Ay Morenita
(Oh Little Brown Girl)
by Aila Shai Castane

Ay Morenita
When will you realize that your hips don’t lie?
Your oppressors do
They try to suppress your thighs
Like you ain’t got the moves
Every time you dance
They get confused
How a Little Brown Girl
Could be so smooth

Ay Morenita
When will you realize that your skin is gold?
Sweet like caramelo
Your flavor is bold
They try to bland your being
And whitewash your soul
But you, Little Brown Girl,
You break the mold

Ay Morenita
When will you realize that your arms are home?
Don’t be ashamed of their shape
That’s poison for your dome
Embrace the fact that your embrace is so warm
Little Brown Girl
You are a quiet storm

Ay Morenita
When will you realize the power of your breasts?
The strength of your nature
Lies on your chest
Your feminine figure
Causes them to lose their breath
Little Brown Girl
You are so filled with life and zest

Ay Morenita
When will you realize the magic of your hair?
The tighter the curl
The harder they stare
The bounce of your ‘fro
Cannot be compared
Little Brown Girl
You have so much flair

Ay Morenita
When will you realize the perfection of your shape?
The silhouette of your behind
Is purposely ornate
The geography of your curves
Is a series of perfect lines
Little Brown Girl
You are one of a kind

Ay Morenita
Turn off the TV
Close your eyes to propaganda
So your mind can be free
Love the body that you’re in
Look in the mirror so you can see
That you, Little Brown Girl
Are who you’re supposed to be