The Brilliance of Blackness: An Essay

I settled into my seat by the window. People scurried in all directions as the city brimmed with activity. The light rail train passed by, ringing its signature bell. The seasonal aroma of cinnamon lattes, holiday treats, and fresh bread added to the cozy ambience. I must say the cafe was lovely; it was a wonderful place to read and write in the afternoon. “Thank you,” I smiled as the kind server brought me warm jasmine tea and the delicious chocolate chip cookie I’d ordered. Intrigued by the cover of the book on the table, she leaned in to get a closer look. Moments later, she was still standing there.

“Hmm.” I nodded slowly as she spoke with conviction. I understood that a good ear is hard to find these days. Everyone had the right to share their authentic thoughts and feelings without reproach, provided they were genuinely being respectful. Truthfully, I wasn’t obligated to engage. I just wanted to read my book and write in peace. Books about the Black experience always seemed to trigger some people, or in this case, invoke unwanted conversation. Black people truly want to be left alone. White people, we’re not always looking to have deep discussions with you about race, systemic oppression, or whatever else you deem important to us. Quite frankly, it’s rude and tone deaf to make that assumption.

Most of our lives, we’re navigating non-Black spaces that honestly don’t give a damn about our lives, stories, and struggles. This couldn’t be clearer today as the Government wages its invisible war on diversity. Black women have lost their jobs at a record pace this year. Let it be known, Black women are the most educated and qualified group on the planet. This attack on our people is disgusting and cannot be tolerated. It will not stand as our brilliance continually shines above the noise. Although our road has not and never will be easy, we persevere. We’re a resilient people.

They try to criminalize our love of self. Loving your Blackness is not an indictment against others. Enforcing our boundaries is not an act of war. We live in a world that prioritizes lies over the truth. We’ll navigate a post-truth society by embracing knowledge, history, and genuine love of our people. It’s how we invigorate the next generation of Black leaders. Our skin is not a crime. Our thoughts are not worthless.

We must teach our children to be thinkers. We must teach them to create. We must teach them to relish knowledge and truth. They must love themselves. For Black people, this is of the utmost importance. Our excellence is often rooted in our innate ability to create. Our brilliance shouldn’t be suppressed even in a society that usually attempts to reject and erase our contributions. We shouldn’t dim our light out of fear that we won’t be accepted. Acceptance isn’t the goal. We don’t owe anyone an explanation for existing as our truest selves. Often imitated, never duplicated, our art, music, literature, innovation, and scholarship matter.

A long Walk: An Essay

The rustling trees made their presence known as I carefully ducked to avoid their fragile limbs. Void of leaves, they stood tall against the mountainous backdrop as a beacon of strength in nature. This walking path is amongst my favorites; I often gather my thoughts here. My daughter’s laughter fuels me as I pull her along in her wagon. She points at a curious jackrabbit that hops by. The simple things catch her attention. Our time together is invaluable. She’s still discovering the world around her. The innocence in her eyes recharges my soul. One day she’ll understand the challenges of being a Black woman in America, but that day is not today.

White supremacy is a fool’s game. Black people just want to be left alone. I could argue we’re still living through the Reconstruction Era. History notes, reconstruction ended in 1877, but if we’re honest, the stains of chattel slavery and the Civil War are still ever present. We picked their cotton and filled their coffers. The blood, sweat, and tears of our ancestors can be felt blowing in the air around us, reminding us that our work is not yet finished. Things are still awfully awry despite the significant advancements of our people.

America has never adequately dealt with its original sin. They, white supremacists, often blame Black people for their inability to compete in a nation that has been rigged for them since the beginning. They hate diversity because it exposes them for who they really are: weak, entitled, and glaringly incompetent. Instead of atoning for their original sin, they’ve doubled down. If it weren’t so, they would not try as hard as they have to keep the playing field uneven.

The current administration has leaned into dangerous ideologies that fuel the decay of society. Harmful rhetoric continues to damage what some used to consider America’s strength in the modern age. When did diversity become an unbearable stench? A white only America is their fever dream. It’s an unusual fantasy that will never happen. Despite the opposition, we continue to rise. Despite their open attacks, we continue to march forward, paving a way for our children to thrive in spite of the immense pressure. We will never give up. Our children are depending on us. We ain’t going nowhere. This is our country too. The nation was built by our people. We will continue the fight for equality, access, and the ability to live our lives in peace.

