“Having the creative freedom to understand and express one’s true identity and sense of self is an immense privilege. One that should be accompanied by love, support, and care within an environment that prioritizes safety. With that in mind, a journey of decolonial parenting began when Io (EYE-oh) made their way earthside. My goal is for Io to have the freedom to become who they are and live their truth without

being as negatively impacted by intersecting systems of oppression as I was in my own childhood. Encountering the systems is unavoidable, though, so my primary duty as a parent is to help Io develop the skills necessary to combat those forces while navigating the world with a strong sense of self. Whomever that self may be. Most importantly, love and care guide this journey. All in hopes of raising a Black child whose growth is marked more by joy and freedom than anything else.” - Jesi Taylor Cruz, Brooklyn 2019 with child Io

Represented by Wespeak NY
Makeup by Emma Elizabeth

Essay style portrait inspired by Dominique Wynne