Strong Black Poets Discussed at Brickstone by St. John’s Women’s Social
“Black women have a special relationship with poetry and using their voices to express their feelings about racial and economic oppression,” says Faith Prather, a Brickstone by St. John’s Resident and organizer of February’s Women’s Social, Phenomenal Women: The Voices of Strong Black Poets.
Faith says that the gathering was “A celebration of the Black female voice and, of course, an observance of Black History Month.”
“We wanted to celebrate the strength and resilience of Black women,” says Faith, a retired professor who was the provost of diversity at SUNY Brockport. Faith has lived at St. John’s for two years and this is the second Women’s Social she has organized.
“Some popular poets we covered were Nikki Giovanni, Phillis Wheatley, and Maya Angelou — who inspired the title of our discussion because of her poetry titled Phenomenal Woman,” says Faith.
The lesser-known poets discussed at the event, which welcomed over 50 residents, included Lucille Clifton, Sonia Snachez, and Gwendolyn Brooks.
Faith says there is a “universal appeal with poetry,” especially among women of color in times of oppression. “I think it is more important than ever to discuss,” says Faith, ” in today’s climate, which suggests cutting out diversity and working against people, especially women.”
“The voices still need to continue and be heard — poetry and other forms of literature and music are important because they help with expression.”
The monthly Brickstone by St. John’s Women’s Social is one of the many resident-run programs at St. John’s that promote learning and allow residents to pursue their passions.