Sixteen "Sign 'O' The Times"

Debra Powell-Wright, a Delaware County resident, serves as office manager in Temple University's Military and Veteran Services Center. 'Sixteen "Sign 'O' The Times"' was a finalist in Temple's Creative Writing Contest, summer 2020.

Image of Short Fiction Contest - 2020
Image of Poetry

(In Remembrance of Our Warrior Dawta
Dinsio Nia Adassa Walo-Wright)
 
We have all the words
That tell us that we matter
Say them loud and proud!
 
2
 
(a just B cause shout-out to Lori Tharps)
 
me you us we B
bodacious beautiful proud
capitalized now
 
3
 
(for WE, The People)
#SayHerName
 
JUNETEENTH is Our Day!!!
We must speak and take action!!!
Celebrate FREEDOM!!!
 
4
 
(in memory of Oluwatoyin Salau)
 
Middle of the night
What keeps me awake this time?
Now, tears for Toyin
 
5
 
For my Father and
Grandfather and Ancestors:
History Matters
 
6
 
(for Strength/Courage/Wisdom)
 
When you get weary
Remember your ancestors
They will light your path
 
7
 
(Self-care)
 
Concentrate on joy
When the struggle becomes real
You will smile again
 
8
 
(For Some People)
 
Micro-aggression
Is an anti-Black lives tool
Don't do that today
 
9
 
(Inspired by Bob Marley and The Wailers)
 
Weepin' and wailin'
Brutality on our necks
Tired people rage!
 
10
 
Give thanks for Sistahs
Ancient, wise, centuries old
Blessed by your presence
 
11
 
Don't be fooled by smiles
Malaise might look like mourning
Check in with your fam
 
12
 
(May is Mental Health Awareness Month)
 
If eyes tell da truuf
Deh wud admit ta sadness
Maybe deh wud heel
 
13
 
(Justice for Ahmaud Arbery)
 
Eyes unmasked trauma
When will the joyfulness come?
Not in the mourning
 
14
 
(To & From a Few Sistahs
inspired by a Beres Hammond lyric
 
Got virtual hugs
Rules of Engagement have changed
Love From a Distance
 
15
 
(In First Person)
 
Another mourning
Daybreak has come to visit
Write to life is real
 
16
 
(In Remembrance of Prince...for Me)
 
When daybreak saddens
Know that morning does not last
Into the evening
 
###
 
Debra Powell-Wright
free since June 19, 1865
#OneLuv

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