In a world where we often hide behind layers of suits and smiles, what does it truly mean to be seen? This poignant poem dives into the unsettling reality of prejudice that can linger beneath the surface, even in our modern landscape. It tells the tale of a college dean—dapper in his three-piece suit—who faces a moment of stark discomfort in an elevator. With a striking image of a woman turning away upon seeing him, the poem forces us to reckon with questions of race, fear, and implicit bias. As readers, we may find ourselves pondering: how far have we really come since the turbulent days of the Civil Rights Movement, or are we still echoing the shadows of those past injustices in even the simplest of interactions? Given the backdrop of 2015 in St. Louis, Missouri, this piece serves as both a mirror and a lens, reflecting our societal challenges while urging us to confront our own perceptions. Join me as we explore these depths and consider the layers of our shared human experience. LEARN MORE.
There was a college Dean
who always wore
a three piece suit.
He was 42 and 6 ft. tall.
One day he went
to visit a friend.
He was alone
in the elevator
when a woman appeared
before the door closed
She saw the man
and turned away.
The man was black
and she was afraid
Was it 1955
in Little Rock, Arkansas?
No! it was 2015
in St. Louis, Missouri
