Spoken Word Poetry and Cultural Empowerment

• In Event: Media Literacy and Outreach in Ethnically Diverse High Schools

Abstract

Spoken word poetry provides a powerful medium for youth to reflect on their experiences and craft visions for their futures. It is also a communal form of expression, in that it involves performance for a live audience. As such, spoken word creates space for connection and dialogue among young people that can bridge race, gender, class and community. In the performative space of spoken word, youth expand their understanding of different socio-cultural experiences while simultaneously discovering common ground and common cause. I have spent the past four years facilitating spoken word projects at two public high schools on the West Side of Chicago. My work as a scholar and social work practitioner centers on spoken word as an approach to positive youth development. I am excited to share lessons learned and strategies for negotiating access and implementing projects in public schools. In addition, I am interested in discussing the intersection of spoken word and media literacy in the context of youth work.

Author

• Joseph Cytrynbaum, Northeastern Illinois University