Poem: A Celebration of Voices

A Celebration of Voices

Hundreds gather for a concert in the city
to celebrate trees
while others gather in the forest, to protest destruction.
As the chainsaws advance
we form a human chain around each tree
sing our songs, chant for survival.
Together, we could save the forest.
Hundreds gather at a luncheon
to celebrate the achievements of women
while others gather in the streets to protest destruction
of the rights fought for by women.
As the Politicians advance
we form a human chain around the city
sing our songs, chant for survival.
Together, we could save our rights.
Hundreds gather at a city hall
to celebrate cultural diversity
while others gather at a suburban hall to protest
the spread of racism.
As the Far Right advances
we form a human chain of strength
sing our songs, chant for survival.
We let our oppressors know that we have a voice too
and we will not go away.
Together, we could be stronger, louder —
together, we would survive.
We are like the element and the fan —
we can work independently
but together we can spread the heat
for the benefit of all.

By Maureen Sexton

From GLW issue 287