Writing: ‘The People of Our Countries’ by Emily Rodriguez-Ibanez
This piece placed second for high school writing submissions in the 2022 Ánimo Voices Writing and Art Competition, which invited students to respond to the open prompt “I’ve Got Something to Say.” The competition is an opportunity to motivate, recognize, and celebrate our strong student voices through writing, spoken word, and art.
By Emily Rodriguez-Ibanez
Ánimo Pat Brown Charter High School
The People of Our Countries
The women of our countries
Are forced to give up their opportunity to thrive
They spend their hours working behind the machines In order to support their family of nine
The children of our countries
sell flowers on the side of the street
Giving up their childhood and not attending school
In order to make ends meet The men of our countries
Work hours on end for minimum pay Using their rough hands to prosper
Not knowing if they have enough for the next day
But I've got something to say
The people of our countries
Who are hardworking with no guarantees
Fight an endless war
In the attempt of escaping to the land of the free Still they always hear the same song
They risk their lives for safety yet they are told Go back to where you belong
The people of our countries sing a never ending song
The wails of children in detention centers
Hours under sun causing pure agony
Until we fight for our immigrant brothers and sisters
The world will strain further from harmony