My dear nieces,

I pen this letter because of my deep love for you and my belief in the boundless opportunities awaiting you. At 14 and 4, you may not fully grasp my words, but as you mature and discover your true potential, you will understand. I have watched you both, near and far, and I am aware of the legacy and sacrifices that have paved your way.

Our country, America, celebrates its 250th anniversary this year, claiming to honor freedom and democracy. Yet, when it was founded in 1776, many of our ancestors, Black people, were enslaved, contributing their labor to build this young nation. When Thomas Jefferson and others declared “all men are created equal,” they excluded numerous groups, including poor Whites, Indigenous peoples, and Blacks, whether free or enslaved. Women and girls were entirely overlooked.

America’s journey has been tumultuous, rooted in racism and sexism from its inception. I write to you because, like your parents, grandparents, and my wife—your aunt—I have faced many challenges. As a child, I believed if I followed my mother’s teachings—faith, education, hard work—everything would be fine. Yet, for Black Americans, it’s never been straightforward.

Freedom and democracy are hard to see when your ancestors endured bondage for almost 250 years. Only a brutal Civil War ended their suffering. Even then, it took another century before people like my mother and grandparents accessed voting rights and citizenship. The Civil Rights Movement, fueled by figures such as Ella Baker, Fannie Lou Hamer, Bayard Rustin, and John Lewis, played a vital role in change. Their efforts benefited not only African Americans but all of society.

My own life began in severe poverty, with a single mother and absent father. Despite this, my mother’s vision enabled me to pursue education and achieve my dream of becoming a writer. I have visited all 50 states and five continents, a testament to the power of dreaming and the belief in freedom and democracy.

I write this during America’s 250th year because familiar doors are closing again. Hatred, violence, and exclusion echo the segregation my mother faced. We find ourselves at a fearful and dangerous juncture, but you must remember we have endured before.

As Black girls who will become Black women, you possess unique power. Racism and sexism are undeniable, but Black women and girls repeatedly overcome obstacles. Cherish yourselves and each other, for your lives depend on it.

You must use history as a guide to navigate your life. Know your roots and never doubt your worth. Your birthright and duty are to advocate for freedom and democracy, as past generations have done.

Some might accuse me of focusing solely on the two of you or fixating on race. In truth, I love all people and strive to live by the principle of love. I urge you to do the same, but not at the expense of yourselves.

We live in a time where difference is penalized and facts are dismissed. Ignore those who spread hate. Instead, listen to your family, those who believe in love’s possibilities. Understand true freedom and democracy leave no one behind.

For you, becoming women means recognizing your equality. No one has the right to diminish you. Societies that fail to honor women do not honor life itself.

This letter carries my prayer and hope. May you experience an America I may never see yet believe can exist because you exist.

With faith and love,

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.” Follow him on social media by searching for poet Kevin Powell.