Dear Beyoncé, 

It’s been a minute since we saw you, and we just wanted to say how truly proud of you we are, not just for what you’ve done but for what you continue to do.

We didn’t want to spend a lot of time gushing over your numerous accomplishments because, as you already know, you are indeed that girl. Instead, we’ve chosen to share the importance of the “RENAISSANCE WORLD TOUR” for so many of us, especially this year.

It may have been your ninth concert tour, but it felt like we were witnessing your artistry for the first time. From the moment you announced the tour on February 1 to the opening concert in Stockholm, Sweden, on May 10 until the end of the tour in Kansas City, Missouri, on October 1, you gained more than just royalties; you created an entire movement that has economic, cultural, and personal impact.

Some of us at BET were fortunate enough to see you in person. I attended both your Las Vegas and your Houston shows, and each time, going to the “RENAISSANCE WORLD TOUR” allowed me to be in community with old and new friends. Something you said at the end of the show hit home for me specifically: that you wanted to “create a safe space for everyone to be themselves without judgment," honestly, each time you mentioned it, I simply burst into tears.

I identify as an openly proud Black, fat, non-binary/femme individual. Rarely do I ever get moments where I truly feel safe. Most days, I ask myself, 'how much emotional and mental capacity do I have to deal with the homophobia and transphobia that have taken up so much space in the world? What must I do to safeguard myself knowing that I will inevitably come across someone who will spew something anti-Black?' Being me is a risk, but when I was at your show, all my fears disappeared, giving me the chance to do something I rarely get to do: simply exist without fear of retribution. 

Singing along to your catalog of songs, dancing in the venue, and watching people celebrate each other as their authentic selves are things that I will never forget. I saw people—near and far—unify over the “on mute” challenge. I will never forget what it felt like to be in a room and hear people get so excited when Blue Ivy joined you on stage. It was the way my section got so hyped up when we heard ballroom legend Kevin JZ Prodigy’s voiceover before Formation. It was hearing people sing along to the words of T.S. Madison on Cozy. It was seeing people smile, sing, thrive, and revel together in joy. I didn't know how much I truly needed all of it this year.

What you’ve done with RENAISSANCE is deeper than just music. You reminded us of the legacy and memory of your Uncle Johnny, who, like others, left us too soon. You encouraged people, post-pandemic, to feel confident enough to splurge and travel to new places to see you. You made silver a staple color in our wardrobes. You let us unapologetically celebrate our Blackness. You provided a safe space where many of us found a sense of belonging. Most of all, you delivered a universal blueprint for pure joy. To say I know Uncle Johnny is proud would be a true understatement.

If you’re wondering how your fans (and even the critics) will receive “RENAISSANCE,” wonder no more. We are excited to witness your vision once again and it comes at a time when we could use a dose of inspiration. You may not understand how this film will bring peace and joy to a world that keeps us bound in struggle. I am here to confirm that this is exactly what we need right now, especially for those who identify as Black LGBTQ+.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for allowing us to live in this moment. Thank you for contributing to the soundtrack of our lives. Thank you for unifying us as a community and as a culture. Thank you for honoring the ancestors and creating an experience I will always cherish and hold near and dear to my heart.

With Love and Pure Honey, 

🐝 🐝 🐝 🐝

–DoctorJonPaul, a BET Contributing Writer