To the Men of NCCU,
We understand your pain and we know you get weary from all the injustice.
Our communication has been interrupted by the sounds of gunshots, imprisonment, poverty, and desperate prayers. You have so much to fight against and you don’t have much time for healing. You have to convince this world- and sometimes yourselves- that you deserve basic human and civil rights.
We are sorry that the world tries to make you believe you’re inferior, because you’re not. We are sorry they’ve convinced you you’re worthless and your life doesn’t matter, because you are worth more than this world … and you mean everything to us.
America has defined you not by how you share love with your family and friends, not by your smile and laughter, and certainly not by your aspirations and dedication to earning a college degree. No, America defines you by your choice to speak in Ebonics and listen to hip hop music. America defines you by your skin color.
You are feared in many places of this country because you are strong and nonconforming. Always stay unapologetically black.
Your image may entice others to see you as a threat, but here, we accept you with open arms. We appreciate you. We love you. And we will strive to protect you by any means necessary.
Your enrollment at this university is an act of rebellion in itself. Your desire to take more from this world than it has ever offered you is admirable. Stay focused and never give up. Never let the world see you lower your head in defeat. And whenever you need the extra encouragement, we are here to support you in all of your endeavors.
Always stay strong in the face of adversity.
XOXO,
The Women of NCCU