The Elephant in the Room

Anna, did you know the first time I was ever called a nigger I was in third grade? I didn’t even know what it was or what it meant or that I was any different. But he looked different after my hand pushed his face into the bench on the playground. I was sent home and he stayed in class.

Anna, I was 12 years old the first time I was arrested. Anna, I was sagging my pants, the SRO tackled me, arrested me, put me in cuffs and took me from my middle school hall to juvenile hall, thus the pipeline began, the stigmatization.

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room, “we can’t hire you, because you are a felon.” Thank you for your time Sears.

Anna, in 2005, I’m sure you remember, your sister and I were present during the same crime… she paid a fine and I paid with every opportunity in my life.

Please spare me the, “I don’t see color” and how everyone has an equal chance, with enough hard work and something about boot straps. I can’t even get strapped.

Anna, in 2016, I was spit on and called a nigger over a parking space. Apparently my black body was taking up too much space.

You don’t get screamed at while getting gas or told to go back to your country while getting groceries. I am literally scared for my life, while you’re wondering if your kid will get to play football this year.

I’m wondering when I will begin to feel peace… instead of being in pieces.

Anna, did you know that I am tired…