Poetry

“Where Are You From?”: This poem was originally written to be performed as a slam poem. Growing up in Canada, I was constantly asked the question of where I am really from. At an early age, I already knew what micro aggressions were. I decided to reflect on real experiences and comments I received when writing this poem. This poem is not just a reflection of my own experiences, but also a call for others that have felt the same way I have. I want people to know that they do not need to feel ashamed when learning about the wrong history taught in North American schools. The narrator of this poem navigates the inner dialogue that goes on when someone asks where you are really from. She is not urging people to not ask, but rather to understand the gravity of this “clarification.” There is no clear answer or solution that the narrator is aiming for, she is telling the reader that this is not an innocent question. She is recounting all the past interactions from being asked that question, specifically being told what her history is and then re-learning it for herself. I want readers to piece apart this poem and take the parts that most resonate for them. Whether it is the entire poem or only a line, I want readers to feel seen and belonged.