Better to wait at the gate?
The temptation is to lift the latch and enter.
It is, after all, a public space.
But women know guard dogs lie in wait
on the other side of the gate.
Thus, carefully, we negotiate
each step along the way,
fearful of unleashed dogs nipping at our heels,
ready to tear apart our bodies and our dreams.
And, when they hear our screams
they say, “I had no idea.”
Plausible deniability is their way.
Men, and women too weak to lift latches,
deny that sexism is at play.
They laugh and joke at our fright.
Then simply go on their way,
as they believe it is their sole right.
Anyone who is not Christian.
Anyone who is not white.
Anyone who would lift latches
and move beyond the gate;
only does so, when they can no longer wait
for justice and progress,
which lie beyond the gate,
and the only place
where their suffering can abate.
Are those who lift latches “the enemy within”?
Lift latches in the safest space.
Then, keep the gates open.
It is not yet too late!
Vote!
annarino writes 