I beat the ground here with fists and with tears
Never to make a wrong a right and never to lose sight
Got to remember the stories and continue the fight

I beat the ground
At the base of the locust tree
So that the ghost of the strange fruit can be free

I beat the ground with marching feet
Every step closer to equality
Look at the black and white photos of the call for dignity

I beat the ground
With peace as the gravel cuts the hand the knuckles bleed
Who died here children, women or men as we hear the stories again

I beat the ground with my mind
Looking past political lies freedom is my right
Ignorance is no excuse when you break the rules

I beat the ground
With optimism hearing the echoing sounds of Martin and Malcolm
A definite dream striving for its reality

I beat the ground with my voice
I demand the right to a choice
To hear the stories of injustice

I beat the ground
To never forget
The stories should not end with regret, but with how to forgive


©Copyright Thomas Dooley 2020