First in Line

I am first in line to an unknown fate
I am the heart of Ali
The soul of Christ on Calvary
I am Rosa Park’s swollen ankles
Martin tying his shoes in Montgomery

I am the first in line to an unknown fate
I am Harriett Tubman-wide nose and all
I am Spud Webb when they said, “too small”.
I was pushed from the nest and forced to fly
Shackled to my brother- beaten and left to die
I am that nigger that you call me
That handcuffed brother that “fits the description”

I am the first in line to an unknown fate
I am that little girl on her first day of school
I have the ability to face danger without fear
I am Jordan slam dunking over Shaq
My skin is brown yet you call me black
I rushed into the towers on September 11th
Fought in wars to protect your freedom of speech
Freedom to call me names
Freedom to insult my intelligence

I am a super hero
Super Negro
I am courageous
I am persistent
I am first in line
To an unknown fate.

Copyright 2007 by Tanaka. All rights reserved.