For our final poetry night of the 2023 season, we explored the themes of racial injustice and the Black Lives Matter movement. It was honest, emotional, raw, heavy, and unforgettable.

The award-winning poet, writer Shonda Buchanan hosted the evening and curated a roster of brilliant black poets Bridgette Bianca, Conney Williams, Nailah Porter and David Judah 1 who spoke their truths with brilliance and urgency.

The night began with a pouring of libations by Benin Lemus, honoring those we have lost. Percussive beats of the drum echoed as names were said, aloud in remembrance.

You could hear a pin drop as poets shared stories of grief, oppression and racial profiling, arcing into snaps and claps from the audience to the expressions of Black joy, love and resilience accompanied by acoustic guitar and drumming. Each verse was as powerful and poignant as the next, bringing tears to our eyes.

One of our favorite verses of the night came from the Poet Laureate of Pomona, David Judah 1: “I don't want a revolution, I AM ONE”.

We encourage you to follow each of the featured poets:

@bridgettebianca
@dredconney
@judah1
@nailahporter
@shondabuchanan