In my work as a poet, and more specifically a poet whose work centers the ancestral, it has been an especially fruitful season.

Two events have provided an opportunity for me to engage with community as a poet and to place the ancestral front and center.

I delivered my poem about our brave enslaved ancestors Dred and Harriet Scott at the dedication of the new memorial.

I also operated a poetry word wall at the 21st annual Mary Meachum celebration.

Mary Meachum and her husband, Reverend John Berry Meachum, were staunch abolitionists who dedicated their lives to educating and freeing enslaved people. On the night of May 21, 1855, Mary attempted to help a small group cross the Mississippi River into Illinois, where slavery was outlawed.

I have so enjoyed October, which is Hoodoo Heritage Month, and the opportunities to share my gifts with the wider community.

Check out my tik tok here (coverted to youtube) dedicated to Hoodoo Heritage month and my memories of Hoodoo growing up: