Grades 9–10
WritingQuran Samad was born in Oakland, CA and is 15 years old. Most of her family is from San Francisco, CA but eventually migrated to Oakland, CA. She loves to Write, Sing, Dance and be a helping hand whenever she can, she loves to do hair, makeup and nails and would love to pursue a cosmetology career. But overall she hopes that one day she can follow her dreams and become a General Surgeon.
Quran’s piece was first published in Cherished Like a Bright Star: A Collection of Writing by Young Authors, ages 8-19 from 826 Valencia’s Black Students Initiative. You can purchase the collection from 826 Valencia here.
How does it feel to grow up in the United States isn’t the right question, the real question is “How does it feel to grow up Black in the United States?” A young Black man’s perspective and experience growing up here is way different from a young white man’s.
It feels bittersweet. It’s not all bad and it’s definitely not good, growing up Black here you have to watch your back. You have to
live in fear. You have to be careful, you have to be brave. You have to be Strong, independent, successful, angry, and the list just goes
on. To grow up here it’s confusing and stressful because if I’m not one thing, I’m another. There are so many rules and standards that
us as Black people are expected to live up to, if I’m too loud I’m “ghetto and ratchet.” If I’m too quiet I’m a “punk and scary.” If I’m not dressed a certain way I’m “poor” or a “h**”—if I’m outspoken I’m “irritating or do too much.” We never get a break and when we aren’t successful we fit the “broke ghetto and ratchet” stereotype.
How is my vision of a world? It would be nothing like this and everyone would be equal and treated equally. The only way that
can happen is if everyone loves themselves. Because if you don’t love yourself, it’s hard to love someone else. You’d have to be right
with yourself before you love someone else.
by Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
by Salma Khalif, 826 MSP
A powerful poem that lifts up Black women.
by Isabella, 826NYC
This poet rejects judgement based on the color of one’s skin.
by Anjum, 826CHI
A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).
by Ryker, 826michigan
Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”
by Chris O., Age 15, 826 Valencia
A freshman describes their first day of school on their own.
by Kalyn Jackson, 826 New Orleans
Through this short story, Kalyn explores ideas of home and change in an altered world.
by Steysi Hailee, 826LA
A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.
by Mariah Valenzuela, Minneapolis, MN
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poet uses her voice to speak up for those who have been silenced in the indigenous community.
by Sally Phan, 826 Boston
A memoir that questions the idea of home and how it changes with time.
by Tala, Grade 10, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, 10th grader Tala asks essential workers what motivates them to keep going during these difficult times, offering her own views on hope for the future.
Alex P., Grade 10, 826 National
A poem to the next president of the U.S. demanding change and advocating for transgender rights.
by Aphra, 826CHI
A student considers realistic happy endings and the representation of LGBTQIA+ youth through the analysis of two webcomics.
by Cindy, 826LA
A student compellingly argues that immigrants deserve respect and to be free of discrimination.
by Calvin, 826michigan
A laugh-out-loud personal narrative about a crush. Has your heart ever beat so fast it might get a speeding ticket and a $500 fine?
by Bianca Morcho, 826 MSP
A personal essay that explores the different shades of the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Raymond A., Grade 10, 826 Boston
A bilingual poem that expresses the love of one's culture and people
by Jazlyn Moses, 826 National
One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.
by Christian Z., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.
by Mercury, 826CHI
A student explores the representation of LGBTQIA+ minorities and youth in US pop culture.
by Justis Porter, age 16, 826 Boston
A neighborhood ode filled with sights and sounds of the poet's street.
by William, 826LA
A teen discovers the power of books to transport him to another world, and shares his excitement about becoming a published author.
by Maggie Munday Odom, Kailua, HI
This poem personifies Earth as a mother coping with the brutalities of climate change.
by Anthony, 826DC
This poem gives insight to what it's like growing up Black in America.
