Troy's Why


Reflecting on my journey often brings to mind Stevie Wonder's poignant song "I Wish," which begins, “Looking back on when I was a little nappy-headed boy.” My experiences, though challenging, have shaped who I am today, and I wouldn’t trade them for anything.

I hail from Columbus, Ohio, born in 1965 during a pivotal era of the civil rights movement. My parents, both civil rights activists, married young and welcomed my younger brother and me into a world that was as turbulent as it was transformative. They organized marches, strikes, and boycotts, instilling in us a deep pride in our heritage and a commitment to social justice.

My family's life took a significant turn when my father was drafted to serve in the Vietnam War, despite being a husband and father to two young children. He refused the draft, believing it unjust to fight for a country that denied him fundamental rights and equal opportunities. His principled stance resulted in a three-year sentence in federal prison, a stark contrast to the community service sentences typically given to white conscientious objectors.

Throughout my childhood, we often relied on extended family for support, and at age 12, we relocated to San Rafael, California, to live with my aunt. This small town in Marin County, just across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco, represented a significant cultural shift. Transitioning from predominantly Black, inner-city neighborhoods in Columbus—where my elementary school was 98% Black—to a suburban, affluent community that was around 90% white was jarring.

This move challenged me to adapt and find common ground with individuals from diverse backgrounds. It opened my eyes to the realities of generational wealth and the privileges that come with financial security. I witnessed firsthand how safe environments and stable resources empower children to believe in their potential and pursue their aspirations.

Ultimately, I believe that the economic safety net, or generational wealth, which African Americans have historically been excluded from is central to the conversation around reparations. Addressing these disparities can provide opportunities for many African Americans who struggle to create a better future for their families. My journey has reinforced my commitment to advocating for equity and justice, ensuring that others can achieve the opportunities that have sometimes been out of reach.