They called us lazy

They called us lazy
When we asked for better pay.
So that we could feed our families
And keep a roof over their heads.

They called us lazy
When we ask for an 8 hour day.
So we could see our families
And have time for more than work and bed.

They called us lazy
When we were laid off
So the execs could give themselves a raise
And claim they were cutting costs all around.

They called us lazy
When we couldn’t find work
Despite looking for years and days
When there was just nothing to be found.

They called us lazy
When we were kicked out of our homes,
Even though we’d lived up
To our end of the pact.

They called us lazy
When we asked for help
From programs we’d set up
And paid for with hard work, in fact.

They called us lazy
When we finally spoke out
And came together as one
And cried “No more!
This is our country!
And we’re taking it back!”