I stopped being a Democrat the day I was told to "get a divorce" when my husband was dying of cancer and I went to see if I could get some food stamps because my paycheck barely covered the mortgage. It then became clear to me how the welfare system ruined black families.

I remember when American black families, although discriminated against, had a lot of dignity. Like those portrayed in "To Kill a Mockingbird" or "Fried Green Tomatoes." Our town in Michigan had a black Elks Club, and several black business organizations.

But, after the rules were changed to giving no assistance to families who had two parents, everything changed. Increases to welfare with each additional illegitimate child gave rise to Welfare Queens, fatherless households, gangs, drug-dealing, etc. Let us not forget, though, that the majority of black citizens work and contribute to society today.

I agree that white and black American citizens need to stick together and change these rules. As President Trump said in his inaugural address, patriotism has no room for prejudice. Let us heal from the last forty years of malfeasance.

And, Cigar Tigher, you are adorable.