Respect is not a crown - By Vanessa Mirembe Nabukenya

Written By: Vanessa Mirembe Nabukenya

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Vanessa Mirembe Nabukenya presents a powerful entry titled "Respect is not a crown" in the Poetry category for the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar. Her poignant work delves into the themes of respect, gender injustice, and societal norms. Through her writing, Vanessa voices a strong critique of the systemic issues faced by women, making it a thought-provoking piece in this prestigious platform celebrating creative expression from around the globe.

About the Work

In "Respect is not a crown," Vanessa Mirembe Nabukenya crafts a vivid narrative that challenges patriarchal structures and the societal devaluation of women. The poem is rich with emotive language and evocative imagery, expressing frustration and anger towards the injustices and disrespect women endure. Vanessa’s work resonates with a call for change, emphasizing that respect is something to be earned and reciprocated, not demanded.

Respect is not a crown

Original Submission by Vanessa Mirembe Nabukenya

Respect is not a crown

I’ve always heard them say

Men deserve everything bad and more

It never occurred to me then

That I’d look back at that saying

and whisper — I couldn’t agree more

I don’t know which event enraged me more

Was it my friend, shamed for the consequences

Of a man she trusted—

Only for him to stab her in the chest

Look her dead in the eye and disgrace her

and expect it to be okay?

Or was it a brave mother who couldn’t be laid to rest

Even after the system had failed her

Because the men made the law

and hence she had to stay

Not out of care but to prove they can

Maybe it is the bastards

who look at my curvaceous friend

Like she is prey,

an object to play with

a fantasy to wank to

The ones meant to protect and guide her

yet all they say

“Give us a chance to see what you look like and have a field day”

Perhaps it was the audacious “religious leaders” in Gambia

Who, like men for centuries

Use their authority to dictate women’s bodies

Hiding behind a good- intentioned facade,

But would go up in arms if such inhumane pain were legalized upon them

Maybe it was the man old enough to be my father

Who scuffled home after me

despite my pleas to let me be

It has never been about the clothes—

he chased after me in my dera

Was it the teenage rascals at school

who yelled in objectification?

Or the nuisance that ogled,

then let his intrusive thoughts win

and grabbed my ass?

Perhaps it was my “friend” who refused to leave my hostel room

unless I helped him “calm down”

“It’s your fault it happened.”

Please spare me the victim blaming

The women who back this folly up infuriate me most

It is the 21st century—

I should be free to wear whatever makes me happy

But even if I were covered from head to toe

it wouldn’t protect me

But hey, what would I know?

Boys will be boys.

And for the rest, God save us all

Don’t get me started on the weasels

who abuse their own seed

The thought makes me sick

And for the machos whose only language is fists

They deserve nothing less than hell’s heat

My heart bleeds for all the beautiful queens

Who have suffered at the hands of men’s greed

Thank heavens karma is a bitch

they’ll get what they deserve, you’ll see

Crazy how even they will choose the bear

Then run and yell

“Put some respect on our names”

Respect is not a crown you demand

It is one you earn

and accord to others

And until men learn that truth

The world will never be safe

for you and me

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a celebrated event that showcases diverse and innovative voices from around the world. It provides a platform for writers and poets to express their creativity and share their unique perspectives on global issues. The competition invites participants across various categories, fostering a vibrant community of literary talents.

Thank you, Vanessa Mirembe Nabukenya, for sharing your compelling poem "Respect is not a crown" with the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your work resonates deeply, highlighting critical issues with eloquence and conviction. We appreciate your contribution and the powerful message you bring to this esteemed platform.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.