What I See In My Neighborhood

In my neighborhood I see graffiti

two different races running the streets.

Cliques of Black and Latinos

gathered at the park

waiting for trouble to start.

Youngsters running from the police

some for doing wrong,

others because of police brutality.

Gunshots here, there, and around the block.

It was a 14 year old shooting

at his enemies with a 40 Glock.

Now the kid shot is dead

and the 14 year old caught at the spot.

Walls down alleys covered with gang graffiti,

other hoods crossing it out.

Youngsters running down Lake Street,

years later ending up in Stillwater, Oak Park or St. Cloud

for assault, murder or a robbery charge.

These are the things I saw while growing up.

 

MC-C