History Lesson

I'd like for you to rewind to a time when Something as innocent as the color of your skin Could earn you a severe and horrible beating Leaving you battered, broken, and bleeding. Picture yourself in a place where Hatred and obscenities pierced the air All because of the deluded minds Of people who "don't like your kind." This was America's society, one flawed With preconceived notions and laws Intended to tear down a race That, after so many years, was still gaining a face. Were it not for individuals like X, Parks, and King Today we would not be able to sing Of the glorious freedom that was found Because of revolutionaries who transcended all bounds. This freedom was not discovered because we envisioned The destruction of our oppressors as our mission, But because we saw past the deceit Of the pain and prejudice that brought us heat. Because we recognized the true enemy This nation, whose races are many Overcame a repulsive evil That pierced fragile hearts like a needle. I encourage you to reflect On the peace that activists strive to protect. For their efforts successfully united Fifty states that were civilly divided. We Americans, all yet one Must remember that victory was won Not through the poison of retaliation But through the elixir of unification.