Justice for All

 

Do I have to be Black to be angry at the injustice in the world?

Do I have to be Black to be afraid to walk, or jog, or bird watch?

Do I have to be Black to be sad because a fellow human being was murdered by police?

Do I have to be Black to be heartbroken because of the violence overlooked?

 

No. Because—I am not Black.

But I am angry at injustice.

Afraid for those who can’t walk, or jog, or bird watch without fear.

Afraid for those who are mistreated and racially profiled.

Sad for death uncalled for.

Heartbroken for those who have lived with injustice their whole lives.

 

I am ashamed of those who perpetrate evil and those who look on but do nothing.

I am embarrassed our Country will not step up and do the right thing.

Change the laws. Force police to be accountable for their actions.

Our leaders must be brave. Do the right thing. Change the system.

All people should have the same rights of freedom and justice for all.

Where have I heard that before?

 

Copyright by Barbara Held