Lawd Have Merci on Langston Hughes and Viola Davis

I recognize that Black history is a constant journey of strength, resilience, and breaking down barriers.

As a little girl, I was enthralled with expressing myself creatively. I distinctly remember the emotion I felt, as I read the literary works of poet and social activist Langston Hughes. His poem entitled “Harlem” resonated with me because of the question he proposed. Little did I know, the question of what happens to a dream deferred would awaken a torch within myself.

In hindsight, the essence of this torch allowed me to understand the age-old adage of “the pen is indeed mightier than the sword.”  Fast forward many years later, I was taken aback by actress Viola Davis’s speech upon accepting her Oscar. During her speech, she referenced “There’s one place that all the people with the greatest potential are gathered — one place, and that’s the graveyard.” In return, given both Langston Hughes and Viola Davis affect upon myself, I am utilizing my creative expression and voice to make Black History in 2018.

I humbly accept the torch Langston Hughes passed, and became a poet, lyricist, author, inspirational speaker and activist. 

Merci Mckinley Gives the #MeToo Movement a Song

In 2018, I am going to utilize the talents bestowed upon myself to motivate others to live life with resilience, perseverance and self-esteem. I have already started by writing and releasing the Anthem Silent for Too Long which calls for an inclusive support of the #MeToo Movement, and not exclude the minorities.

In addition, while it is not solely to advance Black people, I have aligned myself with the political arena to advocate and influence change for the Veteran Community. Since 2017, I have been actively working on releasing products that promote building positive image and evoke change.

However, in 2018, I am going to push myself even further by writing and releasing singles that promote the importance of voting, and building self-esteem. My only quest is to leave a profound mark on the world and to propel others to keep going forward in spite of obstacles, and resistance.

For myself, that is what Black history is all about.