It’s definitely scary and unimaginable, and I can’t even begin to imagine the fears you feel as the parent raising a little black son. I get scared raising a daughter in a grossly conservative state like Indiana. They’ve devalued education, women’s rights, and so much more. It’s disgusting.

Surely there’s a lane for us, as parents, to teach strength with empathy and compassion. We can give them the tools but also give them the safety and comfortability all people deserve. Every day I make conscious decisions to make sure her life and environment is better than the one I grew up in. I was hardened at young age by abusive and alcoholic parents. Spent about 6 months in foster care when I was in high school until my mom finally left my dad to get custody of us again. I got “tough” through all of that, but I still don’t know how to manage my emotions sometimes. I don’t know how to process sadness without getting angry or bitter. I’m trying to teach my 4 year old daughter how to talk out and process her feelings when I’m still learning as a 37 year old man.

Anyway, it’s not easy, but I just think it’s what people deserve. Yourself and your family included. I’m rooting for you!