"Dear Young Men of Color" by Fong Tran

This month, the United States celebrates National Poetry Month, a national celebration of the rhythmic word. In honor of this glorious occasion, Voices will present some fresh takes on the art form.

A love letter to men of color, Fong Tran’s poem also serves as a bit of performance art. The silent men flanking him react visibly to his words, their faces showing first pain, then pride. A powerful piece with a message that is still far too relevant. RIP Freddie Gray.

But you will be resilient
you will overcome
that even though everything
will be against you
you are exactly what this world needs
they put you behind bars
just so you wouldn’t raise it
let me make it clear
that even though you start from the bottom
you change society beyond here