Renaissance of Black Love: An Essay

The moon and its effervescent cast of twinkling stars were a worthy companion as I burned the midnight oil. A shea butter-scented candle burned softly in the background. Its luminous flame danced and flickered amongst the darkness as I examined my thoughts. Mmm, the scent it produced was refined, yet alluring. The mood had been set to convey what needed to be said. Black Woman, may I? I know you’ve heard it all before; empty words have only added credence to the pain and betrayal. I understand, believe me, I do.

Systemic trauma wounded our love. The oppressor still seeks to contaminate and destroy our families. Despite our history, we’ve forged ahead through the mire. Our resilience validates the strength passed down to us by our ancestors. Today, now more than ever, we need each other. Our souls will never know peace until we’re restored.

You’re tired, I can see it in your eyes. You’ve cried in the darkness. You’ve yearned for our love, support, and protection. Your grace is as the day is long. How have we repaid you? With scraps? With broken promises? We’ve betrayed you with our incautious deeds and lack of consideration. We’ve harmed you with our words. You’ve never deserved this. We fuss, fight, and drift further apart. Like a ship without a sail in search of dry land, we’re lost without you. The promised land will remain hidden if we continue to forsake you. There are no streets of gold without you by our side. To sin against thee is to sin against ourselves. The war between us must end. On the battlefield of love, there are only casualties.

Queen, you deserve nothing short of our best. It’s our duty to protect you with our lives. We must honor you with every ounce of our being. We must lift you and support your dreams just as you’ve supported ours. Those who wish to abuse you and profit from your pain must be canceled and dealt with appropriately.

The next generation of men must learn from our mistakes. A renaissance of Black love is needed. Black love is life. Black love is healing. Black love is everything.

Black First: An Essay

The magic and brilliance of Blackness are often overlooked and cast to the side. It will never be seen as the crime against humanity that it is. It’s unfortunate yet expected. I often wonder what it was like to live during the civil rights era— the era of Dr. King, Malcom X, Medgar Evers, Assata Shakur, Fred Hampton, and others who believed in the liberation of Black people. I would be remiss if I did not say that this is our time in history to make a stand. Political violence has always been an inescapable aspect of the Black experience. It’s been there since the beginning. While I don’t condone violence of any kind, it’s often been brought to the doorstep of Black people throughout American history. It is neither wise nor honorable to be ignorant of the past. Historical context is paramount. White supremacist ideas have always and continue to be a danger to Black society. There is nothing new under the sun in America. The sanitization of White supremacy and its relics is an open assault on the livelihood and well-being of my people.

Recent events in America have highlighted an ever-growing divide. The war of words and ideas has spilled into the streets. The talk of race wars and reckless instigation from the current Administration has only elevated the temperature. They’ve made a martyr out of someone who furthered this divide. Indifference does not mean endorsement, just as death does not erase the ills in one’s life. It would appear that blind allegiance to the misinterpretations of American Christianity has led many to show grace to a white supremacist and his cause. These same people have looked the other way when confronted with anti-Black hate crimes and the atrocities in Gaza. This is the same religion that those who propagate hate used and continue to use to justify chattel slavery, intolerance, and genocide, including the assault on democracy today. I’m careful not to indict the faith as a whole, although I personally feel it has created more conflict between us than it has ever solved.

Threats were illogically levied against HBCUs when the perpetrator didn’t align with their agenda. Those in power, under the veil of faux spirituality, would rather push for statues, unhinged forced mourning, and a national day of remembrance for someone who believed I was better off enslaved instead of bringing the country together. I will not utter his name in this composition. They chose to memorialize a bigot in the name of the Lord, who made it clear he believed Black people should be at the bottom of the social and economic order. His crass words regarding the intelligence of Black women are unforgivable as they are simply untrue. His words resonated with many across this nation, many of whom believe they are Christians. Where are their morals? Where is this love of Jesus they mindlessly espouse, yet do not extend? This is America. This has always been America for Black people.

