The Power of Voice

When I was 17, I sat in my high school auditorium as Mr. G (who later became my instructor for a senior English elective: Race and Identity in American Literature) reflected on recent world events and informed us of an upcoming opportunity. Osama Bin Laden had just been killed, and a few moments prior, our auditorium had erupted in “USA” chants. Mr G’s words were quiet, amplified not by their volume, but by their strength. He spoke to us about the power of voice; about the dangers that can occur when this power is broadcast by the majorities, blinded to minority, marginalized,and underinvested perspectives, and ignorant to the complexities of reality, which is never categorical.

The upcoming event, he told us, was about the spoken word. Two poets would be at our school the following month, sharing their voices with us. These were voices for good, he told us. Voices that could uplift, change, and inspire. I went and listened to their stories. They were stories of trauma, heartbreak, loss, joy, injustice, and love. I was captivated. Mr. G’s message had resonated with me, but the spoken word poetry transformed me. These folx were artists in true form, wielding their words into masterpieces that illuminated the space around them and activated a galvanizing energy in the crowd.

I decided I would use my own voice for good, for change, and for impact. I would use my voice even when I wasn’t sure, even when I had more questions than answers, even when it was vulnerable and challenging. I decided I would use my voice even though I didn’t yet know how (and, almost 10 years later, I still cannot claim I “know how,” and likely never will, though I am striving). Part of this striving means using my voice, my privilege, my platform, and all the tools in my toolbox to effect positive change in our society and to serve the most vulnerable among us. Another, equally important part of this striving involves seeking out and amplifying other voices. Some voices will always be heard more than others, and for those of us who are heard, we bear an even greater responsibility to listen.

That is why I am here. To use my voice, and to listen, with love, humility, and sincerity. Thank you for visiting, and for helping me stay accountable to this commitment.