Dear Professor,

I have no idea who you are; however, professors, teachers, and administration, similar to you have tormented me my whole life. HENCE, the need for an open letter such as this one. I would like to start by asking if you think that your ancestors that TRAVELED to this beautiful land as well spoke perfect English? Do your parents, or guardians have perfect vernacular? Or is there something about white skin that makes your voice fall silent and everything becomes a green light of approval?

If Tiffany's last name wasn't Martinez would she have been accused (not asked, God Forbid asking a Brown or Black person something before accusal) of plagiarism? Or does her brown skin speak louder than her beautiful brain. And, I shall go further on to point out so damn what if "Hence" was not her word, last time I checked there is no ownership on the English language. Plagiarism, is not defined by taking one word if that was the case, then literally every person on this planet has plagiarized.

I would like to know professor why did you get into the profession that you are currently in? It has been said to me arguably since middle school to search for a job that you are passionate about. Search for a job that you can touch as many people as possible and shine a light so bright no one would question why you chose this job, so my question to you is did you become a professor to humiliate and diminish your students? When you were becoming accredited to teach in fine establishments did you assume you would be broadcasting to a white audience?

Professor, it is because of teachers like you that Brown and Black people have a common understanding of dread when it comes to academia. I dread writing papers because most of the time I feel defeated before I have tackled the assignment. I feel shame asking professors for help because I feel it is assumed that I cannot complete this on my own. I, however, have learned despite professors like you I will succeed.

Now my final words, to my dearest beautiful Tiffany. Stop expecting academia to love you back. Time and time again, from our ancestors to our present brothers and sisters there has been shape shifting and code shifting, trying to fit into this apple pie America that for so long has rejected us over and over again. That is not to say that you do not belong in academia, because you do! However, love yourself so much that there is no room for academia to love you. Through that love for yourself, you will see, even without the love and admiration from academia you deserve that you fit right in.

Love,

A Black Girl that has been told she doesn't fit into academia too many times