A word born from ignorance and hate

A word to oppress, to limit our fate

To perpetuate a stereotype far from correct

But we use it so casually, what should we expect?

 

It poisons rappers’ lyrics as they try to be cool

Then becomes the norm in the halls of highschool

A new term of endearment, this word I abhor

But what did our ancestors live and die for?

 

Why did they struggle? Why did they fight?

Even when beaten, when taken at night.

To allow the use of a word that chains?

Puts all the freedoms strived for to shame?

 

We must show our gratitude for all they have done

Giving us the chance to be what we have become

So I beg, I implore, us to think before we speak

To refrain from using a word that defines us as weak

 

Certainly, as we grow and time goes by,

As the odds against us are constantly defied,

Certainly,hopefully, we have to be more

Than the derogatory n-word I abhor