Far too often we are misinformed, miseducated and downright lied to about what we mean to this world, our respective nations and to each other. Our contributions are downplayed while our shortcomings are exaggerated. Our history is distorted while our future is constantly being jeopardized or outright taken away. That being said, we are powerful beyond measure, sometimes we just need a little reminder.

1. You represent yourself, not every other black person on Earth.

2. You are more than a target, victim or hashtag.

3. Your dark skin, bold features and thick, curly hair is beautiful.

4. You are allowed to feel rage, sadness, pain and the full range of emotions unabashedly. This is not a sign of wavering or weakness. It is a sign of humanity.

5. You are not inherently a threat, a risk or a danger to anyone because of the way you dress.

6. You aren’t resisting arrest simply because you don’t fold, twist or fracture the way law enforcement officials want you to.

7. You are more than a mugshot to be demonized and criminalized by mainstream media and hate groups.

8. You are the pinnacle of patience, compassion, understanding, tolerance, resilience and sacrifice.

9. A hoodie, a wallet, a toy gun, a CD or a cigarette are not reasons for your execution.

10. You are sacred.

11. You are more than a professional athlete, musician or entertainer.

12. You are not a “nigger, nigga, negro” or any other derogatory term, no matter how hateful or endearing the intent.

13. You are a hero.

14. You are the foundation and the backbone of many a nation.

15. You are a pioneer.

16. Your history does not begin with slavery.

17. You are loved, deeply and fiercely.

18. Your children are just as smart, qualified and worthy of love as anyone else’s.

19. Your past and the sum of your failures do not equate to your future.

20. Your life matters. You are valuable and your potential is enormous.

21. Your culture deserves to be protected. It also needs to be acknowledged by those who benefit from it. You deserve that credit.

22. Your religion, sexual orientation and socioeconomic status do not make you less of a person.

23. You are on the short end of a longstanding structural problem ignored by far too many, but you will persevere.

24. You are an amazing mother, father, son, daughter, sibling, family member, lover and friend.

25. Your emotional, mental and spiritual well-being are important.

26. You are not an object or sexual commodity.

27. You do not have too much attitude. You are not too cocky. You are not arrogant. Your heart, bravery and confidence are golden.

28. Every one of your accomplishments is worthy of a celebration, no matter how big or how small

29. Your brothers and sisters always have your back.

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Kyle Bernard

Writing since July 2016 · 1 story contributed