A Call to Justice Just for Kids: ‘Woke’ Inspires Children to Create Art, Poems to Express

A Call to Justice Just for Kids ‘Woke’ Inspires Children to Create Art, Poems to Express Justice and Injustice

BY REBECCA “BUTTERFLY” VAUGHNS

Icould consider it an early Christmas gift or an extra-early birthday present. Either way, I felt special when the mail carrier delivered Woke: A Young Poet’s Call To Justice. I was immediately captivated by the cover illustration. The image of a young African-American girl with a pen behind her ear was a twist — a vibe I’m more used to seeing young boys with than girls.

The blend of the authors Mahogany L. Browne, Elizabeth Acevedo, and Olivia Gatwood, and the artwork of Theodore Taylor III makes for a book of poetry you’ll find yourself reading over and over again, as well as desiring to share it.

The foreword was short but full of familiarity: It’s a collection of proclamations, megaphoning to the young world that they are human and therefore have the right… to talk back, to speak up, to connect with the fortifying elements outside of them, as well as those that exist within. I felt every word penned by novelist and poet Jason Reynolds. I was able to relate deeply. I am my mother’s talk-back child. Her last child. The rebel one. I’m big on the principle of the situation. From the womb to now at 48 years of age, I speak my mind.

When it comes to a collection of work, I am into titles. Over time, I’ve become the fan of a poet after reading three to four poems listed. I lose it with their creativity and I super love metaphors. Hence, giving me the opportunity to reminisce makes the eye-indulging moment ever so beautiful. I went on an unforgettable lyrical ride thanks to Browne, Acevedo and Gatwood. Taylor’s illustrations complemented all 24 poems with a breathless touch. I thoroughly enjoyed reading each one. The following poems from Woke are my favorite: “The Ability to Be” spoke to the idea of just being, no matter what. The

poem “What’s In A Name” paid homage to some individuals that left behind an impactful mark on the world’s wall. I was a big Aaliyah fan, so to see the poem “Rock The Boat,” I was excited. Of course, that poem was about stirring up the pot on things. Never remain silent on what is right. And it was a home run for me with “The Poet’s Pen” as a poet can truly be considered a voice for the voiceless. The book’s title, Woke, is short, simple and straight to the point with a sharp force. Even when we are asleep we must still be awake. In closing, the subjects chosen to give life to were perfect and on point for a time such as this. The writings Mahogany L. Browne were the pure essence of what we all struggle with as human beings on a daily basis. I connected very much with the empathy tone being an empath myself. Their mission was surely accomplished with me because I am inspired and moved to leak weaved words onto paper with or without lines. May this book of poetry spark and wake up the poet inside of you as well as the voice you, by chance, have kept quiet for so long.

Rebecca “Butterfly” Vaughns is a native of Miami, Florida. A lover and writer of poetry since the age of 10, she’s been a performance poet-spoken word artist for 23 years. It’s been her full-time job for 18 years. www.cdbaby.com

Facebook: Rebecca Butterfly Vaughns

Instagram: Soulfulpoet72 mindpensoul.rv@gmail.com

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