Chapter 1: An Admiration for Dr. Mae Jemison

Dear Dr. Jemison,

I hope this message finds you well.

To start, I must confess that I hold a deep admiration for you. It's not the kind that seeks personal interaction, but rather a profound respect and appreciation for your remarkable achievements from a distance.

While you are a beacon of inspiration for today's youth, you inspired me during my formative years. I followed your journey closely from my college days, especially when you became the first African American woman to travel into space. Your accomplishments took my breath away.

Your beauty, charm, grace, and intelligence shone brightly as you confidently showcased them to the world. As a young Black man from Washington D.C., it was significant for me to see an African American woman like you, reflecting the strength and resilience of my own mother and grandmother, who were instrumental in shaping my values.

Your remarkable journey includes entering college at just 16, graduating from Stanford University with degrees in Chemical Engineering and African and African American Studies, undertaking international humanitarian work during your time at Cornell Medical School, completing a medical residency, and serving in the Peace Corps. Your dedication is nothing short of inspiring.

My admiration for you transcended your individual milestones as I learned more about your life story. I vividly recall a TED Talk you delivered in February 2002, where you passionately discussed the intersection of art and science. Your words resonated with me, as they echoed a belief I have long held.

In that talk, you articulated the importance of mastering and promoting both disciplines within our society. Your insights have stayed with me and contributed to my ongoing admiration for you.

At that time, I was a poet with two published books and also worked as a public interest lawyer. I often faced skepticism about my dual passions—law and literature—being incompatible. However, I chose to ignore the naysayers and remain true to myself.

Your TED Talk was crucial in affirming my path. You quoted the late Franz Fanon, stating: “Each generation must, out of relative obscurity, discover its mission, fulfill or betray it.” This quote still resonates deeply with me. I believe that every generation has the responsibility to make a meaningful impact in the world.

I now recognize that progress is a journey, and I take pride in the efforts of my generation. I often encourage younger generations to embrace their causes and resist the temptation to prioritize financial gain above all else.

Your reflections on your own journey were equally compelling. You shared how you had always envisioned yourself in space, while simultaneously nurturing your love for the arts. You spoke fondly of your childhood interests—designing doll clothes, taking art and ceramics classes, dancing, and following the Gemini and Apollo space missions.

In your space voyage in 1992, you took with you a poster of Judith Jamison from the Alvin Ailey Dance Company, a Bundu statue from Sierra Leone, and a certificate encouraging children in Chicago public schools to excel in science and math. This gesture speaks volumes.

Like you, I believe in the harmonious coexistence of science and art. Both realms celebrate human creativity, which sustains our world. You also highlighted the ongoing struggle to preserve arts programs, a battle that continues to this day. Many people in my circle appreciate both disciplines, and I wholeheartedly embrace that perspective.

As an artist myself, I recognize that art is what affirms our humanity. The celebration of art cultivates communities that passionately pursue beauty and love.

I look forward to your continued contributions to the world and remain grateful for the inspiration you provide. My admiration for you will persist as you achieve extraordinary feats.

Peace.

Dr. Mae Jemison’s TED Talk 2002

Chapter 2: Mae Jemison's Journey into Space

In this video, Dr. Mae Jemison discusses her life experiences and shares insights from her new book, highlighting her path as a trailblazer in science and art.

Another video features Dr. Jemison reflecting on her aspirations to venture into space, providing inspiration for future generations.

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The Left Jab #3

We Are One