Despite all we’ve faced and continue to face in this country, we still rise to the occasion every day. The love of self and each other is needed now more than ever. For the sake of our children and those who will come after us, we must continue to move forward, intentionally confronting the issues that plague our society. Being Black first doesn’t mean other lives aren’t valuable as well. With each careful step, we’re creating history. The generations after us will judge us for the actions we take today. Choosing to make a difference in the face of mounting opposition is what makes us special. We’re resilient, strong, and proud. The fight for justice and equality continues.

Not Easily Broken: An Essay

My eyes began to adjust to the darkness as I closed my laptop. I’d struggled to string together a few meaningful sentences. Damn, I’d been sucked into the abyss again. The block reared its ugly head, seeking to devour my creativity. For days, I’d barely touched my manuscript. I’d write a few words and close the computer, wondering where my energy had gone. The darkness reminded me of time wasted despite my sincere attempts to be productive.

I dragged myself to bed as the guilt taunted and prodded me. I wondered if I’d ever finish the story that has taken residence on my hard drive. “It shouldn’t be this difficult,” I mumbled under my breath. It shouldn’t be, but it is: this is the writer’s paradox. The struggling writers trope felt more like prophecy.

How can you write an impactful story when you’re reminded daily of an evil system that’s hell bent on disrupting the lives of your people? It’s difficult to plead ignorance and look the other way when things like the Voting Rights Act of 1965 are in the crosshairs of the Supreme Court. Those in power seek to make us more vulnerable.

Women’s rights are being violated by the day. Distressing thoughts of my daughter’s future in a world run by white men armed with ill intentions, deep hatred, and entitlement have taken up space in the back of my mind. They curate harmful legislation in the name of God. Misguided by their insatiable egos, their appetite for human suffering is sacrilegious. What kind of God relishes in the misfortune of the underserved? Their empty souls use religion to justify their ambitions. It’s theatre at best.

These are my musings. As a man who is deeply connected to his soul, I find solace in honesty and deep introspection. Each day is a new opportunity to push forward. We can’t always control what happens around us, but we can certainly choose how we’ll respond.

Soul Talks: An Essay

Rocks crumbled beneath my feet with each careful step I took along the edge of the desert trail. Evening walks at the base of mountains never get old. I’m one with my soul in these moments, I can hear my innermost thoughts more clearly as birds of prey fly in unique patterns above. In the distance, I was drawn to a young coyote playing near a tall cactus that leaned ever so slightly to the right. Perfection doesn’t exist in nature, yet its natural, undisturbed beauty is self-evident. The sun began slowly descending behind the peak. While taking in the picturesque view of the sun-scorched landscape, I felt a calmness descend over me. This place is special. Nature is one of life’s illustrious teachers. The birds and other animals rarely appeared stressed and bogged down with the cares of this life. I know we’re complex creatures with commitments and complicated social dynamics, but I can appreciate the simplicity of their lives.

Over the past few months, I’d been feeling heavy. People I love have been personally affected by the unconstitutional DOGE cuts. Consistent and ever-present chaos affected my mood as this regime has disproportionately attacked my people. While Black people have never been a priority in America, what we’re seeing today is openly disgusting. I’ve always been a champion of protecting peace, yet I realized I hadn’t taken my own advice.

Prioritizing our mental health is a personal decision, one that is made each day. It must be an intentional decision. We should be aware of what’s happening around the nation and the world at large, but it shouldn’t be at the expense of our health. The effects of not protecting my peace manifested in interesting ways. Writing had become difficult. I’m in the process of writing my 4th novel, which comes with its own set of challenges. The pages of my story were collecting dust for a while: Slowing down and silencing the noise in life is an act of self-love. We must give ourselves a chance to be present without strings attached. Productivity can wait. Our spirit needs to be recharged often.

Rest is something I’ve been doing more of. Living in the moment has taught me the importance of giving myself grace. I don’t engage with things and people that do not bring me peace. This personal decision has reaped bountiful benefits in my life. I encourage you to do more of what makes your soul happy. Stay aware, but don’t let it consume you. Prioritize rest and silence when you can. Put energy into what brings you the most joy. Life, even with its complexities and challenges, is beautiful with the correct perspective. Perspective is truly everything. Always remember to make yourself a priority. May the next half of this year be the best yet.

