As a Black woman, I know that the struggle is real. But so is the joy.

Today I’m celebrating my 50th year of life (let’s be honest, I plan to celebrate for the whole month). My mother, may she rest in peace and power, used to say that every birthday is a victory. So for me, I’m calling today a Victory Day.

Black folks deserve to grow old and age with dignity. Aging is truly a blessing — for everyone — but especially as a Black woman.

As Black women, so often what is lifted up are our struggles. The inequities we face. The disparities we must overcome. So I just want to say this: The struggle is real. But so, too, is the joy. Unapologetic joy is one of the greatest acts of resistance. And in my 50th year of life and my fifth year in Congress, I intend to carry that joy with me.

Even as we take on the tough fights for equity and justice, we must not lose our joy. We must center our humanity and lead with compassion. We must be thoughtful and accountable, always keeping those closest to the pain closest to the power. And we must be intentional about expressing our unapologetic joy.

You know, the very first poem that I memorized was “Harlem” by Langston Hughes. The poem asks, “What happens to a dream deferred?” I’m so inordinately blessed that I don’t have to wonder. My dreams have not been deferred, and that’s thanks to my wonderful parents, my family, my staff, and the people of the Massachusetts 7th for supporting me on this journey.

I resolve to keep fighting so that no dream is deferred for anyone in this country, and that our right to age with dignity is fully realized. That’s the work we have ahead of us.

I’m thankful for my parents today. I’m thankful for my husband, my daughter, and my whole family. I’m thankful for the Massachusetts 7th district. And I’m thankful for you, for being part of the A-Team, and for being a partner in this work.

Yours in service,

Ayanna

In honor of my special day today, will you please chip in $5, $50, or any amount you can to support our movement? DONATE