Mourning the Death of another Black Man.

The year is 2020. And, we are in mourning. Another Black man has died. Another Black man gone too soon-taken suddenly from us without cause or concern. Another Black father, son, brother, husband, friend, leader, and hero is gone.

I remember when Black Panther was first released and the immense sense of joy and pride that so many of us felt after viewing this masterpiece on the screen. Wakanda was real and it was ours.

It was the first time we saw ourselves and imagined the possibilities of what it meant to be uncolonized, unchained; free from bondage and subjugation.

That Monday after the opening weekend of the film, I vividly remember how we all walked into our respective spaces a little taller, braver, prouder; our chests fully extended and out for the world to see! Black girls and boys everywhere finally saw themselves represented — seen as free, whole, beautiful beings full of life and promise!

Black Excellence on full display.

A real life super hero is gone and we are broken. An undeniable, literal king has taken his rightful place with the ancestors.

Strong. Powerful. Black.

Thank you for being the hero we never had growing up as kids but the one that we always knew we deserved.

Chadwick forever. Wakanda forever. Forever our King.

Ralinda Watts, a native of Los Angeles, is a diversity expert, consultant, educator and writer who works at the intersection of culture, identity, race, and justice, sparking thoughtful conversations on what matters most; authenticity! Her weekly podcast, #RalindaSpeaks, is available on Apple, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Connect with me on Instagram & Twitter @RalindaSpeaks