Amerikkka

By Shakeva Griswould

I have been gagged by the constitution

blindfolded by the American flag

lynched by my box braids

I hang with niggas that shuck/jive for a higher spot 

On the tree

‘cuz if we gonna die

We die with the oppressors apologies on our lips as they tighten our nooses 

And be proud

When they watch our bodies sway in the wind

“Look massa! See how my neck twists for you?”

This isn’t a black poem 

I do not want to label anything 

Black

For fear it will be taken from me

Gentrified

then returned on a Styrofoam plate

This is the cycle of black things

They are born

Drenched in flour

Turned into a hashtag

Distorted to fit the “All lives Matter” agenda:

“Well black people didn’t invent

(insert style/dance/talent here)”

Please do not label this as a black poem

I want this one 

to keep

I do not need this poem remixed

into an acoustic version 

About Shakeva Griswould:

Born and raised in the Bronx, Keva G has been writing since she was 9 years old. Now, at 21, she is continuing her blossoming into a full-fledged performer. Her talents include emceeing, poetry, and hosting. Her work has been featured in numerous publications, including F(R)iction magazine, Girls Write Now anthologies, and The Bronx Native Writer’s anthology.  Keva has performed at the Nuyorican Poets Café, The Point, The Intrepid Museum, and the world-famous Apollo Theater. She is a recipient of the Phife Dawg Style Award (presented by Urban Word) for her civic engagement, mentorship, and community involvement. She wishes to uplift the world through her expression and kindness. Currently, Keva is working on her first mixtape.