I remember the first time I took the stage for a slam in Ann Arbor for the Brave New Voices Youth Poetry Slam. It was the early 2000s. I was in my second year of high school. Essentially, it was the best thing to ever happen to me.
The stage, the lights, the opportunity to speak my truth, share the stories I cared about and feel like I have a valued voice was a huge self-esteem boost for any teen, especially me.
That power to speak never left. Matter of fact, it continues to be a drive in my work life, in my art and in my personal life.
Speak you(r) truth.
I’ll give you a venue to do it at: Fire Historical and Cultural Arts Collaborative at 1249 Portage Rd in Kalamazoo, MI. Located in an old firehouse, Fire has been supporting visual and audible artists for years. We host a slam every second Saturday of every month for a minimum $5 donation. Doors open at 8 p.m. Come as a slammer, even if you have never slammed before. We will be nice to you.
Check out thisisfire.com for more events and follow us on twitter.
