An ode to our ancestors

I am all the people who came before me And I am all the people who will come after me This is an ode to all of our ancestors Just because we don't all share the same blood Does not not mean that we are not one To me inheritance Isn't just about family But communal experiences I inherited my voice From those who were silenced but not quiet I inherited my purpose From those who didn't get justice I inherited my essence From ghosts Of our ancestors I inherited the power of love A force stronger than the hatred They shoved down our throats I inherited the strength From those who dared to go against the system What I honour is every black life who fought, spoke and died for us And it would be a dishonour to keep quiet and not speak up And to them I'm very thankful And my children will inherit All of the above An ode to our ancestors