Subtracted

by Dee Allen, with image from the Black and Missing Foundation

Sisters aren't valued
In this world of ours
Seen nowhere on the streets
Not the hospitals, malls or bars

Because they're

Missing
Subtracted
From the city
Headcount cut down in size.

Sisters aren't respected
In this world of ours
Yet their kin are fraught w/ worry.
Long absence digs in the scars

Because they're

Missing
Subtracted
From the city
Headcount fell before our eyes.

Sisters, mothers,
Aunties, lovers

Our hearts—snatched up suddenly.

Sisters, mothers,
Aunties, lovers

Police won't help—where could they be?

[Written in response to the Black women missing and murdered in Kansas City, Missouri U.S.A.]