‘Poetry’ Archives
2020 Vision
Plagued by uncertainty and stress? It’s our never-ending story. When will l gather with my community in joy instead of fear? I’m constantly anxious and questioning who will still be here. “Be palatable or the token to survive” seems like nothing about this lived-experience is fair. Though some are blinded by greed and hatred while others are naive; I, however, still see it clear. Even when they question the validity of my citizenship, I still see it clear. As I deal with the everlasting trauma that comes with being unequivocally Black… I still see it clear. Through all of their cruel and divisive tactics, I still see it clear. How could I not? How could I ever lose focus or get distracted when society generously reminds us of their hatred for our complexion? I’m tired of drowning in oppression and fear. For once, I’d love to float effortlessly and enjoy the stillness of life. But instead, I’m trapped in the current; while still trying to see [...]
The Silent Star of South Minneapolis
By BRAD TROM A winter sun hangs low and cold,Above the stories left untold.On Wednesday next, the news broke wide,With nowhere left for grief to hide.A daughter, mother, neighbor, friend—A life that met a reckless end.They governed for the camera’s lens,To satisfy their own amens.But sensational sparks leave ashes behind,And fear is a harvest of a bitter kind.In Minneapolis, the sirens cried,For Renee Nicole, who shouldn’t have died.A Promise in the FrostThe Governor speaks with a heavy heart,“They will not tear our homes apart.”Though headlines chase the conflict’s fire,The North Star State aims something higher.Not in the streets with stone and flame,But in the courts, they’ll speak her name.The Day of UnityOn Friday, when the air was still,A different force began to fillThe parks, the pews, the quiet halls—A grace that answers duty’s calls.A moment held in silence deep,For promises we mean to keep.A Hand Extended: Through acts of care.A Shared Breath: In the [...]
Space
By SHELIA BLAND The space where words cannot liveNot in speechNot in thoughtThe space where timeSlows downEven stopsWhere action seemsImpossibleWhere no possible action isEffectiveThe space unlocatable byMapSearch orAIWhere is this spaceWhere words cannot live Shelia Bland lives in Midtown Phillips. She has been writing most of her life to help herself understand the experiences and people in her shared world.
