But aren’t all children allowed to have a bad day?

In the hallowed halls of McAuliffe International School,

Whispers circulate about a seclusion room.

Echoing notions from a political fray,

Defending the one in the very same way.

“This is a witch hunt,” they cry, “ The conspiracies aren’t true!”

Yet, the talking points hint at a view askew.

Defending a man, a leader misguided,

While children of color are punished and silenced.

When they say “these kids,” we know who they mean,

Black and brown children whose dreams they demean.

But let me paint you a tale so divine,

Of these very children who will rise and shine.

Scientists, soldiers, creators of lore,

Teachers, thinkers, and so much more.

They’ll dream Dr. King’s dream, breaking the curse,

Walk Malcolm’s path and sing Mahalia’s Verse.

Yet, some aim to vilify when they stumble or sway,

But aren’t all children allowed to have a bad day?

A narrative of white supremacy looming so large,

Children were tried and convicted with no proper charge.

But remember, the schools that lead with love pave the way,

Treating every child precious, come what may.

If every child isn’t your heartfelt song,

Perhaps Denver Public Schools isn’t where you belong.

For these children embody dreams of the past,

Ancestors hopes that forever will last.

No one’s above the policies that we have established,

Locking away our children in rooms is banished.

If you exploit their innocence, we’ll seek you out,

Because in this district black lives matter, without a doubt.

It pains my heart to know a child was in a cage,

Viewed as a spectacle, fury and rage.

Behind glass, like creatures in zoos, they’re kept,

While tears are shed, and many nights wept.

But change is coming; a new day dawns bright,

For every child will shine and take their rightful light.

The city of Denver will stand tall and proud,

Lifting every voice, breaking every shroud.

No longer in shadows, no more silent cries,

Together we rise to reclaim the skies.

The narrative of old it starts to wane,

As unity, love, and hope remain.

No longer shackled, no chains to bind,

For every child deserves peace of mind.

The pain and the hurt, they’ve been profound,

But in the heart of the city, a pulse is found.

A rhythm of change, a beat of the new,

For every shade of color, every hue.

To the leaders of old, blinded by fear,

Know that the dawn of a new era is near.

For our children are strong, resilient, and wise,

They’ll surmount every challenge and always rise.

So here in Denver, let the story be told,

Of a community strong and a spirit bold.

For black lives matter, today and always,

In our actions, our words, and all our days.

In this city of dreams, where mountains touch skies,

We pledge to ensure, every learner thrives.

• Auon’tai Anderson, Vice President of the Denver School Board