The Last Frontier: The Role of Poetry in Protest

Protest poetry takes on many different forms, yet one aspect remains constant; this style of poetry aims to share a specific message about an issue that is important to the writer. Usually, these poems address social or political issues and are designed to spur dialogue and examination, release creative tension or frustration or in many instances, challenge the status quo on the particular issue or concern. For example, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., led a revolutionary nonviolent protest movement that called upon the nation to end the centuries-old racist and unjust treatment against African-Americans. Poets, before, during and after this era demonstrated through their work the requisite power and much-needed determination to call for long lasting change. More importantly, society still needs poets to draw attention to current and ongoing issues as well as to call the audience to action. So poets, call-in and share poetry or thoughts about issues that matter to you.  

Alex Getachew, a noted community activist will join us live to provide commentary and share additional context for the discussion. So please join us for a stimulating evening of great poetry and dialogue!

http://www.meetup.com/DC-Poetry-Project