The public is invited to The Stanza Stories presentation and awards ceremony at 7 p.m. Thursday, June 25, at First Presbyterian Church, 321 S. Seventh St.
Celebrate the culmination of 10 racial healing workshops and hear the powerful poetry created by seven participants throughout this journey facilitated by Dr. Kelly Hurst, executive director of the Massey Commission, and Shatriya Smith, executive director of the Garvey-Tubman Cultural Arts and Research Center and Springfield’s own poet laureate.
The poets will unveil original pieces developed throughout the workshops. Through storytelling, reflection and creative expression, they will share work that reflects their unique journeys of growth, resilience and healing.
The program by Intricate Minds is made possible through support from the Healing Illinois grant and the Springfield Area Arts Council.
“The Mice” isa thought-provoking and evocative poem that captivates with its vivid imagery and sharp commentary on societal issues. The use of contrasting ideas, such as “Awake vs woke” and “the walking dead vs the prepared,” creates a powerful tension that invites readers to reflect on the complexities of modern life. The line about the “salmon-colored dust storm” is particularly striking; it paints a surreal picture that enhances the theme of chaos and transformation.
The Mice
Do I understand things differently or do you not see?
Bloodthirsty leadership for blind hypocrisy.
Awake vs woke, the walking dead vs the prepared.
A universal tragedy, what will be shared?
The hue of a salmon-colored dust storm mimicking a smoldering inferno.
Pretentiousness abounded while holding on to, I didn’t know.
The task ofenlightenment comes at a price.
The revolution will be wicked and we, the mice.
From Shatriya Smith’s new book, Let Your Pen Be Your Weapon, Let Your Voice Be Your Shield. Available for purchase at Wild Rose, Whimsy Tea Company and Stella’s Tea and Coffee.
This article appears in June 11-17, 2026.
