Hanif Abdurraqib on the Lessons of June Jordan
Every year, starting in late August, I gather with a new group of high school writers from the Columbus City Schools district in my hometown of Columbus, Ohio. The group is small but eager, curious, vibrant. There are usually around
Every year, I join a small group of high school writers in Columbus, Ohio, to explore the power of poetry. They volunteer their time, meeting once a month for four hours to discuss poems, share their work, and challenge each other. As I leave the room and return to my daily life, I am grateful for the opportunity to witness their dedication to their craft.
The atmosphere is equitable, with no hierarchy or single correct answer, and the collective pursuit of creativity and understanding is the driving force behind our discussions.
A cherished memory is June Jordan's passionate words from a 1981 Brockport Writers Forum, where she emphasized that inaction is death. Her message resonates with me, as it captures her unwavering belief in the power of collective action to combat the injustices we face. In my workshops with these young writers, I emphasize the importance of using poetry as a vehicle for truth and honesty, as a means to inspire principled action and foster intergenerational political power.
By surrendering to the work that moves them, these poets remind us of the significance of our collective efforts and the importance of staying united in our pursuit of change.
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