On this episode, I read from some selected passages of a series entitled:
Words for Black Boys... from a former one.
These assorted reflections on coming of age in Chicago during the 1980's and 1990's and how I contended with the darts of invective from a group of teachers who seemed determined to break my spirit.
Being told routinely, that I was a hoodlum in training... at best or a perspective juvenile delinquent or the time my teacher laughed at the prospect of me becoming a "newspaper writer" only strengthened my resolve to make her eat those words one day.
I tell this story, because I see the same weaponry of disaffection being used against Black Boys in 2023 and it is critical... that they know.
Your skin... ain't no sin.
This is nothing new under the sun.
History repeats, cycles can be broken.
There is power in numbers and they too can persevere.
The cheering section is alive and well... Black boy, I am you.
Grab a listen.