Advice for Michelle Obama in Book of Poetry and Letters, Titled "Go, Tell Michelle"

Go, Tell Michelle: African American Women Write to the New First Lady.

This is a new book of advice for the first lady as she is about to live in the White House for a some years now. She is the first Black first lady this nation has ever known. So these women have decided to compile letters and poems into a book by this title, "Go, Tell Michelle: African American Women Write to the New First Lady."

This book contains the hopes, dreams, and inspiration Michelle Obama has inspired in Black women throughout the diaspora. Primarily expressed in letters and poems -- two sister scholars at Buffalo State University asked, via email, African women from around the world to "sound-off" on the newly elected president and his wife, thousands of letters poured in. Selecting from the sea of correspondence is cogent, heart-felt treasure of words, wishes and prayers for Michelle, her daughters and unborn and unrecognized generations of Black women.

“You are me. When I look at you, I see me. I see the young African American woman who, through good family values, strong roots, hard work, and perseverance, has come into her own … Though your journey may not be easy in the coming days, weeks, months, or years, think of us to ease your burden and pain. Think of those who you inspire. Think of those who you have given hope to. Think of those whom you have filled with pride. Think of your sister … Think of your favorite cousin. Think of your mother. Think of me. We are the same.”

“To you Michelle I take off my African woman hat from Cameroon, my motherland. You have given us African women the courage and the hope to move on and up. You keep your head high and hold your husband close to your heart. Keep praying my sister, you are the best. You have lived the dream of every ebony woman. Ride on sister, we are with you.”

“You are the song, you are the proverb, and you are the symbol of human dignity.”

“When you and your family go to the spot under the shadow of the Lincoln Memorial, where Barack Obama will be sworn in as the 44th President of the United States, you will take with you our history of dreams deferred; however, you will also take with you our prayers and hopes for an America that is ready to build and dream anew.”


“You are me. When I look at you, I see me. I see the young African American woman who, through good family values, strong roots, hard work, and perseverance, has come into her own … Though your journey may not be easy in the coming days, weeks, months, or years, think of us to ease your burden and pain. Think of those who you inspire. Think of those who you have given hope to. Think of those whom you have filled with pride. Think of your sister … Think of your favorite cousin. Think of your mother. Think of me. We are the same.”