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Finding My Voice Through Writing
I have always been drawn to the written word, inspired by my older sister’s creative pursuits. Her ability to read, write, and express herself artistically motivated me to follow in her footsteps. The desire to write a teen chapter book ignited a spark within me, leading me to explore my own creative path. While my sister transitioned to visual arts, I remained committed to writing, carving out my unique space in the literary world.
My grandfather, Otis, played a significant role in my artistic upbringing. By introducing me to plays, musicals, and ballets, he opened my eyes to the rich world of performing arts—a realm I initially felt too timid to engage with. The turning point came during high school when a supportive counselor encouraged me to join the CityWide Poets program with InsideOut Literary Arts. This experience allowed me to discover my voice as a spoken word poet, igniting a newfound confidence that propelled me into the world of theater.
Embracing the Stage
As I ventured into the realm of theater at Cass Tech, I began to take on small roles in school plays and participated in Readers Theatre. My passion for storytelling flourished as I began to experiment with writing for the stage during my college years. I quickly fell in love with the collaborative process of playwriting, where ideas come to life through teamwork and shared creativity.
One play that resonates deeply with me is Christina Anderson’s “the ripple, the wave that carried me home.” As a Black girl, I connect with its themes of freedom and resistance, particularly the importance of learning to swim—a skill my father and uncle insisted we master. The play’s poetic language and exploration of complex relationships reflect the historical and ongoing struggles of segregation, while also highlighting the healing power of family and water. This work profoundly impacts my understanding of identity and community.
Role Models and Inspirations
My father, a hands-on role model, has been a significant influence in my life. Throughout my childhood, he transformed our home, turning a small two-bedroom house into a spacious seven-bedroom abode. He enlisted my siblings and me as his construction crew, teaching us valuable skills along the way. I later learned that his construction talents originated from building sets for plays during his teenage years. This connection between space and storytelling has profoundly shaped my understanding of the world and continues to inform my writing.
While it’s challenging to name just one second role model, Madelyn Porter stands out. An actor, writer, and educator, her ability to inspire young artists is remarkable. Madelyn embodies the idea that those who teach can indeed create and perform. Her infectious energy and commitment to the arts have made a lasting impact on everyone she encounters, providing a blueprint for fostering community through creativity.
Pursuing Childhood Dreams
In my early years, I had dreams of becoming a veterinarian, and then I aspired to be like Oprah. While I never pursued veterinary medicine, I’ve cared for numerous furry friends, establishing a connection to that dream. Although my career hasn’t mirrored Oprah’s, I have hosted a web show with my wife, produced my content, and even shared book recommendations with others. I feel I am on the right path to fulfilling my childhood aspirations.
In my quest for queer representation, I often find myself sifting through various media, searching for relatable Black queer women characters and storylines. I fear no judgment in this pursuit, knowing that representation matters. My play series “eLLe: Kalamazoo,” an episodic dramedy about West Michigan sapphic women, created a community I desperately needed. Through laughter and shared experiences, we built a family-like environment that continues to inspire my future projects.
Envisioning an Artistic Future
I believe that access to the arts should be a fundamental right for every community. Imagine walking just a few blocks to find a theater, dance studio, or art gallery. When arts education and resources become readily available, communities can thrive. I envision a world where the basic needs of our neighbors are met, allowing for investments in the arts that foster healing, joy, and education.
By creating vibrant arts districts, we can transform every neighborhood into a hub for creativity and expression. As we continue to build spaces that reflect our stories, we create opportunities for connection, understanding, and community growth. The future holds endless possibilities for artistic exploration, and I am excited to be part of this journey.