An Ode to the Skin I'm In
via nappy. co ( Eye For Ebony )
via nappy. co (Eye For Ebony)
By Portia Weise
Because I am Black, I am compelled to write these words.
Because I am Black, it pains me to say this.
Because I am Black, I must get my point across.
Because I am Black, I am not inferior.
Because I am Black, doesn’t mean I’m less deserving.
Because I am Black, doesn’t mean your hair is better than mine.
Because I am Black, doesn’t mean your skin is better than mine.
Because I am Black, I may in fact, be smarter than you but because I am Black…
Because I am Black, doesn’t mean I’m going to automatically shoot 3-pointers.
Because I am Black, doesn’t mean I can punt a ball or run lightning speed.
Because I am Black, when I walk into your establishment do not follow me around.
Because I am Black, I am furious to have to write these words.
Because I am Black, don’t let the words angry black woman roll off your tongue.
Because I am Black, doesn’t mean I am game for your hunt.
Because I am Black, doesn’t mean you will use me to fill your prisons.
Because I am Black, doesn’t mean I am going to rob, rape, or murder you.
Because I am Black, I am compelled to write these words.
Because I am Black, it brings me great joy to say this.
Because I am Black, I will get my point across.
Because I am Black, I am equal.
Because I am Black, I deserve it all.
Because I am Black, my hair is fruitful; no matter how short or long it may be.
Because I am Black, my skin is beautiful armor.
Because I am Black, I can be a writer, engineer or doctor.
Because I am Black, there’s a possibility you will work for me.
Because I am Black, the rhythm of my ancestors will always send vibrations through my bones.
Because I am Black, it will prompt you to ask me how to do this dance.
Because I am Black, the triumphant victories of those before me will illuminate from my shining melanin.
Because I am Black, its in my DNA to win.
Because I am Black, I have no desire to sit here and write these words.
Because I am Black, I have but no choice.
Because I am Black, I will be damned if I let the history you’ve created for me and my people continue to manifest.
Because I am Black, I will put myself to the test.
And, I suggest, you don’t ever try to stop me.
Because I am Black.
Portia Weise is a writer from Queens, NY. She wants to connect and take readers on a journey. “It is my duty to transport them into another world. And, I gladly will do so.” Follow her work.
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