Thank you to City Alive and MediaDesk NM for considering this love letter to our small and BIPOC businesses that have been the most impacted by the economic downturn brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Many things have changed since the initial drafts of this poem, including the Movement for Black Lives. What I know is that Black people have thrived in the face of unsurmountable odds, which is part of our allure. The sheer endurance in our skin ... in the face malevolent intent.
“...and we will do it again.”
I personally believe that this pandemic is the result of many irresponsible decisions by humanity with respect to the health of the planet. We cannot poison the earth without expecting some of that poison to find its way back to us. We are part of this organism, not an exception to it. This virus is not malevolent, it is the result of neglect. However, families and family businesses are still hurting. Families and family businesses of color are hurting more. But we’ve always improvised...even when we shouldn’t have to, even when we aren’t getting our fair share of taxpayer sources recovery funds, both federally and locally (if certain local leaders have their way). Be as both Kenrick Lamar and Tye Tribbett have said and/or sung. We gon’ be alright.
We will do it, again.
Even when we shouldn’t have to.
Keep hope alive.