Nationwide — Shannon Wright, a 12-year-old African American girl, moved audiences after performing her poem “I Don’t Have a Dad” at the Little Miss African American Scholarship Pageant. The piece highlights her reality and a heartfelt message about family and love.
She opened with the striking line, “I don’t have a dad.” From there, she spoke about the many people who give her strength and support — her mom, aunties, grandfathers, godparents, coaches, and neighbors. Each, she said, plays a role in holding her up.
The emotional performance was recorded and posted on Instagram by her mother, Ashley Tiyumba Wright. The video has since gone viral, gaining more than 10,000 likes and drawing praise for Shannon’s honesty and courage.
According to Because of Them We Can, Ashley revealed that the poem grew out of a real conversation from years ago. When Shannon was asked if she wanted a father, she replied, “Nah, I like it with just you, me, and Satori. It’s enough.”
Now close to her teenage years, Shannon continues to shine under the care of her mother and the community that surrounds her. Her poem serves as a reminder that families come in many forms, and that love and support define what makes them whole.
Source: BlackNews.com
