Conversations with Tyler Merritt

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tyler Merritt. Them and their team share their story with us below:

The Tyler Merritt Project was created to bring proximity to people who may not even be aware that they needed it.

As a 6’2 black man, Tyler has used laughter, empathy, education, and truthful storytelling to create content that breaks down racial barriers and misplaced stereotypes.

In his viral video Before You Call The Cops (with over 100 million views and chosen by NowThis Politics as the most powerful video of 2020). Tyler took 3 minutes to communicate with the world one simple truth; that your story matters.

His message was not only received but it is currently still opening doors for people all over the world to not only empathize with one another but to tell their stories as well. Though Tyler has found himself oftentimes judged simply for existing, he has used his platform to preach that proximity and empathy for one another just might be the key to curing racism.

Now, in his book I Take My Coffee Black: Reflections on Tupac, Musical Theater, Faith and Being Black in America, Tyler tells intimate stories of his life while infusing in laughs, black history, broadway, hip-hop and so much more.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The continued task of having to bypass the stereotypes of being a black man in America will always be a challenge. Learning how to be a Christian but not a jerk was a lesson that took a while to learn.

Finding forgiveness, compassion, and empathy in a world that gives you a thousand reasons (as a black man) to be mad every day has become my superpower.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
The video content that I’ve created on social justice, education on systematic racism, LGBTQ rights and so many other topical issues is easily what I’m most proud about.

With videos from The Tyler Merritt Project like:
These are our kids, Greg:
Commentary on the Texas order made by Governor Greg Abbott

Before You Call The Cops:
One black man’s plea to be truly seen.

Dear George:
A letter to George Floyd

The Playlist:
AKA Walking While Black

All are viewable at thetylermerrittproject.com.

And I’m incredibly proud of my book I Take My Coffee Black, which is receiving critical acclaim all over the world.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I write so much about my parents. My mom and dad were the forces that shaped me.

But my story is told because of all of the friends that have walked with me to the place I am today. I tried my best to honor them with my words in my book.

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: Thetylermerrittproject.com
• Instagram: @thetylermerrittproject
• Facebook: The Tyler Merritt Project
• Twitter: @TTMProject
• Youtube: The Tyler Merritt Project