GHS NEWS

"This Is My Voice" Proves a Success

Sophomore D'Mori Garcia at head of poetic night

Reporter Joshua Coleman

On February 7th, 2021, the first annual NAACP poetry contest was held in Glocester High School, with the topic this year being "This Is My Voice." The event, created by D’Mori Garcia, proved to be outstanding. This event’s goal was “a community outreach event to safely and respectfully spread awareness in the community.”

The Poetry Slam was from 3 to 4:30 on a Friday afternoon. The participants (Makayla Hess, Victoria Dunham Quigley, Jaidyn Forrest, D'Mori Garcia, and Daniel Walsh, among others) read works about their stories and experiences. "It was AWESOME!" Ms. Carter stated, "There were poets and a singer and snacks and it was really powerful." As the event concluded, the judges, Mr. Alexander, Ms. Blake, Mr. Crowley, and Ms. Head, declared a tie.

"In all honesty, [organizing the contest] wasn't hard at all. Besides the stress I had brought on myself from wanting the event to go according to plan, the planning was smooth sailing" D'Mori says.

When asked about the highlights of the night, Ms. Cater responded, "D'Mori sang between the first two poets and Daniel Walsh, a senior, came to read because he likes writing poetry. The plan had been for all the poets to submit their work to me ahead of time, so I could be sure the language was school-appropriate. Daniel hadn't had a chance to pre-submit his work. When I said, "Well, it has to be language okay for school," he said, "Oh! Then I'll read this one instead!" And it was great! The English teachers asked if this could become a recurring event and we will discuss that for next school year. It was really enjoyable and I was proud of everyone who helped make it so good.

The event’s goal was “a community outreach event to safely and respectfully spread awareness in the community.” And both teachers and students alike agree that it more than fulfilled its expectations.

Considering the poetry contest is supposed to become an annual contest, D'Mori said, "I don't think I would change anything--it was an awesome turn out. The performers were amazing as were the judges."

All in all, many found the poetry contest a very powerful, moving night. With this year's NAACP poetry contest proving a massive success, many are hoping for the same results next year.