In the light of recent events here are a couple from 2 years ago (included in A Day At A Time In Rhyme) and, somehow, even more relevant now.
October 14th
COWARD
I was going to write
something
about racial stereotyping
something
about Rupert Bear
but then
I tied my pen in knots
trying not to write
something
that would offend
someone
somewhere
somehow
some way
it all seems
so clear
so straightforward
until the words
are out
into the light
of doubt
and you run away
in fright
of being
misconstrued
button your lip, girl,
no one really wants
to hear
any of that
from you.
June 23rd CAREFUL, THEY MIGHT HEAR YOU silence
it’s the best option now
better not trip over your
tongue
shut up
about China
about gender
about cultural distinctions
facing extinction
subjugation to the undistinguished bland
shut up
about safety
variety
propriety
imperialism past
and the oh-so-frightening present
silent
as the flow of money
through the internet
watchdogs crouch
in cyber corners
armed to the tweet
ready for the glitch
a whiff of bitch
a chance to snitch
at your expense
to pull the holier-than-thou card
but not so holy
not allowed
not out loud
except to sanction
every code
every way to say
it’s still okay
to shut a woman’s trap
because a HE said so
long ago
centuries back
silence
it’s the best option now
even for those
without a voice
to make that choice
self-censure
and the coward’s ploy
retreat from noise.
See also poems read out loud at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9uLwxslE_VQ-fu-Dw6gdIA/playlists
Also shop at: https://www.amazon.com.au/Day-At-Time-Rhyme/dp/0648083861/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=A+Day+At+A+Time+In+Rhyme+Jane+Clifton&qid=1572053238&sr=8-1