But, were You there?

As Malcolm held in his dark arms the artillery of force, And Martin yelled with some alarm his words with no remorse. Two black men of great esteem causing quite the scare, Converging both of the extremes to make right what was fair. But, were You there? Were You there? Panthers waiting in the night with fists so full of fury. Nine Little Rocks sit filled with spite before their white cloaked jury. Freedom fighters for the world, a world devoid of freedom. Freedom fighters let unfurl a freer world that left out freedom. But, did You see them? Did You see them? Laws and legislation allowed for Us Our rights. Voter registration for both Blacks and the whites. And Rosa sitting nicely perched in her bus seat, Stops the bus most politely to exit on Beale Street. But, did You see it? Did You see it? Of course You were there, embodied in the spirit Of those who were there Whom did not fear it. Of course You saw Them, in the heart of today Where those who condemn are thrown away. And still You say it has been seen That skin means nothing to You and Me. So when You’re asked, “Where have you been?” “Who did you see?” and “What have you seen?” Remember to say, There and Them because You’re the result of all that has Been.