Queer Happenings at The Writer’s Block

On Saturday, August 10th, I had the pleasure of reading some of my poetry at The Writer’s Block Bookstore and Café! Queer Happenings Edutainment Night featured a panel discussion on Alaska’s budget cuts by Rev. Jacob Poindexter, Justina Beagnyam, and Dana Dardis and art by Jeremiah Freeman, Tatiana Agnew, and yours truly!

This was my third time reading at the Writer’s Block, but my first time reading outside of my MFA program. Anxiety was high, but fortunately I was able to employ some techniques passed on by faculty member and poet Erin Coughlin Hollowell. It was great to share the stage with some true Alaskan activists and talent. The crowd was super animated and supportive. With a great food and drink menu, books, and a constant flow of art and events, The Writer’s Block is rapidly becoming one of my favorite hangouts.

My poetry lately has focused a lot on my identity as multi-racial, being a mom, and some social and political themes. One of the poems I read was “For Reinette,” which appeared in the Spring 2019 issue of Alaska Women Speak.

Thanks to my MFA classmate, M.C. MoHagani Magnetek, for hosting and inviting me to participate! And a big thank you to my friends, family, and coworkers, who showed up and probably got a little more than they asked for!