Black Queer Emancipation Open Mic

The written word is a form of rebellion for Black folx. Our earliest memories of being in this country were all tied to the oppressive act of making communication, particularly written communication, illegal. It is no wonder that we find our emancipation in expressing ourselves through the wordsounds our hearts and minds conjure up. The Vortex celebrates this history, celebrates the power in writing, speaking, signing, shouting one’s truth without fear of persecution. Three of the most profound and prolific poets of our generation take to the mic to elevate, enlighten, allow us to share in their joy, pain, the rapturous and oftentimes terrible wonder of existing as a Black human. Including the remarkable dynamism of poets Ebony Stewart, Akeem Olaj, and Shasparay, as well as the stylings of anyone brave enough to peel back the layers of their humanity for an attentive crowd. – Cy White