The Price of Oppression #1759

The Price of Oppression You impose heavy rent on the poor, Exacting grain, demanding more, Though houses of stone you build so high, In them, you will not live, nor lie. You’ve planted vineyards, lush and green, Yet their sweet wine you’ll never glean, For wealth amassed on backs so bent, Brings a fate you can’t prevent. Poverty is not an accident, It’s man-made, with cruel intent, Like slavery, chains tightly bound, Apartheid’s shadow on the ground. But chains can break and shadows fade, With justice, truth, and actions made, Eradicate what’s wrought by hand, Bring hope and healing to the land. For every life unjustly drained, Through hearts of stone, love can be regained, Together, rise and make it known, A world of peace can be our own. -Steven G. Lee (June 12, 2024)