By Destiny Marrero
Listen to what I have to say
For all yah ignorant, I see every day
Keep talking about my race like it’s an issue
Square up, cause Imma really have to get you.
If only I could curse so you’ll feel my anger,
But if I do your feelings will be in danger
Yah say the dumbest things — getting on my nerves
Congratulations — come get these hands you deserve.
Human nature can only judge what is shown
Therefore you base who I am on my skin tone
Of course, this is completely understandable
Yet why your neurons gotta be so undependable.
For some reason yah swear that yah me
Telling me I’m “JUST WHITE” like you a part of my family tree
Establishing my ethnicity and who I’m supposed to be
Chaining me up — when God made all people free.
Our levels have no comparison
And what I just said wasn’t out of arrogance
I don’t need your opinions or words of acceptance
Ain’t nobody inform you of your irrelevance?
So don’t ask me another question
’Cause I’m tired of your lack of comprehension
Go ahead try me and keep acting slow
My answer remains this — it’s hell to the no.
Hell to the no — I don’t support Trump
And I didn’t do squats to get these little lumps
No, I’m not adopted that is really my fam and my moms
And yes I danced Bachata and twerked a little at prom.
Hell to the no my “BFFs” aren’t Hailey or Brooke
And what you mean — my mom can actually cook
Country music, deer hunting, and trailer homes are a dub
So now yah ignorants better know what’s up.
“Edumacate Yahself” was published in Listening to the Trees, a collection of social justice poems with students from the High School of Fashion Industries in 2016. Help support the unique voices of our young authors by sharing their stories and making a donation! To receive notices about opportunities for your child, sign up for our youth writing opportunities newsletter.
