Story by Zoebelle Bean, News Columnist
On Thursday, February 29, the organization Voice Inspiring Black Students Everywhere (V.I.B.E) hosted a Poetry Slam in the Moose. Free pizzas and drinks were provided, and goody bags filled with stuffed animals, gum, and self-care items were given as prizes for reading poetry.
According to Nachaela Trice, “V.I.B.E is an organization that has been established here at Aquinas for many years… V.I.B.E is an organization that focuses on making sure that students of color on campus feel noticed, appreciated, supported and most of all a part of a community that sees them beyond the color of their skin.”
The Poetry Slam populated the Moose, with at least twenty-five students who came and nearly ten who read out poetry. Some people even read two or three poems and came up multiple times to entertain the audience. Poems ranged anywhere from personal, hand-written, free-form poems to ones that were well-known and written by famous figures, such as Maya Angelou. Soft music played in the background on the television as each poet approached the stage in the center of the Moose.
Sophomore Taylor Owens, who read several poems at the Slam, commented, “The Poetry Slam was something entirely new for me. I’ve never participated in something like it before, and to be honest, I was nervous. But the community that was there was so supportive, so welcoming. I had the opportunity to listen to people’s stories and emotions come out through their writing, and it’s something I think everyone should experience at least once. I had a ton of fun, and I’m so glad I went!”
Some of the poets had others take videos of their performance. The Slam was a great way for budding artists to find an open, warm space for them to begin their practice without judgment. Additionally, every participant was told, instead of clapping, to snap in appreciation of each poem, to allow everyone to receive equal and gentle reciprocation for their reading.
V.I.B.E hosted a positive, risk-free event that was heart-felt and touching for both the poets and the listeners. Another Poetry Slam would be well-received by the community. Stay tuned for V.I.B.E’s next events!
The Saint 