The melanin in your skin glows in the sun and has given you a lifetime of youthful radiance.

You’re instrumental in ushering in one of the biggest cultural, social, and artistic revolutions in the country’s history. "What happens to a dream deferred? Does it dry up Like a raisin in the sun?" – Langston Hughes

The Black Arts Movement was the artistic outgrowth of the Black Power Movement that was prominent in the 1960s and early 1970s. After Malcolm X’s assassination, proud Black Nationalists called for the creation of poetry, novels, visual arts, and theater to reflect pride in black history. “Art is a weapon in the struggle of ideas, the class struggle.” – Amiri Baraka

You're back in the 80's! MJ just released Thriller, you’ve applied plenty of Soul Glo to your Jerry Curls, and you’re cruising down the street in your ’64. "Let us dream of tomorrow where we can truly love from the soul, and know love as the ultimate truth at the heart of all creation." – Michael Jackson

You’ve made it to the pinnacle of good music. You’re basking in the Golden Age Hip-Hop and R&B. The only Christopher we acknowledge is Wallace and, like him, you’ve clearly got enough to feed the needy.

You have witnessed the election of our first Black President: Barack Obama! Prepare for 8 years of opulence, class, and brilliant leadership. "Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we've been waiting for. We are the change that we seek." – Barack Obama

You’ve embraced your rich history and reclaimed your place on the throne. Your grace and strength is matched only by your elegance and wisdom. You are the epitome of Black excellence. May your empire continue to prosper as you continue to inspire the future of our community.