Power to the People: An Essay

King cotton made many rich as they violently exploited and used our bodies to fuel the American economy. We built this nation. They’d rather burn books and indulge in revisionist history than make atonement. History speaks for itself and it tells a damning story. America’s cold shoulder and unwillingness to right its wrongs is not only disgustingly arrogant and cowardly, but sinful by their own accord. They conveniently use the bible and faux Christian values to commit psychological warfare and crimes against humanity. It’s one of the oldest tricks in the book.

Cowardly attacks on our institutions and establishments have ramped up as white supremacy seeks to devour everything and everyone it deems unworthy. Diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives have dried up across the nation. The Trump administration is pushing this merit narrative. There is no real merit system in this country. Our kakistocratic government is all the proof you need. Many in leadership haven’t earned a damn thing. The Signal group chat fiasco is a prime example of how gross incompetence in critical roles can have material consequences.

Is America great? If you ask white America at large, many will tout its greatness. I’ve encountered a few people who see nothing wrong with what’s happening in the country. The constitutional crisis many legal scholars have hinted at is here as the Trump administration defies the courts. I don’t know if it’s delusion or willful ignorance, either way it’s fucked up. There is certainly an undeniable crisis of character here in the United States. Many Americans are unhinged, uncultivated, vile, racist, and grossly entitled. When Trump, a felon, racist insurrectionist, was elected again, it told me everything I already knew. America doesn’t give a damn about real progression. Our allies have distanced themselves from us. Unnecessary trade wars and threats of imperialistic campaigns are just the tip of the iceberg. Black people have always been hip to the charade. America pretends to be a pillar of justice and strength while eating its own. Many are now in the find out stage.

My father texted me a few months ago to express his thoughts on the election. As a hopeless optimist, he passionately lectured me about the resolve of the American people despite the daunting terrain ahead. In his eyes, all things could be overcome, including another disastrous four years of Trump. While I can certainly appreciate where he was coming from, perhaps pessimism has clouded the lens through which I view the world. I’m still angry about November.

Those who hate Black people and other minority groups are unwilling to see the proverbial red dot on their heads through the political theatrics and smoke screens. The effects of bad politics have downstream consequences. In an oligarchy, everyone outside of the elite is targeted. Voting has consequences, and many are learning this the hard way as civil rights are beginning to be openly attacked and rolled back.

In closing, many of us understand the gravity of the times. Silence is not an option. We must protect our interests, institutions, and rights with our voices. Each one of us has the power to effect change, even if it doesn’t feel that way right now. Learn how laws and bills are passed. Knowledge is power. I know we’ve been fighting all our lives, and it’s exhausting. We can’t give up or give in because that’s what they want. Your peace of mind and health are of the utmost importance. Keep your head up, remain watchful, get involved peacefully, and vote.

We Shall Not Be Moved: An Essay

January felt like the longest month of my life. Although that’s hyperbole, it’s legitimately how I feel. The events of the last two weeks have been unprecedented. The open attack on democracy couldn’t be clearer. Our elected officials appear to stand by idly as the President manically dismantles, disrupts, and destroys the legislative, judicial, and executive branches of Government. With the recent unlawful firings of inspector generals, ladies and gentlemen his uncultivated revenge tour has officially commenced. We’re in dangerous territory make no mistake about it. In addition to his negligent incompetence, he’s used a tragedy to disparage diversity by blaming DEI for the tragic accident involving a United States Army Blackhawk and an American Eagle CRJ operating as flight 5342. The cabinet of the unqualified have made their unsystematic desire to conquer and divide known.

Black people, we know what it means to be resilient. We didn’t make it this far without our community, faith, and an unrelenting desire to rise above the ails of white supremacy. This monster is not unfamiliar to us. This sickness wishes to erode our psyche and pound us into submission, but as our ancestors once said, we shall not be moved. As the nation continues to openly ignore our achievements and the impact we’ve made on this nation, we must never forget ourselves. This coordinated attack only emphasizes our greatness. Let them attempt to cancel Black History Month, but let it be known, that every day is a celebration of Black excellence.

But how do we cope and maintain our mental health as the nation appears to be falling apart at the seams? How do we continue to relish in our strength when the weight of the world sits atop our shoulders? How do we continue to live amongst those who’ve made it abundantly clear we’re not worth a damn? These are the questions I’ve often asked myself.

