Archives for February 2015

Feb 21, 2015-Today at Rikers Island prison we were joined by 12 poets one of which was a prison guard (corrections officer Oliver) who delivered a Last Poets Poem. There was wonderful energy amongst the 30 or so incarcerated youth ages 16-21. The poetry today and interaction with the inmates was something that was never experienced since we have been going to the prison for almost a year now. Our program director Quindell Quev Evans designed a program of interaction and engagement with the youth which bought out the best in them and us. In addition to his awesome poetic talent, Quindell was amazing today.  I cannot thank Quindell Evans enough. Please read his new book which can be found at his website: www.Bluepoettree.com. Among the many poets who were phenomenal today was the one and only Raymond Vasquez, who has been with us a few times at Rikers Island prison. Thank you Raymond for all you do. I can’t thank enough David The Werdsman Anthony for your brilliance and poetic power. The inmates always seem to enjoy David. Today we were joined by a number of new faces. Thank you to Allahsha Skipper aka Poetry Queen, this lady had these young inmates on the edge of their seats as she created a picture in their minds of things they will never forget. Her energy and charm was as powerful as her delivery and brilliance.We were also joined today by Lisa Gladden aka Datrooth I think very deeply. Upon meeting this lady I immediately loved her charm, humor, wit, intelligence, humility and wisdom. She dropped a lot of wisdom (motherly) wisdom on these young people today that was well received. Thank you Datrooth. You must come back. I want to thank Victoya Militant Venise for being a faithful sister in the struggle for helping to liberate the minds of these young people using poetry. Victoya you hold a special place in my heart you miltant. Today we were also joined by newcomers dymanic duo Adrian Elias who is one of the finest poets and performers I have seen (thank you for serving in the armed force sir), and his sister Pamela Elias aka Mela Elias who spoke to these young people with such love and compassion that they truly need. Mela is a social worker whose heart is in the right place, thank you for coming today Pamela. Today also we welcomed another newcomer to Rikers Island but not a new comer to poetry events, art and education. Thank you Mutiya S-Vision for your warmth, compassion and gift of poetry. You shared your story with these young men who understand we are all human. You left your mark on these young people which was very well received. Thank you Mutiya. I want to thank a few ole veterans now who have come with us a few times now. Tony Polanco-Bethancourt is a phenomenal poet/artist and author who shared a word of HOPE and it doesn’t matter where you are born you have the power to overcome any and all adversity. Thank Tony. Thank you to my brother Eternal Mastizo (hope I pronounced that correctly) aka Yhamir Chabur. You always bring something to these young people they will never forget. Lastly I wish to thank the corrections officers who made this day remarkable and pleasant who have a difficult job . Lastly thank you to Ms. Linda Eaddy Director of Community Partnerships at the NYC Department of Corrections for giving us the opportunity to love our young brothers, sons, and nephews.  The women of Rikers Island prison need the same love and attention the guys get, hopefully we will be visiting the girls soon. We closed today’s poetry event with an old school cipher which was fun and entertaining. We will go back as long as they are there. Next the women of Rikers island.