Gordons Parks was a photographer, composer, author, poet, and film director, but more importantly for me, he was a prominent figure in my childhood and got into my psyche and my poetry.

Black History Month is one of many opportunities for individuals and organizations to acknowledge the rich historical legacy of Black people.

Mt. Vernon United Methodist Church in Richmond, Texas was founded in 1865 by former slaves just after the Civil War. It’s still going strong.

it’s not enough to “not be racist,” I must be anti-racist and actively involved in highlighting injustice and creating a better world, along the lines of “If you’re not part of the solution, you’re part of the problem”.

The song A Rainbow for Fred is a lilting and yet pensive instrumental that lingers with you long after the last note fades, much like the legacy of the activist Fred Hampton, who was killed in 1969.

I join millions of others in mourning the late Congressman and civil rights leader John Lewis, a true American hero, and offer a simple haiku in his honor.

Now is a good time for listening, and learning.
I hear you. #BlackLivesMatter

A poem by Gordon Parks speaks of curiosity, wonder, celebration of life and nature, and the awesome, simple, dead-on-target mindfulness of children.