My Groove Echo: 11.23.15

(for Jordan Davis, forever 17)

We are not invisible
simply because you refuse to see us.
We will not stop fighting
simply because you demand our obedience.
We will not stop dancing
simply because you refuse to hear our song.
We will not give up
simply because you want us to believe
that power/concedes without a struggle.
We are not going to forfeit our voices
simply because you are tired of hearing our words.
We will not stop shouting
simply because you try to cut out our tongues.
We will not stop coming
simply because you hold up your palm.
We will not continue to be your monsters,
the things that go bump in your night,
the reason you toss and turn in your sleep
simply because you refuse to recognize our humanity.