My Rights

by Jim Tabb

I have a right to work

But I have no ID,
No phone,
No residence,
No transportation,
No references,
No clean clothes,
No place to wash or shave.  And if I do find work,
I can’t cash my check.

I have a right to sleep

But no shelter is available,
and the city took my bedding.

I have a right to eat

But I have no food or money.

I have a right to rest

But not in public places.

I have a right to use a bathroom

But no public toilets are available.

I have a right to vote

But I can’t register without an address.

I have a right to sing

But when I do I’m cited for public disturbance.

I have a right to use a library

But I can’t get a card,
Can’t check out a book,
Can’t go on the Internet,
Without an ID and Address.

I have a right to live

But not in Marietta.

I’m Homeless

At least I still have that Right!

They are still out there

 

 

(updated from a June post)