I have had good guys speak over me

I have had bad guys speak over me

I have been dismissed by professors

I have been questioned in my work environment

I have smiled while being harassed

I have apologized for everything

I refuse

I am here to take up space.

I will not move out of your way

You will move out of mine

I will not be interrupted

You will learn to watch your tongue

I will not contain myself

You will keep your hands and your vile words to yourself

I am here to take up space

__

featured artwork : Portrait of the Artist’s Sister-in-Law, Adele Harms by Egon Schiele