“We’ve identified issues with your

Temperament and demeanor”

Are code words for the sexism

That brands women’s anger and calls for fairness

And justice

As signs of disobedience.

The policing of women’s words

And women’s actions

And women’s tears

And women’s rage

And women’s bodies

And women’s spirits

Affirms the oft unspoken desire

Of our institutions and personal beliefs

That men should be able to say what they want

And act how they want

Express how they want

Exist how they want

Take up space how they want

And be treated with the respect that they

Would never give to someone

Who won’t smile at them

Because she refuses to keep her mouth shut

When she sees how badly he behaves.

Dear sisters

Stand your ground

Carve out space for yourself

And when you forget how to

Hold your head high and

Carry yourself with pride,

Remember, beloved,

That the risen Jesus

First appeared to the women.