Recently I've noticed that a number of Journalscape folks have been posting poetry in their journal entries -- kind of like some poetry-blog meme or something. Well, I figure I'll jump on board with the trend and put up one of my favorite poems, which I'm sad to say I actually first heard while - long ago - watching an episode of Picket Fences on TV. (Who says TV can't educate?)

Be nice if the current administration could hear Hughes' song (or even be able to read the poem.)

***

Langston Hughes
I, too, sing America

I, too, sing America.

I am the darker brother.
They send me to eat in the kitchen
When company comes,
But I laugh,
And eat well,
And grow strong.

Tomorrow,
I'll be at the table
When company comes.
Nobody'll dare
Say to me,
"Eat in the kitchen,"
Then.

Besides,
They'll see how beautiful I am
And be ashamed--

I, too, am America.