As we collectively embark on this journey of empowerment and change, I extend my warmest greetings and deepest gratitude for your interest in our mission. It is both an honor and a privilege to share a glimpse of my journey with you. As an accomplished organizer, nonprofit and business executive, instructional designer, and IDEA trainer/facilitator, I am driven by a steadfast commitment to advancing equity and justice in our society. In my roles as Principal Consultant of Krystal Klir Communications and Founding Director of Advocacy, Equity, and Community Empowerment at Focus: HOPE, I have had the privilege of leading transformative initiatives and attracting over $10 million in funding to support youth, economic mobility, and advocacy programs. Additionally, as an IDEA/DEI leader, I have trained thousands of executives and contributors across the globe and spearheaded research projects aimed at improving outcomes for Black youth. Through my diverse experiences and collaborations with esteemed organizations and communities, I remain dedicated to fostering positive change and empowering future generations. Outside of my professional endeavors, I find solace in reading, writing, and enjoying nature with my beloved family - my wife Krystal and our three beautiful daughters, Karis, Kady, and Klir. Together, we are deeply rooted in our Detroit neighborhood, actively engaging in community-building and advocacy efforts. As we move forward together, I invite you to join us in our pursuit of a more just and equitable world.

With gratitude and solidarity,

Jasahn

Black Marriage Movement, a Detroit-based initiative dedicated to advancing racial, economic, and social justice, recognizes the pivotal role of strong economic futures in shaping the destinies of future generations. Despite Black Americans leading in various societal realms, including civic service, enterprise, education, and philanthropy, the absence of investments in our children hampers the community's ability to fully benefit from these gains. While reparations from government, corporations, and foundations are crucial, significant investment from within the community in the form of love, marriage, family, and generational wealth planning is imperative. Current trends reveal stark realities: over 81% of Black women aged 15 to 59 are unmarried during their first childbirth, with 42% giving birth before age 20, and less than 1 in 5 Black women ever being married. This, coupled with racial and political factors, leaves single Black parenthood without adequate safety nets, exacerbating financial strains and social injustices. Moreover, the decline of loving, supportive marriages presents a pressing public health crisis, leading to disparities in education, economic opportunity, and exposure to trauma for children in single-parent households. Hence, the call to encourage Black youth to pursue love, commitment, and marriage early arises, challenging prevailing notions of independence and individualism. Marriage is posited as a pathway to economic security, community healing, and intergenerational wealth accumulation. However, realizing this vision necessitates the collective support and commitment of Michigan's corporate, philanthropic, and legislative leaders across party lines. Through such collaborative efforts, we can equip young people to build on existing successes and secure unprecedented prosperity for future generations. 

Yours truly,

Krystal