The US Constitution
a compromise for the times,
but surely not meant
to stand for the ages
with our feet in concrete.
a document created in 1787,
by and for a flawed society
whose economy thrived
with the practice of slavery,
the subjugation of women, and
genocide of indigenous people—
some say enlightened
but not fixed in stone as
amendments along the way
accommodate evolving thought
about freedom and justice
when tensions force change,
but if this is no longer possible
the constitution dies as a guide.
when the will of the people
is suborned by minority rule
and democracy is threatened,
it’s time to stand up and save it.
by susan baukhages 11.30.22