Content in partnership with CA Youth Media Network

Poem: Unapologetically Women

03.01.21
(Photo courtesy of South Kern Sol)

By Ja’Nell Gore

This poem was originally published by South Kern Sola youth-led journalism organization in Kern County in California’s Central Valley. In their stories, reporters shine light on health and racial disparities in underserved communities across Kern.


She’s a woman 

She’ll grow up, maybe get a job in her degree

Definitely get a husband

Have as many children as he pleases 

She’ll know that managing her family comes before any superficial need she thinks exists 

She knows that her duty as a woman 

Is to be a loving wife and mother

No..

Yes, I am a woman 

Yes, I will get a job in my degree

I might get a husband or even a wife 

Who’s to tell? Surely only time

For right now I’ll focus on my doctorates 

I’m thinking psychologist… but after seeing Kamala

Maybe i’ll go for president 

Don’t start with woman are too emotional 

One thing I love about us is 

We can take over the world just out of spite to sexist men

And still be seen as less emotional

See right now women on a journey of a power grab

Women have always been powerful but men tried to push us aside

Especially if we dared to be melanated at the same time 

Hold up 

We never said you couldn’t be powerful

You can do as you please in the ways that we say

You’re a great wife and mother 

It’s so nice to come home to a hot plate with my name on it after a long day

Stop reaching for these roles

It’s not as easy as you assume 

Plus men are able to think a bit more clearly 

There’s no monthly distraction 

And you’re the one that’s supposed to be more caring for the children 

That’s why you belong at home or in a more suitable position 

Try nursing or caregiving 

Excuse me?

So my personality is caring enough for a baby but not a company or country 

Please tell me you see the irony 

Shouldn’t someone in these positions in charge of 

“Laying down the law”

Be caring enough to make sure these laws are just?

In case you were wondering the answer is yes

That’s why women today are putting your old thoughts and stereotypes to rest 

Like Kamala Harris being Vice President and Alexandria Cortez putting men in their place

Making sure their sense of entitlement will no longer be tolerated 

They give hope to young women like me 

We know now better than ever before 

That we can succeed in any role we please 

I have a deeper understanding of how to take up space

Never again let a man look down on me

Or interrupt  when i’m speaking

I will forever finish my piece and expect silence to ensure you’re listening 

-Poetic Jaye

Follow more stories from South Kern Sol and our other partners in the California Youth Media Network on Twitter.

Support the Next Generation of Content Creators
Invest in the diverse voices that will shape and lead the future of journalism and art.
Donate Now
Support the Next Generation of Content Creators
Invest in the diverse voices that will shape and lead the future of journalism and art.
Donate Now