I don’t want to live in fear,
I don’t want to walk with my head bent,
Looking at my toes
In a crowded street,
While others admire the clear blue sky.
I don’t want an escort every time I leave my house,
to ferry me after dark
I don’t want those untoward nudges, those piercing glares
when I board a bus or enter a room
I want to breathe free,
I want dignity.
