Hope Among the Stars

What if we emigrate further 

Due North, Launch ourselves 

skyward, off the land 

of unharvested dreams...

Away from southern fields 

and yankee streets

that bear the same fruit.

What if we float,

Bodies levitating over borders, 

those imaginary veins

depleted of life, liberty...

glancing back only 

to appreciate the view.

What if we leave

Earth, its vibrant colors 

swirling violently behind us, 

Red & Blue dots colliding 

over purple mountains 

majestically dividing 

the land.

What if we stop holding 

our breath, anticipating 

change instead 

Birth anew 

a world, weightless...

Free. 
——-
Photo Credit & Inspiration: artist Kambui Olujimi
This sketch was inspired by the 1964 Zambian Space program and is part of Olujimi’s larger North Star project to challenge artistic depictions and societal perceptions of black bodies. 
North Star will create videos of black bodies experiencing weightlessness for the first time (away from the terrestrial oppression of white supremacy.)
Check out his kickstarter campaign or follow him on Instagram @kambuiolujimi for updates about the project launch. #NorthStarProject