In this 5th hour

I feel the need to say

I am a black woman

With black children

Who matter to me.

In this, the 5th hour…

It is important that you see

My black family is just as important as all you have produced from your belly.

In this the 5th hour, I want to scream…

Stand with me

Reassure me that I am worthy of the very breath I breathe.

In this 5th hour, please I beg of thee…