A Letter to My Beloved Nieces

My dear nieces, I write to you out of love and belief in your limitless potential. Though you are just 14 and 4, with time, you will come to understand these words. I have watched you both closely and with care, knowing the legacy and sacrifices that give you strength.

This year, 2026, marks America’s 250th anniversary. The nation claims to celebrate freedom and democracy. At its founding in 1776, however, many of our ancestors were enslaved, laboring to build this country. Despite claims of equality, figures like Thomas Jefferson did not extend this notion to impoverished Whites, Indigenous peoples, or Blacks, free or not. Certainly, it was not meant for women or girls.

The American experiment has been fraught with issues of race and sexism from its inception. I am writing because I, like your family and my wife, have endured much. As a child and youth, I misunderstood the world I was entering. I believed that following my mother’s teachings—faith, education, hard work—would ensure success. This notion did not apply for Black individuals in America, neither then nor now.

Understanding freedom and democracy is difficult given our history of slavery lasting nearly 250 years, ended only by a brutal Civil War. It took another century before my family gained voting rights and a semblance of citizenship. The Civil Rights Movement, led by figures like Ella Baker, Fannie Lou Hamer, Bayard Rustin, and John Lewis, transformed our future and that of the nation. Without the contributions of Black people in music, art, food, and innovation, the America we know would not exist.

I come from poverty, a single mother, and absent father, surrounded by despair. Yet through my mother’s vision, I defied odds, achieved education, and became a writer. I have traveled across America and globally, due to the dreams of those before me.

On this anniversary, we witness doors closing that were once open. Hatred and violence echo the past segregation my mother experienced. Though the future is uncertain, we stand resilient, strengthened by our past.

You must remember that being Black and female holds unique power. Racism and sexism are deeply rooted, yet change arises from Black women’s determination. Love yourself and each other fiercely. History should guide you, allowing you to know your worth, your origins, and your potential.

Your duty is to advocate for freedom and democracy, as I do, as those before us have done. This is your right and obligation. Some may say my view is narrow, but it is rooted in universal love and respect for all. Yet love should not mean neglecting your own value.

We live in a dark time, where discrimination is overt and damaging. Do not heed those who deny the truth. Listen to those who believe in love and hope, regardless of challenges. True freedom and democracy ensure opportunity for all.

Understand that women are equal in every respect. No person or nation can claim to honor life without respecting women. My hope is that you will witness an America of equality and respect, one that I may not see.

Your path will not be easy, but I hold faith because we have persevered. I am proud of you, my dear nieces.

Sincerely,
Kevin Powell

Kevin Powell is a poet, humanitarian, and author. He resides in New York City and is active on social media as ‘poet kevin powell.’