Abi Adamson
A Black History Month Poem
Updated: Feb 15, 2022
So Black History Month is here
31 days where Black people reflect on our hopes and fears
But these 31 days sometimes feel like a cage
Because Black struggles suddenly take centre stage
But we tussle and hustle all year through
Not being authentic to ourselves because our frustrations brew
Never daring to show any emotion that could cause us pain
400 years plus and sometimes still locked under ball and chain
You might not see it but it’s shackled to us nevertheless
Having to work 5x harder, hoping to impress
Those in power who claim to be fair
But you only have to look at the top to see who’s there
Whilst swerving daily microaggressions with our best poker face
Hoping in our lifetimes we’re seen as equals no matter our race
But each year goes by and October comes back around
Like clockwork we’re reminded of our shades of brown
Because it seems that’s what many people see when they look at us
A box to tick or a token surplus
The fact is no one wants to lose
Some enjoy our rhythm whilst upholding our blues
They say the worst is behind us and we should “let things go”
But if we become complacent, then so does our flow
We’ve allowed a social construct made by mankind to divide
Instead of embracing what makes us beautiful, you were consumed by pride
So when you talk of being an ally, would you really give up your seat
Or would you hold on tight to that privilege that remains so sweet
Even those who are fairer skinned, know deep down
That they’re more likely to be given the acceptance crown
Amongst Black/Brown people our struggles are not the same
Which is why I really don’t like the term BAME
I don’t want to sound like an ingrate, it’s better now than before
But many of us still stand alone behind a closed door
I’m an optimist by nature so my glass is always half full
It means we all have a lot of responsibility to pull
To make sure colleagues, family and friends
Do more than post Black squares and other social media trends
To help racial equality and acceptance for all
Together we conquer and divided we fall
Yes we’re making positive moves but we are still so far
But a generational goal where equity is for everyone should be our north star
Abi Adamson 🤎🖤🤎