POEM: I am an Engineer who happens to be a woman who is Black

Engineering I loved it, but it did not love me back. Is it because I am a woman or because I am Black? These are traits, by which I am defined. Labeled, placed in a box, I have been confined. My intellect, my own abilities, I am beginning to doubt. To gain back self-worth, I must get out. Others too, sad to say, will face this same dilemma, before graduation day. Is this degree worth it? Am I the right fit? They will ask, before they finally quit. Give up on a dream, a path they took. Discouraged from persisting, simply because of how they look. Engineers we need more. .. in the USA; this we hear the privileged say; as they push the " other " away. What will it take to get more Americans to innovate? Unconditional love? A little less hate? Recognition and acceptance that we are all great. Giving everyone a chance to participate. Recruitment and retention. .. buzz words administrators speak. Yet their efforts are far too weak. Inclusion, acceptance, and diversity too; but only for those who are most like you. Deny who I am. Ashamed of who I was born to be? Just to earn an engineering degree and to be doubted daily. Even by those with less education than me. Contribute to society & make a difference in this life; have kids, get married, and become a wife. This is the choice many have made; to avoid heartache if they had stayed. Stayed in a career, as an unwanted guest; even when they have given their best; EXHAUSTED. .. so they decide to rest.