It does matter if you’re white or black
Hanging out in the park
chilling with your family
Grilling some homemade burgers
on the BBQ grill
what were you thinking of?
You’ve just stepped out of place!
Because no matter what you do
It does matter if you’re black or white
The heat is on
you’re selling water by the curb
Mom in the background
Bursting with pride
Where do you think you are?
You’re a disgrace to your kind
Because no matter what you think
It does matter if you’re black or white
Moving day is here
You’re full of expectations
Carrying boxes up
That new apart of yours
Can’t you see you don’t belong?
That place is too grand for the likes of you!
No matter where you are
It does matter if you’re black or white
Walking in the neighborhood
Jogging late at night
Shedding stress of the day
Just feeling the breeze on your face
What is that all about?
What do you think gives you that right?
No matter what the law says
It does matter if you’re black or white
Don’t think about it too much
Keep your head down and follow the signs
They are all about you
Written in the blood of your kind
When you’re skin is black
Danger is what you’re all about
Cops are called on you
For doing what people do
Don’t think about it too much
It don’t matter if you’re right or wrong
Your guilt will always be written
On the color of your skin
You’re black you’re a danger to us all
You’re white you’re the savior we’re waiting for
You’re black you’re guilty right on sight
You’re white trauma has guided you wrong
Go back you’re black
Step back you’re black
Stand down you’re black
Don’t move you’re black
It does matter
If you’re white
Or black
I’m black!
©Muriel Vieux
July 1st 2018