Language is a barometer of hatred and prejudice. We must be
vigilant in recognizing and discontinuing the use of words with
which we oppress each other.)
When you speak you often use
Some racist word or sexist phrase
That makes me stop you in your tracks
To note the error of your ways
And I know you find it boring
But it seems to me the only way
To correct you, to object to
The hurtful things you say
Right the wrongs of human rights
The risk you take can save a life
Silence keeps us all in darkness
We can't change it overnight
But we can shed a little light
Be political, not polite
I cannot be satisfied
Knowing just how much you care
I want an ally with a voice
Defending me when I'm not there
'Cause being actively supportive
Is the greatest gift that you could give
By demanding understanding
We can change the world in which we live
Words can hurt, words can heal
Make us think, make us feel
And they're every bit as deadly
As a bullet tearing through the land
For if our words create the climate
Then the blood is on our hands
Every time we hear a joke
That takes a shot at someone else
If we speak up for their rights
We are speaking for ourselves
'Cause we will never have true freedom
'Til everyone of us is free
From the silence and the violence
That's become our history
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