Somebody, somewhere is saying, “We got a good ass system.”

We could change all the laws and still get ‘em

We can box ‘em in so many wrongs; right won’t fit ‘em

Walk up in the church not even Jesus can save ‘em

Discrimination ain’t like our Granddaddies’ days

But I swear there’s a sign up that reads, “No Colored Allowed To Breathe.”

Stereotypes are more common than cursive

Books are contraband in jails like black bodies are purses

Highlight black lives matters to little fanfare

Somebody, somewhere is saying, “All lives matter you ass whole.”

As if, you could tell us how to feel

As if, working twice as hard is a deal

As if, being young, black, and conscious is a segway to claim reverse racism is real

We might just march for reparations call it the black tax

Back charge the USA until black lives have 40 acres and a mule placed on black cards

It’s possible if Germany could pay Holocaust victims

Good Lord, that’s a whole lot of money

Good Lord, this situation ain’t worth waiting

Good Lord, I can’t comprehend this frustration

Seeing aunts, uncles, brothers and sisters as if they’re the walking dead

Instead of like Scientists, Engineers, and survivors who thrived

If only a negro spiritual could free us at last

But truth be told between the world and me

This isn’t a game of cards when we shout

“I declare war,” on this hypocrisy.

—

Rashaun J. Allen (@rashaunjallen) is the author of A Walk Through Brooklyn & In The Moment. He has been featured in several publications such as: The Chronicle, The Troy Record, Albany Student Press & UA Magazine. Find his books at www.Royalbluepublishing.com and follow his personal blog at www.rashaunjallen.com.