We move forward in strength by choosing not to give in to their ignorance. Now more than ever we must protect our peace. This has been my theme for 2025. I know these burdens feel daunting. Some days we’re exhausted beyond measure but we must keep our heads up. Rest is of the utmost importance. Disconnecting from the negativity is a must. Choosing not to engage with rage baiters and the uneducated online is paramount. Above all revel in the love of self like a tree planted in fertile soil. Our soul needs love— our souls need each other. We are a beautiful people. May we never forget who we are.

Clear and Present Danger

I said I wasn’t going to do it. I told myself to leave politics alone; nothing good ever comes from it. But, got damnit I’m furious. I’m angry we’re here again after all that’s been said and done. How could millions of people willingly vote this type of maniac into the highest office of the land? It’s obvious White supremacy is in high demand. I’ve answered my rhetorical question. The truth shall certainly free us, but there are days when progression feels more like a fallacy.

Anxiety is on high alert around the nation as Trump attempts to disrupt lives with each stroke of his pen. He salivates over executive orders as if they were medium rare steaks; he’s a gluttonous fascist with an appetite to conquer and divide. While I refused to tune into the inauguration, I did choose to stay abreast of policy decisions and movements. Trump is a clear and present danger. With the recent rollback of the 1965 Equal Employment Opportunity Act, he’s hell-bent on fulfilling Project 2025, the same plan he claimed to have nothing to do with during the campaign.

From his unqualified cabinet picks to his strange obsessions with Billionaires, Musk, Bezos, and Zuckerberg have no place in government. We are swiftly moving toward an oligarchy—some would say we’re already living in one. I’m tired. If you’re reading this, I believe we share similar sentiments.

Where do we go from here? How do we protect our mental health as our rights continue to be violated? How do we remain encouraged when progress declines? We must guard our hearts and minds during these times. I refuse to let this clear and present danger rob me of my peace of mind. Each day I’ve decided to stay informed without feeding into negative drama. There will be many days of uncertainty, division, and gloating from those with reprobate minds. We mustn’t be moved by those desperate sycophants who’ve voted against their interests. We must stay armed with knowledge as we come face to face with coordinated disinformation campaigns.

Stay strong, watchful, and informed. We must continue to demand equality. Let your voice be heard by writing to your elected officials. Passivity is the enemy of progression. Vote every chance you get. We will not be denied if we remain unified. The days ahead will feel daunting and difficult, but may I remind you that we’ve made it through tough times before, and this time will be no different.

Shameless: An Essay

People. Damn. Why would they say that? Who knows? What were they thinking? They probably weren’t. No empathy, respect for others or self as far as I’m concerned. Evil deeds, violence, and a blatant disregard for civility appear standard. If there’s one thing you can count on, it’s people being people. They utter ugly words without fear of reproach; they speak before thinking and insult before seeking to understand.

As a Black man, I’m familiar with the uglier side of humanity as were my ancestors. With the evolution of social media, which in my opinion, has helped to assist in the perpetual decay of social standards, how do we create safe spaces? The system is architected to display controversial takes that stimulate traffic. The machine is always at work. Bots and rage baiters thrive in these environments as their posts become beacons to rally the pitchfork-armed mob. This mob leaves a trail of lifeless doxed bodies of those who once only wished to share their thoughts. This is why we need our own spaces as the spaces we’ve created on these platforms are often infiltrated. We’re no strangers to these matters as descendants of the survivors of the Middle Passage and Jim Crow segregation— we’re resilient.

Social media companies have abandoned their responsibilities. Government leaders have gleefully cosigned the decline of society as their pockets grow fatter off of the dissension. Where is their shame? It would be intellectually and culturally dishonest for me to declare these are new problems. They’re not. It’s the manifestation of these cultural and societal issues that’s changed. Conflict has always been a part of the human experience and I don’t see that changing. I’ve focused on learning how to navigate this landscape without losing myself.

We must prioritize our mental well-being. It’s paramount that we do this during these complicated and uncertain times. As conflict on all fronts seeks to dominate our lives, it’s important that we center ourselves and create an environment of harmony. We must create and enforce our boundaries. It’s okay to disconnect when overwhelmed. Avoid petty disagreements and perpetual communication with people who reveal they aren’t interested in civil discourse. The next few years will certainly test our resolve. The shameless amongst us have an operating charter they do not wish to alter. I encourage us all not to play their game.