as the outrage —

steeped in sorrow —

escalates, our furious nation

recoils in horror & disgust

but with resolve

tinged fire-hot in anger.

*

we spit in the faces

of this twisted evil,

these masked identities

protected & nurtured

into a deepening violence

by an unholy malevolence.

*

until such actions cease,

our voices will grow only louder

and more fierce.

for what is right, for justice

for Alex and Renee,

brave & strong & sweet.