Declaration
We hold these truths to be self-evident,
That all men are created equal
Therefore, we shall not be marginalized
Cast to the side as if:
Rotten leftovers or afterthoughts
No more shall we be complacent
Tolerance is more than passive acceptance
If we are endowed by our Creator
With certain unalienable Rights,
Then we want to be understood–heard
We will show you: power in numbers
As we challenge institutional structures
Based on the notion of divide and conquer
When our Form of Government becomes destructive,
It is the Right of the People to alter or abolish it
So, raise your fists my:
LGBT, POCs, women, working class,
Poor, and disabled–those note labeled
We all fall on some sort of spectrum
Beyond dichotomies of “us versus them”
Oppression has always been met with resistance
As we blend histories of shared experiences:
We mutually pledge to each other
Our Lives, our Fortunes, and our Sacred Honor.
Reflection
Similar to episode three, this poem is not necessarily one of my favorites. Although it fits with the overall theme for this segment and includes a positive message, it hasn’t quite reached the full potential. Maybe, like the poem inspired by Lolo Henry, I will revisit this in the future.
As for now, I do think the call for action is relevant and fitting. When we share our experiences, we honor our unique perspectives that can be added to a larger context.
My hope is that this podcast becomes a springboard
Prompt
For this week, explore a topic or style that captures you. It does not have to be biographical or true. It can delve into science fiction, fantasy, mystery, and so forth. You do not have to be the center of the writing, but I want the piece to reflect your interests and imagination.