Finding My Voice

To hear a poet read their work is quite an experience. You hear the emotion that is behind the words, where they pause, it’s not quite the same as reading on your own. This past week I was able to attend Claudia Rankine’s event here at school. I wasn’t originally going to go but I did, and I am so glad I did. There are many things I could talk about that night. How all the stories were true, and all these experiences happened to someone close to Rankine.  How race can enter the room in an environment that you thought was safe, and strike you with an unexpected blow.

I want to talk about the silence. That uncomfortable space in conversation, in life, that we so often ignore. What I noticed at the event was the silent conversations that were happening in these poems. The micro-aggressions. Things that were silent but screaming for your attention. After Rankine’s reading, and the Q&A I was able to meet her during the reception. I asked her about the silent conversations. We talked briefly on how we shouldn’t just let these things slip through our fingers, but rather point them out and address them. If someone is making you feel uncomfortable say it. Don’t get swallowed in the silence. Don’t let these things slide. Say something. Speak. Use your voice.

I told Rankine thank you. Thank you, for writing something that brings attention to things myself and my family have experienced.  Thank you, for reminding me that I don’t have to just stand and watch these things happen. Thank you, for reminding me I have a voice. Thank you, for making me realize that I need to use my voice. Thank you.