I am a Black poet from the Midwest, currently living in the Bay Area, and am studying poetry in school. I have always loved poetry and sharing it with others. It is my hope that this workshop will give the youth who attend the space and joy to write their truth, through poetry— I'd also like to share a few tips they can use as they're writing.
“I believe that everyone deserves to see themselves on the page, in reading and writing poetry; especially youth of color. As a Black poet, I want to lift up and affirm the poetry that the youth are writing. I want to let them know that I see them, their stories are valid, and to affirm who they are.” - Ariel