Daydreaming in the Newsroom Again

 

 

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?

 

Scroll to Top