Ms. Duncan Reflects:
“The poem to me tells of a young man who for some should not be noticed,
who dreams of being included, and not judged by the color of his skin.
Even back then, we strived for equality and acceptance in a world that
makes us feel like we don’t belong, but he said, ‘Tomorrow I’ll be at the table,’
and ‘Besides, they’ll see how beautiful I am and be Ashamed!’ This poem
tells us that though I may be different, I am important!”
“I, too, sing America.
I am the darker brother.
They send me to eat in the kitchen
When company comes,
But I laugh,
And eat well,
And grow strong.
Tomorrow,
I’ll be at the table
When company comes.
Nobody’ll dare
Say to me,
“Eat in the kitchen,”
Then.
Besides,
They’ll see how beautiful I am
And be ashamed—
I, too, am America.”
