Poetry of Pain

Suspended

Why Am I Not Black Enough?

Why am I suspended from being Black?

You say it’s the way I speak and how I act.

I read the teachings of Marcus Garvey.

I even took time out to listen to Steve Harvey.

You say since I am articulate as a Black person, I am lesser.

I say your beliefs are slave shadows cast on you by the oppressor.

My heritage is a source of pride.

Being Black is something I would never hide.

I grew up in the integration of Martin’s dreams.

I watch in horror as our nation is being torn apart at the seams.

Blackness is not a state, it is a state of mind.

So, I scoff at the suspension because my Blackness is just fine.

Being a part of the integration generation had advantages and disadvantages. I certainly received a better education than my parents, but the cultural disconnect is painful for me.