Don't Do It!

Don't sell untaxed cigarettes.

No, no, that's too risky.

Don't get caught in public with

A brown bag hiding whiskey.

 

Don't run from a cop or get

A bullet from behind.

Wearing a hoodie in public should not

Ever cross your mind.

 

Don't drive with a taillight out;

You'll be asking for it.

If a cop yells, "Put your hands up!"

Please do not ignore it.

 

Don't yell at policemen if you're

Living on skid row.

Don't behave in ways that might

Upset the status quo.

 

Do not be in the wrong location

At the wrong time.

Don't do anything that cops

Might take for a crime.

 

Don't stand around with groups of friends;

That wouldn't be judicious.

Don't wear loose, baggy clothes

To avoid looking suspicious.

 

Don't break down late at night

And knock on doors in need.

Do not drive your car in town

If you're carrying weed.

 

Since the police most likely will not

Cut you any slack,

Don't do ANY of the above,

ESPECIALLY if you're black.

 

(4-11-15)