Don't

Trigger Warning: Sexual Assault

Don’t look at me

with those blue bred eyes

My ancestors cry

as you colonize my soul

because you adore my culture

Don’t touch my skin

the flesh too soft

for your rough assault

Exotic enough

for your submissive ideal

Don’t say my name

mispronounce every curve

of the vowels and consonants

Expect me to smile

at your “harmless” naivety

Don’t tell me my worth

and anticipate my gratitude

when your opinion is void

Submissively present myself

whenever you want me

Don’t give them your time,

your thoughts, your energy

No settling as a shiny, exotic token

Immerse in your own culture and

bathe in positive words unspoken

- Cathay Lau

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Cover photo source: Laura Karp Lugo