DOMINGO
New Mexico, 1680
Some of us—mestizos from villages
far to the south—join a rebellion,
fighting on the side of the brave people
of los pueblos, instead of supporting
wealthy noblemen who treat us
like beasts of burden.
With new hope for life as free men
instead of servants, we help send Spain’s army
fleeing back across the same desert
they thought they’d conquered
so completely
long ago.
Choosing sides is not too difficult
when my only possibilities are misery
or hope.