Poetry Club Hosts African American Read-In

By Joshua Flores-Drew

The poetry club held the African American reading ceremony on February 28th, 2025. This event, held each year, invites young African American speakers to the stage to share wisdom from critical historical figures through new and original poetry that highlights the creativity of the next generation of creatives in a nationwide effort to promote literacy. This year, there were a total of six classes attending.

The atmosphere was charged with a quiet tension and excitement. Even so, the speakers marched with confidence up to the podium, confidently reciting the poems they had rehearsed time and time again, ranging from inspired works, such as golden shovel poems inspired by Terrance Hayes, to Historical poetry, such as that by Nikki Giovanni, and even original free form poetry as an innovative way to share the African American experience. Each speaker carried themselves with diligence, as if they wore the weight of young African Americans worldwide on their backs. Each of them emanated a fierce conviction that may change the world.

ELA Teacher Olivia Thompson, the event organizer and supervisor for the poetry club, acknowledged these speakers as brilliant young creatives in the making: “They have more than potential," she said. "Their poetry is brilliant, and their voices are beyond powerful. They inspire me every year.” Everyone shared a common hope to improve the lives of African Americans through words and bonds, making them comrades by aspiration. President of the Poetry club Harmony Hopwood, who was also a speaker at the event, said “I thought it was wonderful," she said of the event. "I adore being a part of this community of poets, and I think it's wonderful being in New Rochelle High School, and having a space where black students can share their poetry. I thought that the atmosphere was great. I thought everyone was supportive of one another.”

With such intelligence and courage, these speakers left a mark in the hearts of all who attended. Through astounding literary and poetic brilliance, they spread the message of what it is to be an African American.