Kristen Graham: “My Crown”

(“Tomorrow’s Voices Today“ is a new series curated by poet and educator Mike Sonksen.)

[alert type=alert-white ]Please consider making a tax-deductible donation now so we can keep publishing strong creative voices.[/alert]

***

You can stare
Because I don’t even care
but don’t you dare touch my hair

These are my coils and curls
and worth more than diamonds and pearls
Hand made for little black girls

God has blessed me with this crown
Given to me in the darkest shade of brown
so don’t you dare pull it down

Because I am a beautiful black queen
so touch my hair and I will scream
and I am not afraid to cause a scene

I love my natural hair because it makes me feel free
so please get that hot comb away from me

I will not relax
I will not straighten
and I will not sit in a salon chair knowing
that my hair is bakin

Because I love every coil, curl,
and especially the looks and stares
so don’t even think about touching
my beautiful natural hair.

What are you looking for?