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Mala Joy Tripathi

Call me by My Name


A word, a phrase

A word or phrase that doesn’t ignite

A word or phrase that people can recite


People call me physically,

“Lightskin girl” “Curly-haired girl” Green-eyed girl”

Girl yes, I am, She/her

But the physical interests lack the intellectual, emotional, connections —

leaves feelings of cheapness.

“His girlfriend”, “her friend.”

Labels are correct, but the identity does not exist.

Identity is stripped when grouped in with others,

dignified to be looped with woman of color, but there is more to my hue —

intellectual, emotional, unique.

I am a garland of flowers, they say —

garland of Asian and African roots

surrounded by the garden of colors,

yet, always finds the ones that are the most unique.


My name is what portrays me, call me by my name.





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