The Umoja Poem

Written expressly for Jubilee Arts in Baltimore, MD

Where does Umoja begin?

In a mixture of beige, brown and ebony skin?

That honors ancestors, and embraces our kin?

Or does it come from within?

What can Umoja  possibly be?

A continuous, dynamic solidarity?

In light, not despite of diversity?

When you think of Umoja, what do you see?

Can you hear Umoja’s call?

Respect and togetherness that benefits all?

For building of bridges and breakdown of walls?

And no one is made to feel small?

Does Umoja need more than just one day to do?

The 26th of December and then we are through?

Is it better year round, an Umoja pursuit,

When it’s evident in what we think, say and do?

Umoja begins with you!

© 2018 Cheryl L. Crockett