Blackish

I can't stand when people make assumptions based on the fact that I am a black woman.
Hearing me express myself in laughter,
as your ears adjust to the morning as you roll your eyes because you're not ready for that blackish today.
Running me like a track as you go down the reasons as to why I am inadequate.
Thinking that it must be that blackish.
They're only good for having babies, ghetto, angry, and sluts.
No I am no Mammy.
But I do have the instinct to protect what's mine.
To care for the innocent and respect those that came before me.
And I know that being a mother is a blessing and a job built for those with the toughest skin.
So if my melanin provides elasticity,
then I am proud to be a warrior.
And I feel bad that your own race didn't see that you were fit for the job.
No I am not Sapphire.
But if raising my voice will get my point across,
then I'll be the arrow that shoots.
Because I have the tendency to take up for those with no voice.
So I'll be like the sea.
As it roars as the storm approaches.
with my third eye open.
Awake! As my neck creates a mind of its own.
And no I am no Jezebel.
But because of my mammy.
Adaptation has caused my hips to extend a little further.
So my clothes hug every curve.
Like your genes, that have caused your eyes to wonder.
And fall into temptation of my kind.
And no my clothes aren't too small.
I'm just trying to absorb more vitamin D and not from you son.

And no I am no Welfare Queen,

But instead of getting to the green, 

It came from your people’s envy. 

Was promised 40 acres and a mule, 

But those broken promises were left in ashes in Tulsa. 

Tried using my people as a science project, 

So now I’m left in the projects. 

And don’t mind using your checks as reparations. 

So the next time you try to get to know me.
Start by asking me my name,
and not assume because I am a black woman.
Before I show you this blackish.