The "Heights" Identity Theft

Looking both ways 

before crossing the street

is a good sign 

that we’ve learned 

the necessities

of surviving 

in this neighborhood

Without it 

we’d be the posters

watered down by the rain 

that hang from streetlights

which have forgotten

We exist.

I need to speak 

To these streets

Who have seen me grow

And ask Deli’s why…

Why are they disappearing?

Ask the police 

Where are the 

Black Boys and Girls?

Who have left 

Without no trace.

Where’s the “Heights” 

I once knew?

Roads are learning 

New languages

Which I cannot understand 

And slowly 

I’m being silenced

Until my voice is muffled

And I loose strength 

To ask Why.