Harry Seymour

The Great Divide

On January 20th, 2025
MLK and DJT converge
In a paradoxical collision
On what it means to be free
“Make America great again”
The antithesis of MLK’s dream
Diversity, equity, inclusion
Now under siege

On Inauguration Day
Democracy affirmed
By a peaceful transfer of power
The oath of Donald John Trump
“To solemnly swear…
To preserve, protect
And defend the Constitution…”
Brings joy to many
Yet leaves nearly as many
Disbelieving in his sincerity

On Martin Luther King Day
Exposes the nation’s great divide
One side devoted to social justice
The other seeks to suppress it
If here today, MLK might say
The struggle ebbs and flows
Relentless as the tide
Fought every second of each day
His spirit and fire still inspire
An unwavering commitment
To a promise of liberty
Equity, and justice for all
No matter who’s President.

Comments

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 01/16/2025 - 15:40

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Thomas Roeper Amherst

Great picture--I am glad the black has the upper hand.
It is frightening to me that it is so acceptable to express anti-DEI feelings so openly.

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 01/16/2025 - 17:30

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Donna B OB/NJ

Amen!

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 01/17/2025 - 13:40

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Jill de Villiers Northampton Ma

There is indeed great irony in the timing on the 20th! The poem speaks about it with caution and sensitivity. We have to hope that one of these men has a longer arc in American history.

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 01/17/2025 - 16:08

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Gil MV

If not now . . . When? Believe in the goodness that surrounds us. It is always there . . . All we have to do is put our attention on the beauty that each day gifts us with.

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sat, 01/18/2025 - 16:14

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Gerald Davis Oakland, CA

I wish I could share your hopefulness.

"There are difficult days ahead" -- MLK

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 01/19/2025 - 18:04

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Elaine Cawley Weintraub West Tisbury

Beautiful Harry. We must travel hopefully but it’s going to be a bumpy road.

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