTER.
THEY TOLD ME I WILL NEVER AMOUNT TO ANYTHING.
THEY TOLD ME YOU ARE LESS THAN NOTHING.
THEY CALLED ME A LOSER.
THEY DESPISE ME BECAUSE THEY HATE THEMSELVES.
THEY GAVE UP AND WANT ME TO GIVE IN.
THEY UNDERESTIMATED MY TENACITY.
THEY DIDN’T KNOW MY STRENGTH BECAUSE I WASN’T BUILT LIKE THEM.
