'Something' That Identifies A Progress Made Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

No decade will 'ever',
Come close to what the 70's...
Exposed to implement,
With a diversity to create.
And with 'daring' a Blaxploitation Era,
Stomped on myths and pretensions...
As to how the eclectic black race,
Was to be interpreted.

Today with that diversity all but camouflaged,
There are more blacks who seem afraid...
To accept and be the people they are.
So many today have less identity...
Yet amongst themselves,
Share an abundance of disrespect.
Gone is that dignity to express that diversity.
By those whose only wish is to impress.
With 'things' to purchase that has gotten them into debt.

Innovators in fields of entertainment no longer exist.
Many wish to claim their creations,
Are not snipped to clip and plagiarize...
From pioneers they would rather dismiss.
And all for quick buck to get two minutes of fame.
Although there are exceptions...
With a very few that are obviously at the top of their game.
And on one hand I 'could' mention them by name.

Even to say there is a black president in the U.S.A.
Should be a highlight that reflects much pride.
But so many addicted to imitate and not be imitated,
To stimulate with a emulating those of minds long gone.
It seems only those blacks with their minds intact,
Are those who have aged to wonder 'what's going on'...
In the minds of the heads of those embarrassed,
By those who would rather connect their ethnicity...
With a pride shown in the wearing of dreads.

'Something' that identifies a progress made and acceptance.
An awakening of an enlightened consciousness.
Something that addresses a faith and hope connected,
Without a seeking of approval with a wish to be left deceived...
By those already who have them on their knees.
Wanting them to believe they are subservient.
And for some reason this activity seems to be highly worshipped.
With an appeasing to those who oppress.