Are You Sure?

Are you sure?


Trying to buy a tie
Sales woman clearly sees us at the counter

It’s obvious by the way she turns away 

Cheerfully she says “Can I help you?”  to a white customer

We move closer, ”excuse me, we’re ready”

She pretends not to hear but I know she does 


I’m filled with vengeance rage 

I’ve never felt this anger before 

I look at Damon 

He just wants to leave, not bring attention

We casually walk out of the store


You didn’t call her out! We should demand service!

Damon says, I don’t want to deal with her right now

If I got mad at ignorant people, I’d be mad all the time

I’m not in the mood 

Let’s just go somewhere else 


We could have caused a scene

Forced her to ring us up 

Demanded to speak with a manager 

But...would a manager believe us?

We couldn’t prove if they ask

Are you sure?


When I tell my friends the story, I see why Damon’s tired

No way, that wouldn’t happen in Portland!

Are you sure she heard you?

Are you sure she saw you?

Are you sure it was racism?


To my friends, 

You don’t WANT to believe racism exists

That’s why you ask 

Are you sure?


It’s maddening to be questioned

I know exactly what I experienced 

Don’t ask me “are you sure?”


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