Title: Dear Nia
This spoken word poem was written when I was 17 years old and performed at a talent showcase during my year at Cotillion. I distinctly remember writing it in the wake of Kobe Bryant’s passing. That night, I stayed up late reflecting on my own legacy—contemplating the impact I wished to have and the person I aspired to become.
Dear Nia,
What Will Your Legacy Be?
What do you want to be remembered for?
What will you grow up to be?
Your name is Purpose, and you’re here for a reason.
You’ve been blessed with incredible parents who help guide you through life in every season.
You’re a daughter of the one true King; girl, don’t ever settle for less. You are fearfully and wonderfully made, a Proverbs 31 woman at best.
Set the example and be true to who you are. Don’t ever let anyone diminish how bright you shine, like a star.
Be kind to those you see, and don’t be afraid to embrace new cultures. God created this world for everybody.
You’ve been going to predominantly white schools your whole life. Questions swarming in your mind every single day: What do they think about my hair or the clothes that I wear? Do they know I have a father who is present in my life?
Why do they think every Black person they see is related?
Nia, are you even supposed to be in here? In this room with all these important “white people” who are deemed more prestigious because of the lack of pigment in their skin? Are you here for a reason?
Do your opinions really matter?
Nia, are you even supposed to be here?
Nia, don’t ever let anyone decide where you belong or what you can contribute to the conversation. Your voice matters, no matter what. You are here for a reason. Don’t be intimidated—you are here for a reason. Don’t be scared—you are here for a reason. Don’t conform to this world—you are here for a reason. These opportunities I have given you, they’re there for a reason. Strong Black females who have been put in your life, they’re there for a reason: to encourage, uplift, walk alongside, and help you embrace your Blackness and be exactly who God truly wants you to be.
Thank you, Delta, for giving me this opportunity to be unapologetically me.
Nia D Media 
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