In a day of many freedoms, we still struggle,against the straight jacket
of racism in many forms. To all who continue the struggle, stay encouraged. Especially my brothers and sisters who are incarcerated, this poem is for you.
On the day you were born,
You became a mighty warrior,
for that, my brother, was the day
your struggle began.
Some would say there is no struggle,
because for them, there is none
that their eyes can see.
They would have you believe
that you are completely free,
but there are invisible chains
imposed by society
The chains that bind have not
completely been overcome.
The work is not done.
As long as we are succumbing to
drugs, alcohol and gang warfare,
The chains are still there!
I know you have had to stand
against adversity all your life.
You may feel as if you are losing the fight,
But you must not surrender to defeat.
Stay on your feet!
There is a paved road to freedom.
You can overcome!
You have inherited a spirit of courage,
endurance and strength from those
who have gone before
You too can open determination's door.
You were born a warrior and warriors stand their ground.
You no longer have to be bound.
Stand tall and fight a courageous battle
Strong black warrior.
You will win!
copyright by Patricia Newman Harris