Antifa, dressed in black, stalked along the fringes,
Seeking cracks in the cohesion of peaceful protest.
Police had learned not to strike when
Batons, firehoses and attack dogs
Fueled even greater dissent.

Fifty-five years ago we followed
Those who came before with sit-downs,
Boycotts, mass meetings, taking to the streets.
Pledges of non-violence were made,
Support groups were formed.

Marching with flowers in hand, we endured
Bullets and tear gas, jeers telling us to leave.
Refusing to wage war would not be tolerated.
Not at first. Not until too much blood was
Spilled, too many lives ruined.

Democracy has always been at stake.
Protection for those who belong as much
As those born to privilege and opportunity
Must exist for all of us to flourish.
The promise of America is ours to keep.