Iβm sitting here in a puddle of tears, watching the way you all are reacting now. And I canβt stop and think about how much we needed you before. And I know thatβs not helpful. But damn, we needed each one of you all backing us then. I needed you all before. In reality, I did. Back then, when the Albany police assaulted me. Back when I organized in Beacon for justice and peace. Again when I fought for policies to be changed, I used my voice, strength, and brain when we had a seat at the table.
Now I justifiably do my best to control my emotions and anger because a lot of you seem to get it. Now. For now. Yet this isnβt a momentary, fleeting feeling. It is not a fight. Itβs a standoffβa standstill.
Iβm 11 years in, ten toes down - Iβm 32 years deeply rooted in this life sentence of being black in a society that wants you to be in the back or 6 feet underground. Or worse, feeling these feels from my people.
People are relative. It doesnβt matter your skin complexion. Whereβs your mind at your reflection? Whereβs your action at we canβt detect it.
Please donβt let this fade away. Pull up straight, with your 23βs laced.
The day that politicians, artists, and athletes are on the same level as those of us in the nose bleed seats, is a day of reckoning. Do not relent. Be relentless in your demonstrations.
Please donβt pull up now and then fade away.
I canβt take the pain and sorrow another day.














