There might still be rainbows and festive parades
a sun-soaked few seconds
when different feels safe to celebrate
glitter bomb moments on platform heels
hope and spirit meant to sustain.   

Shadows, though, seem near
as bright skies fade
harboring a much too familiar fear
freshly added patterns in pink and pale blue
left to smolder, fizzle, shrink back with sear.  

And in case assassination wasn’t enough
Milk’s name is ordered to disappear.
Yet, I dare say that even with storm clouds above
that ship will sparkle brightly this June. 
It must.