Rae Rose

You called me Redheaded Sparkle Freak.

I showed you each bruise and said, “I am limited.” 

You said, “You are worthy.”

Told me my scars were constellations.

Said, “Learn socioeconomics,

learn Hebrew — you Bombastic Bombshell Nerd.”

You said, “Be brave, I’ll hold you.

Be brave, I’ll help you with each task.

Ask, keep asking.”

I remember your grace 

on my neck

as clear as what you’re saying now:
You say, “No.”

You say — “What bruise? What scar? 
You look fine to me. Get on with it.  Like everyone.”

You say — “What we have is here. Come get it. Like Everybody Else.”

I can’t reach you

Or anything.

Who will love this body as is?
Who will love this mind as is?

My, what I have been given.

My, what you’re taking away.

This poem is in response to “As Trump Guts Support for Disabled Students, Their Families Are Fighting Back” by Eleanor J. Bader on TRUTHOUT in April of 2025.

I was a student with disabilities, but they didn’t stop me from earning my MFA—because the government gave me the support I needed, again and again. Through accessible programs, flexible learning options, and accommodations for testing, I was given the freedom to learn and grow into who I am today.

Now, both of my daughters have IEPs. Like me, they need support to thrive. And like so many others, we ask for help because we truly need it. Without the assistance I received, I wouldn’t be the person I am. I wouldn’t be here, typing this message while my daughters watch a princess movie and our new dog rests on — the table.

Government support didn’t just help me succeed—it kept me off the streets. It gave me a future.