In April, El Paso Human Services opened their first Poetry Night at Cafe Con Leche for the public to attend and perform their self made or published pieces in an open mic format. The idea was part of a project by Robert Jackson, who graduated in May with his master’s in Social Work.
“Social Work can be expressed through art, because part of social work is advocating and educating and you can do that through poetry, through art.” Jackson states, “ And other people don’t understand that it’s an outlet for people and it’s educating and awareness by speaking those words and speaking your truth that other people are afraid to speak out.”
The night was filled with chattering people, coffee, raffles and prizes. Perhaps the most important thing was individuals with open hearts ready to listen.
“ It is a good turnout, I’m excited ” Jackson stated. “ The nights of stress were definitely worth it”.
El Paso Human Services is an organization based in the El Paso County dedicated to empower youth, children, and families in crisis through individualized services, such as the CACFP Food Program, Preparation for Adult Living, The Winchester House, and more programs dedicated to making these groups of individuals feel safe and supported in times of trouble.
Robert wanted to create an event where participants would feel comfortable expressing their feelings, background, and difficulties through poems, prose, or creative writing. A place where any topic can be discussed without judgment.
“ It means that I’ve reached people,” Jackson stated, “ It means that my point was made and my hopes were spread to people and that they were able to understand that it is okay to be vulnerable and it makes me very happy that people are starting to accept that, open up, and speak their truth.”
As the night sky fell, people began to gather nervously waiting for their names to be called to perform as they held their creative pieces closely. The conversations and performances were diverse, ranging from performers speaking about the poetic love for a woman with big brown eyes and red lips to machismo that exists in Latin American cultures. Both the performers and audience alike bonded over these topics, striking conversations clapping for each other after each performance.
Ana Dueñes, a student at the UTEP College Of Pharmacy, emphasizes how important poetry night is especially for those who are members of the LGBTQ+ community, as it provides a voice for those who are unable to express themselves.
“ The majority of the speakers today are queer or are of some sort of ostracized minority” Dueñes said. “ And we’re all able to be comfortable enough to share very deep vulnerable pieces.
As Poetry Night came to a close, the message was clear that poetry is not just words written on to a blank piece of paper, but rather a reflection of emotions and important themes made to advocate for issues that both performers and audience alike are passionate about.
Sophia Villalobos, a student studying Creative Writing at UTEP expresses that poetry has helped her find her identity and bond with a community of people who are just alike to her.
“ There are a lot of supporting communities that a lot of people can find comfort in”. Villalobos stated. “ Knowing that people feel the same and that you are not alone that’s what’s helped me the most”. Villalobos continues “ Finding people that feel the same way and identify the same way makes it easier to connect with people and find people like you while finding your place in the world with people that are similar to you.”
Originally published August 7, 2024
