Semantics for Officers

The male officer is
Valorous, but the female is
Reckless and dangerous.
With officer safety issues.

The male officer is
Tactical and prudent,
But the female is a puss.
With officer safety issues.

Same actions. Different days.
Same training. Different genders.

They tell me it's semantics,
That I am splitting hairs.
But they call their golden boys
Sensitive when language matters.

They call it semantics.
I call it survival. Sisters,
Be silent no more. Speak
And be heard.

Stand tall and know
Your experience and training,
Your intelligence and courage
Matter just as much

As if you could pee standing up,
As if you got paid just the same.

Your badge, your honor,
They shine bright enough
To light the way...
For that young girl dreaming...

-- 08/08/2012 For my sistahs