We, the people of one face,
will not wear masks
not for peace,
not for praise,
not to be spared by silence.

We are carved from the same fire,
lit by a single flame of truth.
Let the wind howl,
let the crowds vanish,
let even love turn its back
still, we will not cover what is real.

If it costs us everyone,
so be it.
Better to walk alone in light
than march together in shadow.

Yes
that is us.
Unhidden.
Unashamed.
Unmasked.