He Married White

(with many apologies to Mr. Schuyler)

By Marcus B. Christian

I've fought my way up to the top

I've proved that black blood has the "stuff,"

I have prevailed -- but now I stop --

I'm getting out -- I've had enough.

Insulted, outraged day by day,

Black sheep against white snow, we stand --

Targets for all that comes our way --

Sure marks for each uplifted hand.

I've heard white lawmakers who said

They didn't give a "tinker's dam."

I've seen the harlot in her bed

Show far more strength than Uncle Sam:

She gave to her illegal brood,

For all the laughing gods to see,

What Uncle Sam through gold and blood

Could never give to darkskinn'd me.

I'm getting out -- let some folks blame --

Today I even up the score,

And henceforth, he who bears my name

Shall truly say, "I'm black no more."

*   *   *   *   *