Page 137 - Poems by Alyson Malach - Childhood to Adulthood

Schools are meant to be safe spaces

In the classroom's glow, a child's spirit soared,
But whispers of bias left her heart ignored.

An 8-year-old, innocent, pure as dawn's dew,

Yet racism's shadow cast a darker hue.

Teachers, guardians of minds, in their grasp,

Held the power to stem prejudice's rasp.

Yet silence prevailed, like leaves in the breeze,
While the child's innocence shattered with ease.

Now in her twilight, six decades have passed,

But memories linger, eternally amassed.
Those moments of pain, etched deep in her soul,

A toll of racism, exacting its toll.

Let's rewrite the script, let's chart a new course,
Where schools become havens, a source of remorse,

For the injustice endured, a beacon of light,

Proactive, not reactive, to set things right.

For every child, regardless of race,
Deserves to learn in a welcoming space.

Let's reach out to educators, parents, and all,

To build a future where inclusion stands tall.

With empathy's guidance, and courage our guide,

Let's pave the way for a world unified.

Where every young dreamer can spread their wings,
And soar to the heights that equality brings.

Alyson 28.4.24

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