In the times when social tension reaches its peak and racism continues to shape relationships within the U.S. community, the need for a voice of reason that could represent the plight of those oppressed is strongly needed. Alice Walker’s “We Are the Ones We Have Been Waiting for” represents the exact statement that people need to continue building cross-cultural relationships despite the increase in adversity. Promoting both decisive political action and the focus on reconciliation between members of different races, cultures, and classes, “We Are the Ones We Have Been Waiting for” is a literary masterpiece that galvanizes the pace of social change.
Walker’s poems are laden with complex contemplations on the nuances of modern cross-cultural relationships. While acknowledging the presence of tension within the community, Walker specifies that there is a strong need in approaching the issue with sympathy and wisdom. However, as Walker notes, “Wisdom requires a pose” (49). Therefore, the calm, composed, and steady rhythm of Walker’s poems becomes the foundation for the process of healing, not only for the relationships between cultures, in general but also for each individual, in particular. With enough contemplation and self-reflection, one will be able to embrace the importance of reconciliation.
By representing both the importance of taking political and social action, as well as targeting reconciliation between the members of different political, social, and cultural groups, the poems by Walker reflect the challenges of cross-cultural interactions within contemporary society. Namely, the problems of racism, prejudice, and the failure to build an understanding of one another echo in every poem. Thus, “We Are the Ones We Have Been Waiting for” can be considered a reminder of the importance of remaining hopeful while continuing to fight.
Work Cited
Walker, Alice. We Are the Ones We Have Been Waiting for. The New Press, 2006.