We fail to see there was a problem,
Until we learn about it in history class.

We assume somebody else will stand up for inequality,
So we do not have to.

We watch as our neighbor is denied their rights,
Because we are not them.

We only act if it is needed,
Even if we see others being denied what they deserve.

We see historical literature as the past,
When we are the ones with the pen in hand.

We pretend we are not special,
So that we can sleep soundly while wars are waged.

We are oppressed,
But only by the limitations of our own expectations.

We do not realize that the person we call our hero,
Never thought they would be looked up to.