Notes About The Poem

ICE recently raided several communities in southwest Kansas, which is nationally known for its ethnic diversity. Immigrants from around the world have come to Garden City and surrounding communities in search of a better life.  These immigrants have become an integral part of the area's economy. and social well-being.   In many instances, these minorities far outnumber the local white population. I find it disgusting and downright immoral what ICE. has done and continues to do.  With that thought in mind, I wrote this poem. 

Strike Up The Band

Strike Up The Band

Strike! Strike!
Strike up the Band!

If you're brown 
please beware

If you’re black
watch your back

If you’re yellow
dive for cover

If you’re red
you’re already dead

Strike! Strike!
Strike up the Band!

They’re coming to take us away!
They’re coming to take us away!

Raise high the flag
Raise high those stars and stripes

We’re Christians and Hindus 
Muslims and Jews

We work, we sing, we dance
We play in parks 
On Sundays after church

We’re neighbors
We’re lovers

We’re builders, cowboys
waiters, and cooks 

We’re hot dog vendors
and ice cream peddlers

We hoe your fields
and pick your fruit. 

We drive your trucks 
and plow your fields

We cut your meat 
and herd your cows

You wonder the price    
You wonder the vice

It’s time to De-Ice
Rid us of these lice?

Strike! Strike!
Strike up the Band!

They came and took us away
				away
					away 
						away to Guantanamo
Copyright © | Year Posted 2026

Poem

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Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace