Creditworthy
I was born in America or
2004 Ann-Marie Brigil
at least that's what they told me,
An American citizen living in a democracy.
But when I went to the bank to get a loan,
guess what they told me?
We're sorry miss, but you're not creditworthy.
Not creditworthy, what are you talking about,
whadoya' mean, who me?
I want a piece of the dream
in this land of opportunity.
What do I have to do mister banker man,
please can't you tell me?
All he said was "I'm sorry miss,
but you're just not creditworthy."
I've been paying taxes upon taxes,
no refunds but more taxes
This news I am receiving
is just too difficult to fathom.
I have to be missing something sir,
this really just can't be.
You see, I've been working
my butt off since I was 15.
Let me tell you a story . . . . .
Shackled, gagged and bound
on a boat they were thrown,
My people were taken from
a land of their own.
Brought to a country where
they were told they would be
Someone's slave and forced
to give up their identity.
They worked in the fields,
created things of alabaster
Just to be pawns for
the big house's master.
Their blood stained the soil,
their tears irrigated the land
They strived and hoped for
that thing called freedom.
They scrubbed toilets and floors,
washed windows and clothes,
Left behind their own children
just to take care of yours.
They cooked and cleaned
your houses day after day
All the while knowing that
God would make a way.
...That things would work out
and everything would be better
EQUALITY is what they wanted,
these weren't just letters.
They told us were stupid,
no good - just plain dumb.
Laborers and field hands
is what they wanted us to become.
But we strive for excellence,
wanted to be all that we could be.
Not allowed formal education,
but we taught ourselves to read.
We had to learn better so
our children could be better,
No one would help us,
so we relied on each other.
My people were reliable and
relentless in their endeavors.
They died wanting the best for
us so we could help out our brothers.
Now, you've benefited from our blood,
our sweat and our tears.
You've had good maids, nannies
and drivers throughout all the years.
I have dreams and aspirations,
more than I can envision,
That you and your bank can
help bring to fruition.
Mister banker man . . . .
Our story isn't over by any means,
And I refuse to let you destroy my dreams.
We've proven ourselves as you can plainly see,
Now approve my loan please and stamp it CREDITWORTHY.
