I am no longer lying to myself
content to sit at a table
built by the bones of
histories we buried
with blind eyes.
Ignoring voices in pain
their aches muted
even as ours yearned
to howl with agony
the truth we hid from.
I stood in place scared to move
and watch you fight the battles
that would lead to my ascension.
I grow my roots
feeding off the blood of your loss
deluding myself that shelter
can come from the homes
built from stolen promises.
© Manivillie Kanagasabapathy
AN: International Day for the Elimination of Racism (March 21)
