I Retained, Why

I watch and wait;
Waiting for my turn to be free.

I ask myself,
'Why in the hell are they doing this to me?’

Why have you chosen me?
Is it the color of my skin?
Is it my background or
Is it where I've been?

I wasn't born to a great family;
Rich,
but filled with poverty.

Born and raised in the hood;
I had no place in knowing where I stood.

I cry, "Help me!"
I've become hostile and blue!
I don't belong here!
Can't you hear me,
Won't You?

I hear my name called.
I began to anticipate.
Moving slowly from the chair;
I never planned to be an advocate.
I think I hear:
(Cease and desist
You have been dismissed)

I move slowly for judgment.
The judge says I'm not free.
He says that the assailant was black,
So it had to be me.

I am an African American!
Say it correctly!
"It's you." He says.
"It just has to be."

I am born here
Unselfish and retained.
Born not in the ghetto,
Would it be the same?