The line of demarcation is only 9 blocks from the capitol’s feet.
Important information but, what does it matter to me?
Springfield, my city in 1865 where Lincoln happened to be.
Signed the 13th amendment so that Negros would be free.
For hope to change America’s financial divide.
For the government to pick a refreshing side.
While proclaiming progress for the matter of black lives.
Yet rephrasing and legitimizing the language of genocide.
Hopeful words and hopeless works in mass.
The etymology of systemic neglect added to the tasks.
Epitomizing black laws unjustly without any class.
Usurped unfounded proclivity, bound and burned if sassed.
It is quite obvious today and easy as hell to see.
The progression of oppression in these segregated east side streets.
Burdened to resettle without justice on repeat.
While looking at the hallowed etching built upon our keep.
Sedentary due to repeated traumas encased behind closed doors.
Expectations in a biased world that beat, raped and killed my ancestors.
Blamed for the baggage that is anchored to our souls.
Blamed for the incurable hope, white supremacy repeatedly stole.
Trust and understand this message, I will fight before I flee.
Running from fear and terror doesn’t make you much more free.
And don’t expect me to not acknowledge the antithesis that I see.
When the line of demarcation is only 9 blocks from the capitol’s feet.
2025 Shatriya Smith
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This article appears in Juneteenth 2025.
