NONNEGOTIABLE

Dear Black Creatives,

Make them pay…

For every treasured idea confiscated

For every suggestion that questioned your intelligence

For every test that tested your testimony

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Make them pay…

For time wasted on recycled waste

For the messes you tirelessly cleaned alone

For every moment you have to apologize for your passion

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Make them pay…

For every urgent meeting that’s many years too late

For every tear of guilt you reluctantly witness

For every time someone whispers, this must be hard for you

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Make them pay…

For your health, for your travel, for your child, for your future

For the wounds you suffered as the glass fell from the ceiling

For every time you lost a piece of you on your journey

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Make them pay…

For your ability to withstand cruelty

For your persistence in races that overlooked your starting position

For your right to be recognized routinely…

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You’ve given so much to be free…

Now truly, make them pay for it…

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Even after you realize it’ll still never be enough…

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Sincerely,

A Token Too