I Want My Mimi to Know

Tykari B.

“Until the lion writes his own story, the tale of the hunt will always glorify the hunter.”

The Soy Autor writing process was developed in collaboration with young people at-risk of, victims of or perpetrators of violence in El Salvador. In 2016, this innovative program launched at Cook County Jail with young men awaiting trial for violent offenses.Through the process of drafting, revising, illustrating and publishing memoirs, the Authors’ Circle develops reflection, critical thinking, literacy skills, conflict resolution and positive self-projection.

In collaboration with:

Cook County Sheriff’s Office

I Want My Mimi to Know Tykari B.

Two weeks passed and still no call from her dad.

Mimi felt miserable.

Her mom just lets her phone ring every night.

Mimi is sure it gots to be her daddy calling to speak to his little girl.

My Mimi has become a teenager since I’ve been in jail.

The last time I seen her she was only 12.

This year she will be turning 15.

I love my daughter.

I just want what’s best for her and to be in her life.

I could never imagine this would happen to me, being separated from my child, not to mention being in jail.

I won’t lose hope.

I know that one day, we will be re-united again, me and my Mini Me,

my beautiful daughter,

whom I love and cherish.

I will do the best I can to reach out to my Mimi and be there for her.

I will always love her, no matter what.

She is my pride and joy.

I miss the times when she was a little girl and we would watch movies together.

It was always fun having her around.

Soon and very soon I will be home.

I know this world is no place for a young girl to be alone.

Remember, you only have one dad.

You are my princess and my baby girl even when you are fully grown.

Your one and only daddy loves you and will always be there for

you and he misses you, too‌

To my Mimi and to all the Mimi’s in the world: you are special.

Remember: All little girls deserve to have a daddy love them and be there for them.

TYKARI B. is a founding member of the Authors Circle in ConTextos’ Chicago Project. He is a devoted father, community member and advocate for youth.

Mr. Blackmon plans to continue writing beyond his inaugural effort, I Want my Mimi to Know, and focus his pen on urban fiction and screenplays.