the first time you walk down the street
and young girls
grown boys
cross the street
to get away from you

the first time you go to
Best Buy
and you notice
security following you

it’s the first time a crime
you have no clue about
is instantly pinned on you

the first time something goes missing
and they search your backpack

the first time you’re asked
to empty your pockets

the first time a friend
is told to take care
when around you
and maybe pick better friends

It’s the first time you realize
that you are the
danger
parents warn their children of
just because
the colour of your skin
that really burns