A Tribute for Mom (Rest in Peace)

With great sadness, I announce that my mother passed away on August 6, 2020.

I wasn't sure that I would post anything about it as I tend to be very private when it comes to family affairs. However, I felt it was essential to pay tribute, as my mother's influence on me was directly responsible for the creation of Black Sun Comics.

My mother was a voracious reader who made sure that books and a love of learning were staples in my life. Some of my earliest memories are of her taking me to the local library to sign out books upon books, upon books, upon books.

Me talking to my Mom while I’m dressed as a robot.

My mother was an animated storyteller. Her creativity inspired me greatly. I can still vividly remember the tales of her early life here in Canada and her struggles, fighting racism while standing firm.

My mother was also the one who got me my first science fiction book when I was just five years old. I don't think she realized that her gesture would spark a lifelong love affair with the genre. And I don't think she realized that it would morph into the Afrofuturist stories we publish today. But that's what great parents do. They plant seeds in their children and then nurture them to maturity.

She was a devoted and loyal wife to my Dad an attentive, nurturing mother to my brother and me. And she was the one who lit the creative spark in me, which I feel obligated to let shine and inspire others.

My mother with me as a newborn.

Mom, these past few weeks have been hard, but I'm taking things day by day because I miss you terribly. I will continue to be strong for you because, in life, you were strong for me.

You've put in a lifetime of work for which I am truly grateful. Rest well.

Love you lots.