Modesto recently celebrated the historic appointment of Angela Drew as the city’s first Black Poet Laureate. At her debut reading, she presented a powerful poem, “Poetry Lives Here,” to the Modesto City Council, which honored Black literary icon Phillis Wheatley. Drew’s appointment brings a fresh voice to the city’s artistic community and reflects Modesto’s growing appreciation for diversity in the arts.
Celebrating Poetry’s Deep Roots in Community
Angela Drew’s poem, “Poetry Lives Here,” resonated with the audience as she spoke of poetry’s place in daily life. She emphasized how poetry extends beyond academic circles and into the experiences of ordinary people.
“Poetry belongs to the people,” she recited, illustrating her belief that it lives in the heartaches, joys, and struggles that shape everyday life. Her words painted vivid pictures of resilience, capturing the shared humanity in each line.
Drew’s work centers on giving a voice to those often overlooked. Her poem touched on the challenges faced by marginalized communities and invited the audience to see poetry as a universal, healing force. By honoring Phillis Wheatley, Drew highlighted the legacy of the first Black female poet to be published, whose courage and artistry paved the way for poets of color.
Angela Drew’s Path to Becoming Modesto’s Poet Laureate
Angela Drew’s journey to this honor showcases her dedication to her craft and community. Her poetic work has long been rooted in Modesto, where she consistently explores themes of justice, love, and identity. Drew has earned recognition for her unique ability to blend social commentary with personal storytelling, making her work relatable and profound.
Her selection as Poet Laureate underscores Modesto’s commitment to embracing artistic voices that represent its diverse population. Drew’s role as Poet Laureate allows her to expand poetry’s influence, reaching new audiences and creating spaces for public expression. With her strong focus on inclusion, she aims to inspire others to find their voice and celebrate their heritage through poetry.
Honoring Phillis Wheatley: A Tribute to Black Literary Heritage
In her first reading as Poet Laureate, Drew dedicated her poem to Phillis Wheatley, honoring her role as a trailblazer in American literature. Wheatley’s legacy as the first Black woman to be published stands as a powerful symbol of resilience and creativity. Drew’s tribute highlighted Wheatley’s impact, reminding the audience of her groundbreaking work amid the challenges of her time.
Through Drew’s words, Wheatley’s influence is brought to life, showcasing how poetry serves as both a personal and collective experience. Drew emphasized that poetry “lives where we live,” echoing Wheatley’s timeless contributions and affirming poetry’s ability to transform lives. Her dedication served as a heartfelt reminder of the importance of representation in literature.
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