Message from a Wakandan Prince Marcus Fraser

I was at a loss for words.

Before we traveled back to New York, my dad insisted that we visit a nearby plantation. As I walked across the Carolina cotton field, I pictured myself in my ancestors' shoes. Imagining the verbal, physical and mental humiliation that field slaves suffered was unbearable. How were people able to justify these degrading actions? I wondered. Since my race has been exploited and oppressed for hundreds of years, I knew it was important for me to reflect black excellence.

My parents value African American culture and taught me to as well. Because they emphasized the awareness of my identity, they ensured that I was involved with Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Jack and Jill is an organization that focuses on strengthening African American youth through leadership development, volunteer service, and civic duty. For the past 12 years, activities at Jack and Jill have impacted me tremendously. It raised my confidence and gave me a desire to seek leadership roles. So often, successful African Americans are portrayed as famous athletes or rappers. But that’s not all of us. This leadership program introduced me to an abundance of black role models: doctors, teachers, lawyers, entrepreneurs, and more! I joined the...