The Response - More than Womyn

There is always someone who sets the stage…even if we do not know who it is. The resistance, the movement was pushed forward on the backs of black people and women…

The Decision to Choose a Woman

But why does it have to be a woman?

            Because we can’t be seen as violent.

But why can’t we use a person of youth?

            Because older people garner sympathy.

Buy why does it always have to be women?

            Because men are the brains.

But women are intelligent too!

Why does she have to be married?

            Because unmarried women are uncouth.

Why does she have to watch her mouth?

            Because talkin back helps no one.

You mean because women can’t talk back or ain’t supposed to?

Those backs carried messages of freedom and equality. The face of silent resistance was carefully outlined to fit a mold of piety and grace – she was to be older, married, calm, well-mannered and ‘have sense’.

Buy why can’t she smile?

            Her stoicism sends a message.

But can’t we kill um with kindness?

            Remember, our purpose ain’t to be kind!

And when she sits in that seat,

And when she raises her head,

Who will be the one smiling at her,

You or a white man?

            …