I’m not sure I’ve ever shared this publicly, however, given the events of last week I feel compelled to share: My father came to this country from Nigeria to further his education in business. Along the way, he met my mother, a school teacher. Soon they married. Their professional passions eventually pulled them in different directions. My father back to Nigeria to pursue business and my mother remained stateside doing what she loved…teaching. Both, however, were enriched by their experience together. My mother, a lady from a small town of less than 2000, gained global exposure and a firsthand look at how women are treated in other countries (a large part of why she wouldn’t move to Nigeria). Her entire life she remained passionate about the rights of women and did all she could to advance the lives of young girls in her classrooms and church. The global exposure she gained was passed on to me, and as soon as I was able to travel, I did. These experiences continue to enrich my life.

My father applied the business lessons learned in the states to start a successful business in his community in Nigeria. I’m reasonably confident my mother influenced his thinking about equality for women in his country… one that still has a long way to go in its treatment of women. Just before he died in 2004, he shared with me how thankful he was for his time in America and was proud his only son was “American” and “making his way in the U.S.A.” While the marriage could not withstand an international long distance relationship in the age before FaceTime, the internet or even email. The union did produce their only child; me. I like to believe I’m the type of citizen my country can be proud of. I want to think I’ve contributed to the fabric of America in small ways through service to country, entrepreneurship and by being a model citizen when abroad. Part of me is the first-generation son of a Nigerian and part of me couldn’t be more American. If Ancestry dot com can be trusted, I can trace my maternal lineage to the late 1600’s in England. I’m also a small part Native American (Meherrin Nation), and of course, I’m the decedent of slaves (stolen/forced immigrants with no way home). Like immigrants today, my ancestors from England immigrated to America seeking a better life or freedom. The descendants of my English immigrant ancestors fought in the Revolutionary war establishing this country. Despite the brutal history, my Black ancestors have gone to war to defend this country. And when this son of “immigrant” enlisted in the U.S. Army it was alongside first generation soldiers, I’m sure. Immigrants are a strong part of what makes America an already great country. What I know for sure is; America and the world is a better place because we are an open and free country. We should welcome ALL to our shores.

Sincerely,

Part first generation American and part quintessential American