Does Our Labor = Our Value? by Jhon Carlos Barrera
Jhon Carlos Barrera. Image submitted by the poet. Does Our Labor = Our Value by Jhon Carlos Barrera Mami always said hard work will always beat out the restMami always said keep your head down and stay quiet, no llames la atenciónDon’t draw attention to yourself she saidOur silence is what we trade for our […]
Rent Is Up, Love Remains by Amari Murray
Amari Murray. Photo submitted by the poet. Rent Is Up, Love Remains by Amari Murray The landlord called ita market adjustment. We called it:Where are we supposed to go?The number on the paper climbed higher than anything we could afford. Rent went up.Groceries went up.The electric billlearned new numbers.Everything became more expensive except the thingswe […]
Haikuism: (not) wanting to die by Deborah Olatunji
Deborah Olatunji. Photo submitted by the poet. haikuism: (not) wanting to die by Deborah Olatunji it feels taboo to name it in the moment(s) but you’re sinking deeper than you swam somehow convinced enough people to recognize maybe this is not who Iam the picture of “how are you doing?” glitch between missed hangouts, forgotten […]
Poet Qadir Crosby wants more people to talk about masculinity, the military, and mental health
Qadir Crosby. Photo submitted by the poet. Deployment by Qadir Crosby As I packed my bags for the ArmyMy father said I became a man today Like merciless, mass murder makes me Any more of a man than the thing that’s between my legsMy wife asked me to return to her the same way I […]
Poet’s Press: “In It Together” – A Mother’s Meditation on Community, Culture, and Care
I hear the mother’s and fathers cries in my sleep
A collective memory
A heartbeat we all felt until it stopped
I feel their pain in my gut like I lost my son
Hold him just a little tighter and pray over him just a little more
Warning him about the rules
We don’t go unless there’s two
Someone gotta look like you
Poet’s Press: The Checklist
“The Checklist” is a poem written by musician, poet and artist Chris Niles.
Ancestors in the Sun
“Ancestors in the Sun” is a reflective poem that seeks to give gratitude and pay homage to the ancestors and guardian spirts that came before us and protect us.
Dreams In Smoke
“Dreams in Smoke” is a reflection on the impact of genocide. Through evocative language and vivid imagery, the poem explores the tragic consequences of conflict, leaving readers with a sobering reminder of the human cost of violence and the enduring search for hope amidst despair.
The Phoenix
Delve into a poignant poem reflecting the complexities of self-perception and inner truth. Explore themes of introspection, resilience, and empowerment as the poet navigates the labyrinth of identity.
Dear Buddha Baby
