Celine B Poet Free verse

I Do Not Belong To You

I will not be your puppet in a minstrel show 
Because I guarantee no Mammy, Jezebel, or Sambo lives here 
You may try to control my thoughts and dreams
But I will not be your Venus Hottentot
As you stare in awe of my beauty through a glass cage

I will not be your freak show
or your gateway to a cultural experience
So please find your own

I will not be your token prize that you flaunt for credibility 
Referencing my existence ever-so-often to quench your thirsty guilt 
I will not allow you to parade my black skin as a badge of honor 

I will not let you touch my kinky locs  
I will not let you use my tears to wash away your sins 
I will not ‘dance monkey dance’ 
I will not sing or perform for you 

My body is not a vessel for your insecurities 
Do not twist and turn my limbs into a web of amusement
I will not plaster a smile on my face while you poke and prod my soul
Because I do not belong to you

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Line Gauthier February 7, 2021 at 9:49 AM It's a pleasure to find your powerful poem published in the 2020 PS Anthology, Belle.

Jennifer Fenn October 18, 2020 at 2:14 PM Very thought provoking and powerful. It’s also inspiring for anyone who needs to learn to stand up for themselves.

Edward Ibeh September 16, 2020 at 6:16 PM Powerful, brilliant and captivating write, Celine:-) I thoroughly enjoyed your poem. Welcome to poetrysoup! Celine B September 17, 2020 at 1:42 AM Thank you, Edward! I'm honored to receive the stamp of approval from such a prolific and talented poet!:)