I Am...

I am an African-American,

in a society that bases everything off the color of your skin,

instead of one's character and personality.

I live in America, “the land of the free”,

but are we truly free? does the Statue of Liberty truly provide liberty?

How are we free when we live in a place, where you get killed for being colored?

How are we free if innocent people are getting murdered by enforcers of the law?

My ancestors did not fight for this!

My ancestors were forced from their homes and families, chained and shackled,

beaten and tortured just for not making the white man satisfied,

slaved to work hours upon hours in the scorching hot sun of the south

And what did they receive? NOTHING!

I am an African-American,

trying to live my life without being the next victim of police brutality.

Attempting to avoid being beaten, tazed, and thrown to the concrete just for jaywalking.

Dodging the fact that I, as a black teen, will be treated worse than another 14 year old

because I am shades darker than he is.

I am an African American,

pushing through the labels that society has on my community.

I am seen more as a suspect than a victim in today’s society.

They view us as thieves, murderers, liars, cheaters, jailbaits,

Instead of what we really are or strive to become,

scientist, adventures, engineers, doctors, lawyers, politicians, pastors.

I am an African American

fighting to make a change.

Taking each step one by one to make our voices heard.

Aiming to reach the top, and not stopping until change is not just talked about, but fulfilled.

I am an African American,

15 years of age, reflecting on what society makes me feel,

Supporting my people through the #BlackLivesMatter movement,

And standing up for what I know is right.

We are African Americans,

We are not going to be left in the dust anymore,

We are not going to be treated as a subordinate race,

We are no longer being tormented by police,

We are not going to let society decide our fate!

We can overcome

We will overcome

WE SHALL OVERCOME,

because I, Brayden Pridgen, I am an African American.