Dear Cameron,

Last week, as I listened to your mother's speech about your father, my heart swelled with anger. Anger that Alton Sterling, a hardworking, sacrificing man, was robbed of his life. Anger that a congenial, simple CD seller, is gone. Anger, because his family and friends do not deserve to suffer from his loss. Most of all, anger that you, his innocent 15-year-old son, has to live the rest of his life with his father's loss encompassing him, constantly.

Cameron, I am 15 too, and as you cried, every ounce of pain was tangible. While you cried, I cried too, for a myriad of reasons. You did not anticipate that the recent Father's Day would be the last Father's Day with your dad. You will have to deal with classmates arguing over the politics of your father's death. You will have to endure the high costs of education in this country, with only one source of income in your family. Growing up as a teenage boy without a father figure seems impossible, no one to guide you, to love you when no one else will. The idea that the video of your father's death will surround and suffocate you for the rest of your life.

Social media hashtags and news broadcasts regarding your father will not help you grieve, and money will never heal you. However, Cameron, it is vital for you to understand that the American people have fallen in love with you, and are mourning Alton Sterling's death alongside you. Your father's death has sparked a love amongst Americans, and a will to continue the fight for justice and freedom among all races. Your bravery and courage through this fight, are what make you a role model for young Americans like myself.

Finish your education, achieve your dreams, believe in yourself, and continue to make your father proud. Always remember to stay strong.