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Two hundred days ago, I made a commitment to change the world—here’s how it’s unfolding.
In just 8 minutes and 46 seconds, my perspective on life shifted dramatically. My name is Kiara Morgan, and I am a biracial woman. As I witnessed the heartbreaking scene of George Floyd pleading for his mother, a gentle voice pulled me back to reality.
“Mama, what’s wrong?” my three-year-old son asked. “Mama, why are you crying?”
At that moment, I struggled to find the right words. I embraced him tightly, inhaling the familiar scent of his hair, and I lied. “Mama’s okay,” I reassured him. “Everything’s fine, sweetheart.”
However, as I held him close, I felt an overwhelming urge to share the truths I wish I could convey. I couldn’t explain to him that we inhabit a society where those meant to protect may harm you simply for being different. I couldn’t articulate the deep-rooted systems of injustice that have persisted for centuries, nor could I bear to reveal the harsh realities of the world without also instilling hope within him.
So, like the determined and fierce mother I am, I resolved to create that hope. I immersed myself in developing anti-racist, inclusive art materials aimed at children his age and older. I dedicated my days, evenings, and weekends to organizing marches and reading books about activism to kids in parks. I have appeared on international news channels, sharing my art at peace conferences worldwide.
I launched the Future Makers Program to provide caregivers, students, and educators across the nation with community-sponsored, inclusivity-focused artwork. Pieces like “D is for Diversity,” “A is for Ally,” and “In Our Class” now adorn classrooms throughout the United States, and I couldn’t be prouder of our progress.
I became the beacon of hope I yearned to see in the world, actively shaping the change I want for my children’s future. After nearly 200 days of rising each morning with the goal of making a difference, the most significant lesson I’ve learned is this: Everyone has a voice.
In the past, I often felt disconnected from the narrative surrounding Black liberation for various reasons. As a woman of color married to a white partner and raising children who are often perceived as white, I carry the privilege of lighter skin. I know that, generally, my family will return home safely, a luxury many of my Black peers do not have. In our society, skin like mine, resembling the richness of mocha or the warmth of cinnamon, can be a target.
My struggles and experiences may differ from those of others in the Black community, but that doesn’t diminish my value in this movement. It doesn’t silence my voice.
To all mothers: we need you.
To artists: we need you.
If you’re a chef, manager, grocery store clerk, actuary, or astronaut, we NEED you.
Each of us has unique gifts and meaningful purposes. Mine is art; yours may be something entirely different. That diversity is what enriches our world. Our lived experiences offer valuable lessons to uplift, inspire, and drive change.
The community I’ve been fortunate to connect with over the past 200 days has been a source of immense support. I could not have created such ripples of change without the backing of people from all backgrounds. Look at the progress we’ve made together.
To my white allies striving to navigate their roles in The Black Lives Matter and Human Rights movements, I urge you: Use your voice.
Speak up to educate our children. Amplify our messages. Challenge hate speech and redirect tough conversations toward progress. Support Black businesses, vote for Black representatives, and protect Black individuals in your community.
The path forward is one we must travel together. Let’s transform the world.
As featured on Good Morning America and other platforms, Kiara Morgan is a visionary illustrator whose artwork is impacting lives. Discover her unique creations at Emerald Creative and support the Future Makers Program to provide inclusive educational resources to teachers and caregivers across the U.S.