How long will we allow ourselves to be shunned,
to be despised, hated and gunned down?
What will it take for us to take a stand?
A war? Another death? Your child’s dreams being fanned down?
Why should we be chastised because of our skin?
Please stop holding your chin down.
It’s time for us to change what has been set.
Shine from beneath your skin, get up.
All we need will descend.
From all the prayers we send up.
We are strong, beautiful and wise.
I encourage you to rise up.