I’m Tired because the word “tired” and “black man” is already sending mixed message to “some people” without them taking the time to read this entire letter… first!

I’m Tired because I had to write this.

Tired of the weight of being micromanaged and living under the expectation of being EXCEPTIONAL.

Tired of key positions given to white counterparts who were C students with type C personalities, while my type A personality as an A+ student only got me to an unopened door with a “Work Harder” sign on the knob. Tired of the imbalanced grace giving to my white counterparts who have the freedom to make mistakes and can climb corporate ladders while being far less exceptional, and at times, unprofessional.

I told you, I’m Tired…

Tired of taking up the task of proving “I’m not like those other black men” within the workplace because the media shows more images of black men as thugs, drug dealers, angry, lazy, uneducated, and irresponsible.

I’m extremely Tired…

Tired of leaving my true identity and masculinity at the door, because I’ll come off as too “Aggressive” or “Intimidating” when I express my opinions.

Tired of changing my voice to a higher pitch in order to calm your cowardly and overly sensitive emotions

Tired of seeing my white male counterparts sport full bears, flat tops (with the part on the side), and it considered sexy within the work place. Tired of thinking twice before I grow my hair or grow a beard because I might be labeled as too edgy or thuggish for the establishment.

Tired of witnessing my sister’s fear of getting rid of the hair relaxer and embrace a more natural hairstyle.

Tired that its emotionally easier for you to fire me or let me go because you’re only empathetic towards, young white men who remind you of your son and the challenges you faced climbing the ladder.

Tired of forfeiting my independence for the sake of making sure my wife and children have a roof over their heads and food on the table.

Tired of biting my tongue and not fully defending myself verbally when a less than complimentary comment is thrown my direction

Tired of leaving my true identity, my swagger, my personality, my dialect, and who I am at the threshold of opportunity because I feel you want me to be MORE LIKE YOU…

I’m Tired I’m tired of pretending Tired of wearing the mask Tired of suppressing my Royal past I’m Tired I’m Tired I hope this doesn’t get me fired