Akua Lore Zaan Poet Couplet

Hidden Figures

I am black and I say to kindred flames...
Never assert nor cry "things are the same".

It is the height of dishonor to our fathers,
Our hidden figures of the past, and our martyrs.

We no longer must hide. No need for underground trains.
Do not keep blaming injustice. It's a crooked cane.

Wait for the hand of the oppressor? That is madness!
Why would the oppressed ask the slave owner for access?

Let's take it upon our lettered selves to advance.
So, do not say "things are the same". Now is our chance!

If one hidden figure can succeed, there are no excuses.
If one hidden figure has engineered, where are the nooses?

It is a disgrace to our history to assert "things are the same".
It is a dishonor to our hidden figures...a noose and a chain.

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Vee Sherman March 6, 2018 at 5:13 PM I am feeling this work..as many poems of this nature, they cause me to arise and pen...I feel your inner man flowing...Yashua Bless you! A 10!

Millard Lowe July 22, 2017 at 11:40 AM Well penned. Ironically, as things "change", we tend to not amass the changed strategies needed to meet the new situation. Remembering the past must become the "fuel" energizing us to address the liberating needs of today. Indeed, the future belongs to those who prepare today! Peace and Love, Millard Lowe. Akua Lore Zaan July 23, 2017 at 8:26 AM Well said Millard!

Adeyemi Joshua July 22, 2017 at 9:36 AM Lovely,keep the good work.

Michael E. Harris July 21, 2017 at 3:25 PM Excellent. I once heard someone say a person who does not read is no better than one who can not read. The point being just like this states education is key Akua Lore Zaan July 22, 2017 at 3:11 AM I believe that to be the case. Knowledge is the key.

Suzanne Delaney July 19, 2017 at 1:00 PM Congratulations on your poem being featured. Wisdom and understanding eloquently expressed. SuZ

Verlecia Fields July 19, 2017 at 4:23 AM Hi - i can't commit on this poem it to near to my heart - it touches pains so deep - that you could not understand - so i must leave ... Akua Lore Zaan July 22, 2017 at 3:11 AM Verlecia, I want to hear your honest feedback. I know this is a touchy subject among blacks.

Silent One July 18, 2017 at 3:15 PM Powerful lines in this poem, excellent.. Akua Lore Zaan July 22, 2017 at 3:12 AM thanks