Subtracted
by Dee Allen, with image from the Black and Missing Foundation
Sisters aren’t valued
In this world of ours
Seen nowhere on the streets
Not the hospitals, malls or bars
Because they’re
Missing
Subtracted
From the city
Headcount cut down in size.
Sisters aren’t respected
In this world of ours
Yet their kin are fraught w/ worry.
Long absence digs in the scars
Because they’re
Missing
Subtracted
From the city
Headcount fell before our eyes.
Sisters, mothers,
Aunties, lovers
Our hearts—snatched up suddenly.
Sisters, mothers,
Aunties, lovers
Police won’t help—where could they be?
[Written in response to the Black women missing and murdered in Kansas City, Missouri U.S.A.]
