ALSphere Foundation
I am not ashamed to drape a “hijab” or a “burqa”
Though it masks and protects my dignity, I am not a coward
Please do not stereotype me as submissive or weak
If I choose to wear it, I am not oppressed but empowered
I am not ashamed to belong to the LGBT community
Don’t label me as queer or ever doubt my devotion
Don’t silence my voice but embrace me as I blossom
So what if I am a shade different from you but have similar emotions
I am not ashamed to step out of home in a short dress
But how do I avoid being a victim of the patriarchal society
Stop judging me by the length of my casual attire
Call me a feminist if you may, as I give importance to my vanity
I am not ashamed to be unable to converse in English
I stand strong irrespective, breaking the barrier of language
By safeguarding the purity and pride of my freedom
As my mother tongue and culture I proudly patronage
I am not ashamed to be born imperfect
Adorned on my brows are a few weary wrinkles
Freckles and blemishes don’t mar my eternal beauty
That’s graced with a crooked smile and eyes that forever twinkle
