I have an uncomfortable confession. My beautiful, resilient culture, I've been sleeping on you, and for that, I'm truly sorry. It might be hard to believe because of the business I'm in, but like a lazy lover, I'd started to take your value for granted, losing sight of the beauty you are, the joy you bring, and how your spirit soothes my soul. But baby, I'm back and here to make it right.

These past few months, I have had the chance to immerse myself in spaces that served only to celebrate your divine shine. First, the Adcraft Detroit Thrive Activate & Elevate DEIB Conference, then a talk from Michigan's poet laureate Nandi Comer, followed by Hero Collective's Blackweek, which was an ode to you like no other. These experiences reminded me of your power, grace, and undeniable impact on the world. It's like I'm falling in love all over again, rediscovering the rhythm of your heartbeat that's been the soundtrack to my life. Our impact on society is monumental; remember when Chuck D said, "move as a team, never move alone"? That's us, baby. Since day one, we've been moving as a team, influencing everything from music and fashion to language and politics. Our ancestors brought their rhythms, their stories, and their spirit to these shores, planting seeds that have grown into

the vibrant tree of Black culture we see today. From the soulful sounds of jazz to the raw energy of hip-hop, our music has been the soundtrack to revolutions, both cultural and political. We represent ourselves in positions of power and influence, from the streets to the boardrooms, from the stage to the screen.

I've committed my career to telling our stories in our voices and on our terms, and that commitment remains true. Like Kendrick Lamar said, "If these walls could talk, they'd tell you to swim good." Well, I'm diving deep into you, my love, bringing anybody who'll listen along for the ride and making sure they respect the waters they're swimming in.

So, to my culture, one of my first loves, I promise never to take you for granted again. Paraphrasing Tupac, "I'm not saying I'm gonna change the world, but I guarantee that I will spark the brains that will."

Because that's what we do at Pitch Black – for you, always and forever.