I Have a Dream: Inaugural Poems for a New Generation

SOFIA NADEAU Exigent Once rivaled now considered equal, the oppressed stood.

Stood in memory of those before them, In remembrance of their ancestors who endured pain, suffering, and strife.

Stood with their worth and basic human rights up to the polished, unscathed feet of the commander, and demanded change.

Change was given, but with uncertainty and hesitancy.

Change was given, but was it truly made?

We say with certainty things have changed.

Things have gotten better.

But look at what’s happened.

Our so-called protectors took the life of an innocent man.

I can’t breathe.

Our so called protectors took the life of an innocent protector.

Wrong house.

Actions beyond reason.

Lives lost beyond morality.

Say their names.

Just as the petals of hope were withering away, A ray of sun, A drop of water, And the revival of aspirations.

Americans were waking up.

Waking up to the cries for justice, Waking up to the masses marching in the street.

We found our voice and grabbed it as tight as we could.

Because if we didn’t, it would slip back into the hands of the oppressors.

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