Yes

 

I wrote this piece in a former poetry class and it received some controversy for its bluntness. I’m not apologizing for what is said in this poem because it speaks the truth. It’s about respect, acceptance of race and a culture and igniting change in this country. While we have made some progress in ending discrimination against others, we still have a long way to go. My hope is that the next generation finally cracks the code to achieving peace and harmony.

Yes

Africa runs her course deep through my veins.

My skin, is a smooth russet from centuries spent in the sun

And my hair, as thick as a lion’s mane.

I am African American

And you, a Caucasian

But what does it matter?

Yes

We were made from the same grain;

When you mix sand with dirt,

When you mix ash with gravel,

you will see that we were made from the same Earth.

Yes

There is no escaping the truth;

That we have equal rights,

We read and enjoy the same authors,

Can write words that fly off the page

And involve ourselves with politicians.

Yes

Cut me open and watch the blood-

from decades of oppression and freedom,

from red hatred and burning independence –

seep from this open and forgiving wound.

Yes

What you see or think you know

Is only a part of your creation.

It’ll be a while before you and I

Will finish the bridge of unity

And move pass immaturity and ignorance.

Yes

We have a lot of work to do.