No Apology Poem by Uche Nwanze

I refuse to apologise for being proud because I'm African and Black.
I refuse to apologise for being blunt, I rather be blunt than playing to the gallery.
I refuse to apologise for fighting for my rights, I' rather not be a hypocrite.
I refuse to apologise for demanding excellence 'cos I ain't satisfied in my comfort zone.
I refuse to apologise for aiming for the top, 'cos average is not where I want to be.
I refuse to apologise for asking for the best, 'cos I detest mediocrity.
I refuse to apologise for blowing my trumpet, I' rather be an agama Lizard than give room for flattery.
I refuse to apologise for striving to be number one, I never want to play second fiddle.
I refuse to apologise for staying back home, rather than being a second class citizen abroad.
I refuse to apologise for speaking the truth, it is more economical than the lie.
I refuse to apologise for my insurrection, rather than stand aloof and watch evil triumph.
I refuse to apologise for being obstinate, it is better than being a coward.
I refuse to apologise for failing, it is better than not trying.
I refuse to apologise for being Me, any other version of me is flawed.
I refuse to apologise for standing up for justice, I rather not kowtow to your tyranny.
I refuse to apologise for using my pen, ' cos my pen is mightier than a thousand swords.