Sometime in the fall of 2014, D Haynes 8 Dawg (aka @dhaynes__ ) called me, “My girl’s moving to the city—will you look out for her?” & as a girls’ girl through and through, I didn’t hesitate. I was excited to meet the woman who had my friend so smitten, and couldn’t wait to welcome her to 5E for one of my infamous girls’ nights. What began as a favor became a friendship. Not only did Lex fit right in from the very beginning, but nearly 11 years later, she’s become a true friend, a confidant, and an irreplaceable part of our Sister Circle. D, thank you for trusting me with your love. #ToHaveAndToHaynes was a celebration of Black love, legacy, and the village that holds it all together. We danced, we laughed, we cried—and we gave thanks. Thank you for letting us witness your love. May your union be covered, full, and forever.