To the sun.

Oh, the joy you carry,

When you shine upon us,

Bringing light to our hearts.

To the land.

Oh, the sustenance you bring.

A field of memory,

Joining us together in harmony.

To the people.

Oh, how your skin sparkle.

Diamonds rest within,

Shining through our complexion.

To the world.

You will cook our food.

You will dance to our music.

You will try to speak like us.

And you won’t see the Taino,

Shaping our relationship to nature.

You won’t see the Mento,

A rhythmic rose that grew from concrete.

And you won’t see us.

You won’t see our survival.

You won’t see our resilience.

You won’t see our rebellion.

My language is not for you to replicate.

It is the root that connects me to my home,

When I am across the ocean,

Walking on stolen land.

Sitting amongst thieves,

Underneath one sun.

Out of many,

One people.