Imagine

Imagine

Imagine walking into a space where you automatically feel out of place because nobody’s face is identifiable with your race and

Imagine walking into a store and being watched like a hawk, or getting pulled over by the cops for simply wanting to “talk” and

Can you imagine having the ambition to apply for a job position, only to later find out that your surname is under suspicion?

Now,

Imagine being called a racist name, all because your pigmentation isn’t the same, and when you finally get the courage to go to a teacher to explain, you’re the one who is blamed and

Imagine having a waste dump in your backyard or feeling anxious every time you see a security guard, or how about being suspended for having too much “attitude” on the school yard

To be Black in Nova Scotia means to work twice as hard, because no matter where you are, you’ll be wearing your identity card.

By René Boudreau | Issue 12 (2017; 2020): African Nova Scotian Women | |

About René Boudreau

René Boudreau writes: I am an African Nova Scotian woman on a journey to learning more, loving more and laughing more. I enjoy travelling because it gives me the opportunity to learn more about myself, expand my thinking and give new perspective on life. I also love spending time with my family and friends. In 2015, I graduated from Dalhousie University with a major in Sociology and a minor in Law and Society, and I currently work as a Program Coordinator at a family resource centre in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
I’ve been writing since a young age, using poetry as an outlet for healing and self-expression. I usually don’t share my poems, but as I’m getting older and growing more confident in my gifts and abilities, I’m realizing the importance of contributing my voice and lived experiences. The focus of my poetry is primarily on the topics of self-love, relationships, race and gender.
“Imagine” is my first poem to be submitted and published. This poem captures the realness of racism in Nova Scotia, using both personal experiences and experiences shared by others.
I am in the process of writing my first poetry book which will be published in the near future.

14 thoughts on “Imagine”

  1. Rajean

    Absolutely amazing work, my sister. Xo

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  2. Crystal John

    I’m so proud of the amazing young woman you are René and feel privileged to work with you.

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  3. Lisa Deyarmond

    Wonderful work Rene. You are a talented and beautiful young lady.

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  4. Helen Ann Boudreau

    Rene we are proud of you beyond words. You are a loving and beautiful daughter and your sense of humor always make us laugh (laughter is the best medicine so thank you my girl) we love you unconditionally. Mom and Dad

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  5. Twila

    Thank you for putting the things no one will say into perspective…Love the poem…

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  6. Shelley Borden

    Rene: you are kind; with a quiet demeanor. You are smart. You can do anything you set your mind to. I believe in you and I know that you believe in yourself ! The best (in and of you) is yet to come !

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  7. Jo Andrea

    Absolutely excellent. I look forward to hearing more of your words 🙂

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  8. Carla Maxwell

    Fantastic Rene…I loved your poem! Kerp writing and inspiring young lady. Your Truro community is very proud…

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  9. Michelle

    This is awesome Rene! Very well put! Look forward to more poetry from you:) xo

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  10. Kim Briand

    Rene you are a remarkable young woman.

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  11. Aj Simmonds

    This is so beautiful I love it so true

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  12. Rene

    I am overjoyed! Thank you everyone for such kind words. I look forward to sharing more of my work with you in the future.

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  13. Tracey Dorrington-Skinner

    love your work, write on sista write on!!

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  14. Sauny

    Wow!!! This is an amazing piece René.
    I am very proud of you xo.

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