The Mask

Behind our smile, stands a Harriet Tubman.

Behind our grin, sits a Frederick Douglas.

Behind our shuffle, struts a Paul Robeson.

Behind our whine, screams a Malcolm X.

Yes, we wear the mask.

But Ye, who stole our labor and cheated our ancestors,

Beware!

One day your plastic world will crack open

To release the doves of justice

And to let fly the eagles of peace.