Why Did Colin Take a Knee?

Why did Rosa just sit down?

Why did Martin march through town?

Why did four at Woolworth's wait?

Why did Thurgood integrate?

Why did Malcolm raise a fist?

Why was Medgar’s life at risk?

Why did Langston’s poems ring?

Why did Maya’s caged bird sing?

Why was Trayvon shot and killed?

Why was Laquan’s life-blood spilled?

Why can’t everybody see

what made Colin take a knee?

Colin Kaepernick is a former professional football player who played quarterback for the San Francisco ‘49ers. During the 2016 season, Kaepernick began quietly protesting the oppression of African Americans by kneeling during the National Anthem rather than standing. Taking a knee as a form of protest in support of the Black Lives Matter movement quickly spread throughout the sports world and more. Kaepernick was greatly maligned for his protest by many fans, the football league, and national politicians, claiming his protest was disrespectful to those in the military. His contract was not renewed, nor would any other NFL team rehire him.

This poem and blurb—which I post here in celebration of Black History Month—was published in 2020 in a little book of social/political satire I composed called Nursery Rhymes for Troubled Times. (It’s still on Amazon) This one almost went viral on Instagram in 2018. 

Now check out Poetry Friday hosted by Robyn Hood Black. Happy Black History Month, Valentines!