If I were publisher,
After school programs would fight job training
For front page spreads.
I’d treat youth mentors like pro athletes.
Give every elder a politician’s prestige.
Teach history every day
Not just as a footnote to holidays.
Profiles would pinpoint lessons,
Not intoxicate you with charm.
More old money education.
Less new money fantasy.
If I were publisher,
I would trade my soul for trust,
Not sell it for banners.
Entice readers to invest in themselves,
Not dupe them with sensations.
Encourage expanding minds
Past a 7th grade reading level.
Covet and cultivate our youth.
More workshops.
Fewer fancy dinners.
More visits to schools.
Less posing with kids for photo-ops.
If I were publisher,
You’d never hear,
“There aren’t enough Black writers.”
If I were publisher…
Would you buy my paper?