Have You Had ENOUGH Yet?

 

Cover photo by Dwight White

I’m asking about the compelling social justice anthology seven other poets and I collaborated to create, ENOUGH “Say Their Names” Messages from Ground Zero to the WORLD. Have you had a chance to read it yourself or to attend one of our reading events?

In early June of 2020, we began writing poems and prose inspired by photography from the Black Lives Matter protests from across the United States. Guided by poet, leadership coach, and photographer  Ronald Montgomery, 147 days later we had a stunning book full of color photographs and consciousness-raising works.

Since then, many of you have attended readings, purchased the book, shared it with family and friends,  and supported us with your positive comments. You have our undying appreciation.

Last week, in honor of Black History Month, we held a well-attended reading, sponsored by my daughter Asila Calhoun of Calhoun Coaching & Consulting. Each of the eight poets presented several poems, followed by group discussion and interaction with attendees. It was just the kind of program we’d envisioned—one which created opportunities for dialog and sharing and prompted the opportunity to look deeper into the social issues facing our country. The session was recorded and can be seen on YouTube.

It occurred to me that lots of folks may not have heard about ENOUGH yet. That’s one reason for this post. So please take a few moments to visit our website, Enough Say Their Names, where we’ve recently added audio samples. Then give yourself the time to watch the recording of our February 24^th Black History Month reading.

Endorsed by Nikki Giovanni, winner of the 2008 American Book Award and seven-time winner of the NAACP Image Award, she writes, “As much as this may make you angry or, in reality, hurt your heart. As much as you may wish your fellow and sister Americans were better people but recognizing they are not. As much as you ask the Lord to forgive you for your hate, this is a book you should read. You will not get ENOUGH of the truth.”

If you or your organization are committed to furthering social justice and would like to book a reading, please contact me by email or on my website at Connections & Conversations.

~ xoA ~