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"We believe poetry can lead to change," poet Debbie Allen said. A group of poets gathered Saturday at the Franklin Public Library to share original works and poems published by others which address the topics of bigotry and hate. A crowd of roughly 30 people attended the event by "Poets Against Racism USA," an organization created by Debbie Allen of Youngstown and Patricia Thrushart (bottom right picture) of the Cook Forest area.
Prior to the event, Thrushart said “We hope to have an audience that comes with open minds and hearts ready to join us in denouncing racism and hate.” It appeared that's what they got. A couple even came to read their own poetry in the open mic portion of the day.
The group was joined by several poets from the Bridge Literary Arts Group based in Venango and Clarion counties.
The Poets Against Racism USA’s website explains who they are as “… a network of primarily US-based poets who challenge, discuss, and confront racism, bigotry, and hate through the power of poetry." The group is affiliated with the Poets Against Racism movement launched in the UK in 2017. PAR USA was formed in 2021. "We wish to promote love, peace, and positivity toward all, regardless of color, ethnicity, place of origin, creed, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, appearance, or physical or mental ability. We encourage others from around the country to join our movement so that we can spread the message of zero tolerance for racism, bigotry, and hate.”
To learn more about the group, visit their website here.
Prior to the event, Thrushart said “We hope to have an audience that comes with open minds and hearts ready to join us in denouncing racism and hate.” It appeared that's what they got. A couple even came to read their own poetry in the open mic portion of the day.
The group was joined by several poets from the Bridge Literary Arts Group based in Venango and Clarion counties.
The Poets Against Racism USA’s website explains who they are as “… a network of primarily US-based poets who challenge, discuss, and confront racism, bigotry, and hate through the power of poetry." The group is affiliated with the Poets Against Racism movement launched in the UK in 2017. PAR USA was formed in 2021. "We wish to promote love, peace, and positivity toward all, regardless of color, ethnicity, place of origin, creed, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, appearance, or physical or mental ability. We encourage others from around the country to join our movement so that we can spread the message of zero tolerance for racism, bigotry, and hate.”
To learn more about the group, visit their website here.
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