Debate for Peace

Part of the Writers Matter program led by Professor Bob Vogel

I Am From / Dana Khatsevich

If you ask me where am I from

I’ll remain silent and won’t answer at all

I would be staring right into the void

Afraid to say something and regret afterward. 

If you ask me where am I from

I’II imagine all the hurting souls

Screaming and prying trying to go back to their homes

Covered in blood and wounds

Afraid to move to not get shot

If you ask me where am I from 

I’II be frozen and won’t move at all 

I would try to avoid my thoughts 

Because I know deep down 

That they are just lost hope

If you ask me where am I from

I want to shout out the name of my home 

I want to say 

I am from a beautiful place

with a loving community and a welcoming hand.

I am from a beautiful place 

With shining smile and unforgettable face

The place that I should never be afraid to represent

but what can I say, I’m afraid of everyone to find that I am from Israel