Is it justice if we live in detention?

Angela Du

The affection that they used to show,

When we tried migration they built us homes,

We made an objection, but nonetheless we were trapped,

Hidden away in cages built in moderation

All for their own satisfaction.

Then they had their motions, people taking action.

Justice for animals

But is it justice if we live behind glass and in detention?

But then they questioned, “What about animal shows?”

Limber monkeys and burly elephants performed reluctantly

We were sent away for standing ovations,

Our “masters” filled with emotions of elation.

But we weren’t elated.

Instead we were forced into uncomfortable positions,

We probably looked like mutations,

And from our homes we faced eviction.

Then they tried to find a solution,

Made us into their own creation,

They saw our agitation,

Thought it was adoration and made even more wretched assumptions.

We took it and bore it for a little while,

But soon it started to taste like bile.

They thought our frowns were just disguised and costumed smiles,

But here’s the truth.

We’re sick and tired of being treated as second-class living things,

We’re sick and tired of treating you as our queens and kings,

We’re sick and tired of losing,

So maybe make a change.

Maybe that isn’t completely in your range,

But at least fix the deforestation

and take matters into your own hands,

Where they always should’ve belonged.