Let that Black Man Walk
The Black man’s stance will make you salute.
His stroll will make you stop to look.
His shoulders have a slow methodic rhythm
that allows his waist to stay in control.
His rear flank marches to an unheard cadence,
an unheard cadence that gives him soul.
His head is straight forward, but if he looks
you in the eye…look away, quickly look away.
Let that Black man walk
He lifts his rib cage and his diaphragm takes in
oxygen to let you know he’s getting ready to blow you
away; as that six pack expands out and in, and
in and out. It makes you want to scream and shout.
Put a suit and tie or a dashiki on that man’s body and…
Let that Black man walk.
With a stride filled with confidence, self-assurance, pride,
and a knowing, that his intelligence is getting ready to be
exhibited as soon as he opens his mouth.
As I walked with the tall, strong, muscular, astute Black brother,
I watched others reaction to him. Men were giving him a silent pound
and women wished he was with them and I just smiled.
Let that Black man walk.
The looks all have a special meaning whether it is a walk
towards you to whisk you away; or the look that says
nothing can get in my way. For I am strong, and today
is the day I show my power as I walk through the gates.
Let that Black man walk.
During slavery times, when hangings were common,
legs were dismembered to ensure that a Black man could
not step out of his grave. Fear of the Black man’s walk is
so unfounded, but it is certainly something to see.
The next time the opportunity prevails,
take time to look at that Black man walk.
Let that Black man walk.
By Victoria Huggins Peurifoy
Copyright (c) July 2020
Victoria Huggins Peurifoy is a seasoned sister who is working towards getting a bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership. She is a poet, spoken word artist, and author. Victoria is also Writer in Residence at Drexel University.