Tag: free speech

I know what it’s like to be
unfriended
boycotted
disenfranchised

I know how it feels to be
on the outside
looking in
separate, not equal

I know what they mean when they say
I’m a bleeding heart
liberal
hippie

I understand they don’t mean that
as a compliment
in a pleasant way
with respect.

It hurts when old friends pile on
hurling epithets
hurting feelings
disregarding my rights

But I won’t back down because
my voice counts
I’m not stupid
I won’t be silenced.