A Letter to My Nieces: Embracing Heritage and Hope

Dear nieces, this letter is a testament to my love for you and my belief in the immense potential of your lives. At ages 14 and 4, you may not yet grasp the full depth of my words, but as you grow, you’ll understand your unique brilliance. I’ve watched you closely and from afar, knowing the legacy of wisdom, sacrifice, and resilience that has paved your path.

As America commemorates its 250th anniversary in 2026, the celebration of freedom and democracy is bittersweet. In 1776, many of our ancestors were enslaved, laying the very foundations of this nation without the benefits of liberty. Despite noble proclamations of equality from figures like Thomas Jefferson, the reality was different for the marginalized: the poor, the Indigenous, Blacks, and surely not for women and girls like you.

The American experiment has been fraught with inequality from its inception, marked by racial and gender disparities. This letter is a testament to enduring perseverance.

Your parents, grandparents, my wife, and I have endured much. As a child, I misunderstood the world thrust upon me. I believed in the virtues my mother taught: faith, education, hard work. Yet, as a Black person in America, these were no guarantees.

Understanding our freedom and democracy is challenging when our history is steeped in bondage and struggle. The Civil War and Civil Rights Movement were pivotal, led by figures like Ella Baker and John Lewis, who reshaped our destiny and society. Our culture—music, art, food, innovation—has significantly contributed to modern America. You inherit this proud legacy.

Born into poverty, with a single mother and absent father, I defied the odds to pursue education and my dream of writing. I’ve traveled the U.S. and abroad, driven by the dreams of those before me. Now, we face a reversal of progress, witnessing societal regression reminiscent of past segregation.

Remember, being Black girls who will become women is vital. Black women and girls are unparalleled leaders, making change repeatedly despite racism and sexism. Cherish self-love and history, guiding you to overcome any adversity, ensuring you know your worth and capabilities.

You’re obligated to champion freedom and democracy, voicing justice like those who preceded us. Although some accuse me of narrow focus, my genuine love for all people drives my actions. Love demands resilience, not martyrdom. We face an age of exclusion, where truths are dismissed, and lives devalued.

Reject those who spew hate. Surround yourselves with believers in love and possibility, like your family and me. Though America celebrates prematurely, true freedom and democracy mean no one is forgotten. Compassion must guide your actions, ensuring equality for all, honoring women as equals. An America where respect for all thrives is achievable because of you. This journey isn’t easy, as my life attests, yet I hold faith in our enduring presence.

Your uncle,
Kevin Powell

Kevin Powell is a GRAMMY-nominated poet, humanitarian, filmmaker, public speaker, and author of 17 books, including A Poem for Evangeline, And Other Songs. He resides in New York City. Look for poet Kevin Powell on social media.

The views expressed are the writer’s own.