Oakland Street Poetry: These Black Hands

Where are all the black construction workers?

These hands,
These black hands,
These are strong black hands
That can swing hammers
And pound nails with precision.

These hands,
These black hands,
These are strong black hands
That can climb scaffolds,
Wear tool belts
And use tools with accuracy.

These hands,
These black hands,
These are strong black hands
That can build strong things,
Strong things that will last and endure.
Yes, these strong black hands can.

These hands,
These black hands,
These are strong black hands
That can be put to use anytime,
If not but for...


— Unknown


These Black Hands was found outside an Oakland construction site during the 2017 holiday season. The site was quiet on this day but the street poetry posted for all to see roared for action.

Street poetry found at construction site in Oakland, California.