A Letter To Our Sons

From Black mothers all over the world

Toya Qualls-Barnette
Inspired Writer
2 min readAug 26, 2020

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Dear Sons,

Please remain thoughtful in all your endeavors, our collective hearts bleed whenever you are in pain. Your lives are most precious to Black mothers all over the world. We breathe to love and protect you from a society that devalues your heritage — rich bloodlines from the magnificent continent of Africa to the violent shores of the United States of America that erupted into an enormous superpower by riding the backs of your forefathers.

The prolific seedlings of hate laced with vile nutrients of greed and planted in the fertile minds of this nation’s early imperialistic leaders, fed generations with your ancestor’s blood, sweat and tears. Over four centuries, the gnarled roots spread rampantly while strangling your livelihood through institutionalized lawlessness.

Realize that your strength, unique talents, and extraordinary beauty will always be a threat to a global consciousness of ignorance that denounces your humanity while ignoring Mother Africa as the original womb of which humanity was born.

During your lifetime, you will encounter the wretched faces of racism, classicism, and entitlement. Prepare yourself for battle through education. Know God and thyself first. Cultivate a life with your passion and god-given gifts.

Shun the beast when he tests your will and make no mistake — it will test you. Promote healing by elevating other’s perception of who you are with dignity. Call forth your innate goodness and intellect to shine through degradation. Immerse yourselves in the study of the written word as to articulate your undeniable truths through words chosen wisely.

Always agree to disagree as gentlemen and for the sake of all mankind — know your rights as citizens of this country as this is the highest honor you can bestow upon your ancestors who died for your freedom. Last, since it is impossible for you to transform your identity as Black men, stand tall and proud because we love you.

Love always,
Black mothers

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Toya Qualls-Barnette
Inspired Writer

*14x Boosted writer | Writing about the impact of relationships |Contributor to Chicken Soup for the Soul| Dreamer | Mother| HSP in drag