I was once invited to participate, <br />In a seminar. <br />To discuss the effects of racism, <br />Conducted many miles away in an isolated <br />Remote area <br />Distanced from where the effects took place. <br />Near my home. <br />And I was to be the only Black to appear, <br />On this prestigious panel. <br /> <br />I declined the offer. <br />Since I felt it was ridiculous, <br />To remove myself away from those 'effects' <br />While in discussion with others, <br />Who kept perpetuated the acceptance <br />Of expressed indifferences. <br /> <br />Plus I had attended another affair, <br />At the same location... <br />As others listened intently, <br />While I explained reasons for wearing my hair <br />In dreads! <br />And if it had an affect on my identity. <br /> <br />I was then asked to come again, <br />Next time I was in the area. <br />As if these 'settings' would be missed, <br />In my life! <br />And those who 'sympathized' with my plight, <br />Would embrace my need to receive their acceptance. <br />With an understanding of my internal turmoil. <br />Which, of course, had to depress, <br />My sensibilities. <br /> <br />Yes! <br />Only an eyewitness experiencing this, <br />Would appreciate the sacrifices I make. <br />Living amongst those who have not been so 'chosen' <br />To escape from their deprived and substandard conditions. <br />Inflicted upon them by those less liberal of deed. <br /> <br />I feel so blessed to be honored, <br />By those 'willing' to share their comfort zones! <br />However... <br />There is something about my own environment, <br />That affords me the freedom to express less pretentiousness. <br /> <br />Although I must say this, <br />Being a 'victim' of those who are racists... <br />Has, at times, been to my benefit. <br /> <br />At least I know where they are coming from. <br />And I have been given opportunities to avoid them! <br />With a choice to leave them and their preceptions, <br />'Impressed' upon their limited consciousness. <br />And I, <br />Could leave them alone to glorify their intentions.<br /><br />Lawrence S. Pertillar<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/the-effects-of-racism/