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
by Elizabeth W, 826 Valencia
Even though we may look different, we remain united with one another.
by Aniah, 826 MSP
A student is lifted up by the dance of her ancestors.
by Savannah, 826NYC
Using dialogue and detailed description, this poet investigates whose voices are heard and whose voices are left behind when injustice occurs.
by Jonas K., 826 National
A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.
by Samuel Wang, Grade 10, 826NYC
A poem about the complexity of love exchanged during the holidays.
by Jasmine J, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on her origins to deconstruct social borders and seize her boundless future.
by Vanessa Ramon-Ibarra, 826DC
Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
by Numan Khan, age 16, 826 Boston
A bilingual "I am" poem filled with conviction and courage.
by Caroline, 826 Valencia
A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.
by Terra C., Grades 10-11, 826NYC
A student recalls their journey on how they discovered their LGBTQIA+ identity.
by Sammie, Grade 9, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a freshman at South High School in Minneapolis thanks care workers for supporting our local and national communities during this global pandemic.
by Reuben & Giselle, 826CHI
Two students write to each other about where they came from, what they love, and a few mishaps along the way in an exchange of letters.
by Sharoya Bracey, 826NYC
In this memoir, the narrator recounts the struggle of being the bigger person in a very small space.
by Anonymous, Grade 8, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
by Melody Marcano, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on their roots and their desire to grow.
by Jana C., 826LA
A celebration of self and exploration of core values.
by Yazmine-Gizelle, 826DC
This poem uses a fundamental poetry technique, repetition, to share the writer's future plans.
by Lucas Hu, 826 Boston
A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition
by Navayah, 826 MSP
Through redefining a label, a student reclaims a piece of their identity.
by Kyla Edwards, 826 New Orleans
This creative short story explores a snapshot of what a future New Orleans might look like amid climate change.
by Jizelle Villegas, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
The stunning and vulnerable poem processes feelings of loss, grief, and hope for the future.
by Joanne H, 826 Valencia
In this poem, a student’s experiences in two countries meld together as she seeks out her true home.
by Jahruwach Hamilton, 826NYC
In this rousing poem, a student asserts her strength and worth as a woman.
Yashasa Fluker, Grade 9, 826 New Orleans
A student describes the eeriness of liminal spaces.
by Karla M., 826LA
A poem for lovers of love and the moon.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Charles, 826 MSP
A student reflects on his life, stemming from the life of his father.
by Henry, Matthew, & Santiago, 826CHI
A compilation of letters written by three students across one city filled with thoughts on books, sports, music, family, and musings on Valentine’s Day.
by Tammy Fong, 826NYC
A soccer-filled, feud-fueled memoir.
by Jason, 826michigan
Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".
Amara, 826 New Orleans
An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.
by Alphonsine M., 826LA
A student reflects on the journey and struggle of growing in the face of adversity.
by Samantha Wint, Grade 9, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to explore many dualities of the narrator's life.
by Lisbeth M.F., 826NYC
A story about how Marcus becomes Marcela.
by Jazmine & Vanessa, 826CHI
Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.
by Luciana, Grade 10, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a sophomore at South High School in Minneapolis gives thanks to Children’s Hospital employees.
by Christopher, Bryan, & Jahir, 826CHI
In an exchange of letters, three students across one city share stories about where they came from and the places that matter most.
by Olivia H., 826CHI
A piece that explores the connection between stars, legacy, and Black resilience.
by Sergio M, 826 Valencia
This piece reminds us that a smile is not always what it seems.
by Pia, 826NYC
A student reimagines food justice: Fruit Woman must convince Junk Food Man and Cheesecake Boy to eat their fruits and vegetables.
by Kevin G, 826 Valencia
This narrative calls us to see the world through the perspectives of others.
by Fahima Dahir, 826 MSP
A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.
by David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
by Sabrin, Grade 9, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, 9th grader Sabrin discusses how she feels both happy and sad, and thanks nurses nationwide for bringing her peace through their work.
by Sabrin, 826 MSP
The written word is a powerful tool, and this poem shares a few reasons why the author continues to write.
by Regina, 826LA
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem expresses the realization that a cage is not the only obstacle to a bird's freedom.
by Soraya, 826NYC
This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.
by Pretty S, 826 Valencia
Peek into the mind of a student who considers artistic influences in her life.
by Gilbert, 826LA
One teen writes a letter to his 14-year-old self, citing his past fears but looking towards his present, a brighter future.
by Rey, Grade 9, 826 MSP
Aliens give this student superpowers to help him fulfill his greatest dream.
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