The Break Up
Nothing in life is guaranteed,
But as humans we all have needs,
The need to be wanted,
The need to succeed,
To wake up with love by our side. T
o live life is to love, to love is to live,
If we don’t have love are we alive?
Tomorrow when we open our eyes,
Will it be then that we realize,
That the love we yearn for and strive to perfect,
Is now just a memory of life indirect.
Omar R. Anderson
INGHAM COUNTY, MI – The “Poetry in the City” event is a The New Citizens Press Community Action Network (TNCPCAN) program. This nonprofit annual event allows the community to unite and celebrate the power of words and artistic expression. Held against the scenic backdrop of Lansing, Michigan’s beautiful downtown and the majestic state Capitol, this promises an evening filled with poetry, music, and dance, providing a platform for seasoned poets and new voices to share their work.
Mark your calendar for a special evening of poetry on the Capitol steps, scheduled for Thursday, July 18, 2024, from 7-9 p.m. Attendees should bring a blanket or lawn chair and immerse themselves in a vibrant lineup of poets. Designed to be inclusive and engaging, the stage will be open to community members, offering a three-minute spotlight to share their poetic expressions, all within a family-friendly environment. Our diverse range of poets, from three-year-olds to those aged 98, reflects the universal appeal of poetry. Poetry in the City has welcomed attendees from as far as Canada, Ohio, and Atlanta, adding to the richness of our gathering. This promises to be an evening where language and artistry blossom, free from inappropriate language, ensuring an experience that all age groups can appreciate and enjoy.
With a history dating back to 2005, except for a brief hiatus during the pandemic, reciting poetry on the Capitol steps has been a cherished tradition in the Lansing community and beyond. Seeing how the community used the pandemic as a chance to write and publish is inspiring, further enriching the poetry culture with their creations.
The event’s inclusivity, where everyone is encouraged to participate and share their poetic expressions within a family-friendly environment, has been a theme since the beginning. Our hostess for the evening is Najeema Iman. She is
It is also great to see the diverse lineup of featured performers, including Omar Anderson, Rosemarie Wilson, and Sheila Carter, each bringing their unique talents to the stage.
We are still building our lineup, however, here are our featured performers:
Featured poet and singer Omar Anderson is an attorney based in New York City and a Thomas M. Cooley Law School graduate. He was present during the beginning and is still supporting us.
Rosemarie Wilson, aka “One Single Rose,” is an acclaimed actress, poet, and singer from Detroit. She is known for her unique style and poetic artistry.
Sheila Carter, line dance instructor with “Hustle With Sheila” will lead us in a hustle dance.
The support from local sponsors and the community’s enthusiasm for participating and attending highlights the event’s significance and role in fostering a vibrant artistic community in Lansing. Over the years, complimentary journals, pens, and T-shirts have been given to attendees as a swag encouraging participants to express themselves creatively.
Rina Risper, the founder’s dedication as the event coordinator and passion for uplifting the community through artistic expression is truly admirable. “Poetry in the City” stands as a testament to the unifying power of words and the importance of creating spaces where art and community intersect.
For individuals interested in either attending or taking part, it’s advisable to get in touch with Risper for additional information and to pre-register, ensuring participation in this festival of creativity and community spirit. More than just a social event, this occasion serves as a testament to the pivotal role of art in enriching our lives and knitting people together. If you have friends or family who cherish poetry, mark your calendars for July 18th, regardless of the weather.
We will be updating along the way! Please contact us at tncpcan@gmail.com.
