I wrote myself toward a stronger version of myself
Caring for myself is not self-indulgence,
it is self-preservation and that is an act of political warfare.
~ Audre Lorde
On April 29th, Poetic Justice Institute hosted the 2nd annual I wrote myself toward a stronger version of myself literary gathering for BIPOC Fordham students, faculty and allies at Lincoln Center
During this day-long activation, faculty and students engaged in sharing circles, generative writing on body chakra energy centers, poetry salons, a mentorship Real Talk lunch with acclaimed poets and a Dream Space where attendees could participate in a craft circle or a restorative forest bathing. Deborah Paredez, a co-founder of CantoMundo, encouraged attendees to make sure to prioritize creative space by making sure to keep a low overhead. “You want to be free in your life,” she counseled. Omotara James challenged our group to “Reject rejection” and to follow the divining rod of poems that may seem be “unsuccessful” but are always a part of the larger whole of a poetic project. Wo Chan encouraged folks to “let yourself be known to yourself and to others” and to use the vehicle of authentic speech to do this. Dante Micheaux, Director of Programs at Cave Canem, advised our group to “allow your work to be in conversation with greatness.”
“To be able to fully engage in a safe and intimate environment—with students from all years, and with similar humanities interests as my own—was something that was necessary to my mental and emotional health at Fordham. I had looked forward to this event since it was advertised to me, and I was nothing short of pleased and grateful for the experience I was given. Everyone was vulnerable and participated with their full creativity and spirit.....”
