FRANCIS HARPER POETRY SLAM INAUGURAL KICK-OFF
Written by Tafari Nefer Ka Ra
Photos by Tafari Melewise
Written by Tafari Nefer Ka Ra
Photos by Tafari Melewise
On October 6, 2013 the Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle put on a poetry slam at The Space (2640 Saint Paul St. Baltimore, MD) in honor of Baltimore’s own abolitionist, poet, and author Francis Ellen Watkins Harper. Mrs. Harper was born September 24, 1825 and passed February 22, 1911 in Philadelphia, PA. Mrs. Harper had a very long prolific career as a poet and author, publishing her first poetry book in 1845 at the tender age of 20 titled “Forest Leaves.” Her first novel titled “Lola Leroy” received great reviews in 1892.
Francis Harper was not just a literary genius, but also a revolutionist, taking up righteous causes such as the abolition of slavery and women rights. In 1851 alongside William Still Pennsylvania Abolitionist Society Chairman, helped slaves escape to their freedom through the Underground Railroad. Mrs. Harper a member of the American Anti-Slavery Society is what I would call Politically Poetic. She also the co-founder of the National Association of Colored Women, which championed equal rights for African-American women years before any other organization in this country, was addressing that issue.
Tafari Nefer Ka Ra
So today’s event was a showcase of Baltimore’s up and coming poets as they pay homage to Francis Harper, to see if they can carry on tradition 200 years after the birth of Mrs. Harper, with their heart felt original works. Nine poets graced the stage from all walks of life, with different ideologies, concepts, and worldviews. The poets ranged in age from early twenties to late thirties. Out of the nine poets two were women and the rest were men, all the participants were African-American. The show was hosted by LBS first lady Black Pearl and emceed by hip-hop artist DevRock.
Rebecca Dupas was featured as she performed three sultry works wooing the crowd. Yours truly Tafari Nefer Ka Ra performed as well. All of the poets did a great job but it came down to the last two contestants Duke and the eventual winner Langston Hughes, as both battled it out bringing a climatic end to a historical night. The vibe was mellow and very relaxed inside The Space as vendors brought their goods (books, CD, and t-shirts) to the event. It was a nice turnout for the event and everyone declared that they would return next year for the showcase of Baltimore’s top Poets. Until next year folks stay safe and strong, the fight continues on.
Rebecca Dupas was featured as she performed three sultry works wooing the crowd. Yours truly Tafari Nefer Ka Ra performed as well. All of the poets did a great job but it came down to the last two contestants Duke and the eventual winner Langston Hughes, as both battled it out bringing a climatic end to a historical night. The vibe was mellow and very relaxed inside The Space as vendors brought their goods (books, CD, and t-shirts) to the event. It was a nice turnout for the event and everyone declared that they would return next year for the showcase of Baltimore’s top Poets. Until next year folks stay safe and strong, the fight continues on.
