The poem “I Hope” was written by digital content creator Jasmine Mahoro. She created this piece in response to recent events regarding police brutality and the Black Lives Matter Movement. This poem is a message of encouragement and validation to black people, reminding them that they do have a support system in spite of the racism they face in today’s society.

When interviewed by the Trauma and Mental Health Report, Jasmine discussed her work: “I wrote this poem as a love letter to the Black community to remind them that their joy and wellness is part of the resistance. As well as, to serve as a reminder that what they are feeling is valid and during a time where everything may feel heightened, that it is okay to take time to focus on their inner peace. Above all, I wrote it to encourage but also to protect my fellow brothers and sisters letting them know we are all in this together, they are not alone.”

“i hope you know it’s okay

i hope you know it’s okay to feel discouraged

i hope you know its okay to feel exhausted

i hope you know it’s okay to feel burnt out

i hope you know i see you

i hope you know i hear you

i hope you know i stand with you

i hope you know i’ll fight with you

i hope you know i’m in this with you

i hope you know you are valued

i hope you know you are needed

i hope you know you are loved

i hope you know you are important

i hope you know even if they’ll never have your back

i hope you know i will”

Image Credit:
Feature Image: Kopper, on Flickr, Public Domain