We are taught to pledge allegiance to the flag

A flag that represents valor, unity, and justice

“One nation,” we say

“Indivisible, with liberty and justice for all,” we say

But we pledge a lie

One nation, divided by hatred

One nation, where people’s color matters more than their heart

One nation, split from fear

Whilst fighting for equality and justice,

Rubber bullets soar

The blue ram their cars through the people they are meant to serve

Gas brings tears to people’s eyes

But whilst fighting for suppression

Whilst attacking the symbol for the American government

The blue protect none

They take selfies with rioters instead

How could they?

How could they wave the flag of racism so proudly?

How could they disregard the system which they claim to hold so dear?

How could they raise themselves on a pedestal when others have been choked under a knee?

I’m sorry to Breonna Taylor, for invading your home.

I’m sorry to Micheal Brown, for interrupting your conversation with a friend.

I’m sorry to Botham Jean, for the police officer who could not distinguish your home from hers.

I’m sorry to Tamir Rice, for interrupting your playtime.

But we won’t stop fighting

You’re not gone in vain

However long it takes,

We won’t stop fighting

I believe that we can get there someday

Bring some truth back into what we pledge

Where we can truly declare

We are one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all