Looking at my community,
Wondering where I could help.
Trying to break through barriers,
That has tried to maintain my invisibility.
But I refuse to play the cards I’ve been dealt.
In a rigged system that is defined by wealth.
Leaving the rest in poverty,
Struggling with trauma and mental health.

As I look at my community,
And I can see the disparity.
With a division that existed for centuries.
That slaughters and enslaves,
In the name of prosperity.
With many caged or beaten,
For speaking out against normative society.

When the community looks at me,
They only see the savagery.
An inconvenient Indian,
A unsanitary revulsion,
Or as an enemy.
But if only they took the time,
To actually know me.

Looking at my community,
While covered up in chains,
Was spit out, abandoned and gaged.
Engulfed my hope like it was a flame.
Left in a darkness of guilt and shame.
While also being scapegoated as the one to blame.

So, that is why I strive for change.
No matter the obstacles,
I will progress through all this pain.
I am not an animal,
I will not be tamed.
I am human not just a number or a name.

I will fight and support those who were just like me.
It doesn’t matter if they are allies, treaty or Metis.
I will do my best to fight for thee.
For the past does not define us,
So, let’s stand together towards justice.

Our future will be bright,
So, long as am still breathing I will never lose sight.
Like my ancestors before me who sacrificed everything for our rights,
I refuse to let their sacrifice be in vain.
I refuse to stay idle.
I refuse to stay silent.
I refuse to be a victim.
But I do choose to be victor!