The Promised Land

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They're dying by the hundreds every year
Or living lives of suffering and fear
Poorly dressed and poorly fed
Some lying helpless in their beds
They're dying by the hundreds every year
The doctors say it's the best that can be done
How could they function in the outside world alone
Doomed to lead lives of regret
But in here they're safe and their needs are met
The doctors say it's the best that can be done
The promised land is just beyond the gate (2X)

Their families say just keep them in that place
No one out here can bear to see their faces
We don't believe that they're deprived
Besides we have a right to our own lives
Their families say just keep them in that place
The lawyers say they'll help us change things in the court
It's the only way to open up the doors
They're not criminals to be confined

The lawyers say we'll change things in the court
Our leaders say aren't they just like you and me
Our brothers and our sisters must go free
Give them dignity and pride
Give them back their names give them back their lives
Our leaders say they're just like you and me

© 1993 Karl Williams and Ruthie Beckwith