“So whatchu talkin’ about not another Black girl, G-d, trauma, purpose, racism, poem?” these poets, rightfully, ask. “Every poem I write is a Black girl poem, cause I’m Black.” These nine Black folks powerfully illustrate how America has demonized Black life and criminalized blackness. Their words ring loud and true, affirming what it means to be Black every day in America.

1. “The 7 Deadly American Sins” by FreeQuency

    

2. “Summer of 2009” by Hanif Willis-Abdurraqib

    

3. “Tell Me Again How You Don’t See Color” by Marshall Gillson

    

4. “Black Bullseye” by Twain

    

5. “Isms” by Venessa Marco, Malcolm Wicks, Jorge Brito, Mikumari and Tonya Ingram
   

    Have a poem you want added to the list? Write it in the comments below.

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