The Scars

"The Scars" is a historical fiction poem inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement. Using verse as her medium, the author expresses the struggles of four generations of African-American men who all had to deal with racism and prejudice. The poem chronicles the journey from Great Grandfather's horrific voyage in captivity on the slave ship through the generations to the Son in modern day America dealing with the scars that are left from his heritage. This poem was written as a tribute to and to demonstrate solidarity with those who understand the painful necessity and historical legitimacy of the Black Lives Matter narrative. Above all, "The Scars" is a poignant plea from a young writer who is using her pen to help pry off the scales from the eyes of Americans who refuse to recognize the lingering residue of racial injustice against the African-American community so that the nation may finally unite in its commitment to the simple truth that all people have the right to be treated with equal respect and dignity.