What We Tell Our Black Sons
If you are stopped by a policeman
raise your hands, fall to the ground,
spread eagle, then pray.
You are a black male and I want you
live to see another day.
Never walk alone, protection in groups
Be mannerable, say yes, sir or yes, mum.
Keep head bowed, do not look directly into their eyes.
They find it threatening, this gives them a reason
to stand their ground, that may mean death for you.
Do not wear a hoodie like Trayvon Martin
while carrying skittles to his little brother
in Sanford, Fla- dead.
Nor walk home in the Homewood area like Jordan Miles
with pop in his pocket in Pittsburgh, Pa- beaten mercilessly
Johnny Gammage driving a Jaguar late at night
through Brentwood, Pa-- dead.
I tell you son, being by yourself at night
walking or driving when black
can endanger your life. It frightens me.
Please, I beg you, listen to me,
you cannot fight the "stand your ground" law.
By Beatrice Vasser
Beatrice Vasser is retired teacher and licensed
professional counselor.
Beatrice Vasser is retired teacher and licensed
professional counselor.
