PARIS
We have to create to the subject, “Who am I?”
David and Joan look at one another and smile. Joan sits next to Paris.
JOAN:
And I bet you let them know exactly who you are, didn’t you?
PARIS
Oh yeah.
David claps his hand.
DAVID
Yeahhhh, that’s my girl.
JOAN
Let’s not waste anymore time, let’s head off to school.
INT: INSIDE SCHOOL HALLWAY - MORNING
Paris walks into school like never before, back straight, head up, nothing can ruin her mood. All of a sudden
Sandy walks by.
SANDY
Hey. What’s got you so happy?
PARIS
My project is done and it’s great if I do say so myself.
SANDY
Oh no! I forgot all about that project.
The bell rings.
PARIS
Hopefully you can make it up.
Paris grabs her folder from her bag and walks to class. Her poem that was wedged in the folder, falls onto the
ground but she doesn’t notice.
SANDY
Paris, you forgot your...
Sandy quickly puts her poem into her book bag and walks to class. It is time for everyone to present their project.
Some students perform self-written songs and dances. Finally, it is Paris’ turn and for the life of her she cannot
find her poem. She is searching in and out of her bag.
MS. KEATON
We are waiting Ms. Lawrence.
Sandy raises her hand.
SANDY
May I go while Paris finds her project?
MS. KEATON
Sure Sandy.
Sandy walks to the front of the class, takes a deep breath and starts reciting Paris’ “Black Girl Magic” poem.
Word for word, only changing the title to “Magic” mimicking the way she thought Paris would recite it, extra
neck and finger movement. The sound goes mute and all you see is Sandy’s performance moment. Paris lifts her
head up the moment she hears her piece/ The camera slowly pans into Paris’ face as if no one else is here. Paris
could feel her brown melting off her bones. She wants to cry, fight, scream and run out but her body remains a
statute. When Sandy is done, the whole class stands.
MS. KEATON: (CONT’D)
OH MY GOD! That was the most amazing piece of literature I have ever heard! You have won the opportunity to
recite this piece to the entire school.
The whole class cheers and Paris tries to hide the fight inside of her.
38
african Voices