A Letter to My Nieces: Freedom, Democracy, and the Journey Ahead

I write to you because I love you both deeply and believe in your potential. At 14 and 4, my words might not fully resonate now but they will as you grow and understand who you are. I have observed you closely and from afar, knowing the rich history and sacrifices that paved your way.

In 2026, as the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, it claims to celebrate freedom and democracy. Yet, when founded in 1776, many Black ancestors were enslaved, building the nation with their unpaid labor. Thomas Jefferson and other founders did not include everyone when they stated ‘all men are created equal.’ Poor Whites, Indigenous people, and Blacks were excluded, as were women and girls like you.

America’s journey has been turbulent, entangled in race and sexism from the start. This motivates me to write because, like your family and auntie—my wife—I have endured much. As a child and teenager, I believed following my mother’s teachings would suffice. But for Black Americans, reality proved more complex.

The legacy of slavery, lasting nearly 250 years, and its end through a brutal Civil War, complicates perceptions of freedom and democracy. Gaining voting rights took another century, thanks to the Civil Rights Movement led by figures like Ella Baker, Fannie Lou Hamer, and John Lewis. Their efforts not only transformed our future but also altered society. Our contributions in music, art, and innovation have shaped America today.

I grew up in poverty, with a single mother and absent father. Yet, her vision enabled me to achieve what seemed impossible. I pursued education and my dream of writing, traveling across America and the world. Previous generations, including my mother, believed in their right to freedom and democracy. Yet, today, we witness regressive policies reminiscent of segregation.

Remember you are Black girls who will become remarkable women. Black women and girls achieve extraordinary things. Racism and sexism exist but Black resilience prevails repeatedly. Love yourselves and each other fiercely because your lives depend on it. Know your history to navigate the future, realizing you are enough and capable of achieving your dreams.

Your birthright is to be free, vocal advocates for freedom and democracy, as predecessors were. Do not remain silent or give up. Critics may say I focus solely on race and you two, but I cherish all people and strive to live by love’s principle. You must do likewise, practicing love without self-undermining or martyrdom.

We exist in challenging times where ‘otherness’ faces discrimination and harm. Misinformation abounds, undermining research and lives. Ignore these detractors and listen to insightful voices like those of your family and me. Embrace love and hope despite your surroundings. Freedom and democracy should ensure everyone has opportunities without exclusion.

As women, know you are equal to men in every way. Never let anyone diminish your worth. A society that disrespects women disrespects life. My hope is for you to experience an America I may never witness but believe will exist because you are here. My journey wasn’t easy but I have faith because we continue despite challenges.

Your uncle,
Kevin Powell

Kevin Powell is a GRAMMY-nominated poet, humanitarian, filmmaker, public speaker, regular Newsweek contributor, and author of 17 books, including his latest poetry collection, A Poem for Evangeline, And Other Songs (Get Fresh Books Publishing). He resides in New York City and can be found on social media as poet Kevin Powell.

The opinions expressed here are the writer’s own.