This is the first poem in my spoken word album called, “The Door of Education.” I hope you enjoy!

Transcript:

Education is the key that unlocks the doors of potential and resilience.

Our teachers are the gatekeepers of this illustrious door.

A door that opens wide for some, and shuts so abruptly for others.

A door that does not speak or think, but one that has the ability to see.

A door that sees the color of one's skin.

A door that sees the color of one’s skin and equates that to their worth.

A door that has to be propelled, pushed, poked, and prodded for people like you and me.

Because although the door is only metaphorical, its consequences are very real.

To the point where teachers of all backgrounds and ethnicities have said that it may lead to lower self-esteem and prestige.

But why is this the way that it has to be?