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 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.
by Cindy, 826LA
A student compellingly argues that immigrants deserve respect and to be free of discrimination.
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 Karla M., 826LA
A poem for lovers of love and the moon.
by Anjum, 826CHI
A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).
by Amalia O'Brien, Grade 10, Novato, CA
A letter to the future Madame President of the United States.
by Steysi Hailee, 826LA
A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.
by Numan Khan, age 16, 826 Boston
A bilingual "I am" poem filled with conviction and courage.
by Vanessa Ramon-Ibarra, 826DC
Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.
by Aphra, 826CHI
A student considers realistic happy endings and the representation of LGBTQIA+ youth through the analysis of two webcomics.
by Soraya, 826NYC
This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.
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 Anonymous, Grade 8, 826 Boston
In this poem from the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, a student reflects on identity.
by Sally Phan, 826 Boston
A memoir that questions the idea of home and how it changes with time.
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 Mercury, 826CHI
A student explores the representation of LGBTQIA+ minorities and youth in US pop culture.
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 Ricardo L., age 15, 826DC
Ricardo’s name carries strength and emotion, tied to bravery, heat, and a sad color, with playful and personal versions at school and home.
by Lucas Hu, 826 Boston
A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition
by Bianca Morcho, 826 MSP
A personal essay that explores the different shades of the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Yazmine-Gizelle, 826DC
This poem uses a fundamental poetry technique, repetition, to share the writer's future plans.
by Raymond A., Grade 10, 826 Boston
A bilingual poem that expresses the love of one's culture and people.
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 Melody Marcano, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on their roots and their desire to grow.
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
by Navayah, 826 MSP
Through redefining a label, a student reclaims a piece of their identity.
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 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 Lizy A., 15, 826DC
Lizy describes her name as a promise of freedom and beauty connected to the sea and family, with unique meanings at school and at home.
by Alphonsine M., 826LA
A student reflects on the journey and struggle of growing in the face of adversity.
by Jizelle Villegas, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
The stunning and vulnerable poem processes feelings of loss, grief, and hope for the future.
by Ryker, 826michigan
Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”
by Mariah Valenzuela, Minneapolis, MN
From the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poet uses her voice to speak up for those who have been silenced in the indigenous community.
by Isabella, 826NYC
This poet rejects judgement based on the color of one’s skin.
by Jonas K., 826 National
A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Justis Porter, age 16, 826 Boston
A neighborhood ode filled with sights and sounds of the poet's street.
by Kevin G, 826 Valencia
This narrative calls us to see the world through the perspectives of others.
by Kalyn Jackson, 826 New Orleans
Through this short story, Kalyn explores ideas of home and change in an altered world.
by Jason, 826michigan
Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".
by Jahruwach Hamilton, Grade 10, 826NYC
In this rousing poem, a student asserts her strength and worth as a woman.
by Terra C., Grades 10-11, 826NYC
A student recalls their journey on how they discovered their LGBTQIA+ identity.
by Chris O., Age 15, 826 Valencia
A freshman describes their first day of school on their own.
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 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 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.
Yashasa Fluker, Grade 9, 826 New Orleans
A student describes the eeriness of liminal spaces.
by Rey, Grade 9, 826 MSP
Aliens give this student superpowers to help him fulfill his greatest dream.
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 Christian Z., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.
by Chidi A., Age 12, 826 Valencia
A poet hears the weight of history like music when playing basketball.
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
Alex P., Grade 10, 826 National
A poem to the next president of the U.S. demanding change and advocating for transgender rights.
by Sergio M, 826 Valencia
This piece reminds us that a smile is not always what it seems.
by Tammy Fong, 826NYC
A soccer-filled, feud-fueled memoir.
by Pia, 826NYC
A student reimagines food justice: Fruit Woman must convince Junk Food Man and Cheesecake Boy to eat their fruits and vegetables.
Kaprice D., Age 15, 826 New Orleans
A writer builds love with her family through a shared special word.
by Samantha Wint, Grade 9, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to explore many dualities of the narrator's life.
by Elizabeth W, 826 Valencia
Even though we may look different, we remain united with one another.
by Unique C., Age 15, 826 Valencia
Maya Angelou inspires this student's will to, despite everything, still rise.
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 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 Aniah, 826 MSP
A student is lifted up by the dance of her ancestors.
by Maggie Munday Odom, Kailua, HI
This poem personifies Earth as a mother coping with the brutalities of climate change.
by Caroline, 826 Valencia
A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.
Lyric M., Grade 9, 826 New Orleans
A student describes how the bright sun and a calming tree bring her peace.
by Olivia H., 826CHI
A piece that explores the connection between stars, legacy, and Black resilience.
by David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
by Charles, 826 MSP
A student reflects on his life, stemming from the life of his father.
by Pretty S, 826 Valencia
Peek into the mind of a student who considers artistic influences in her life.
by Perla C., 15, 826DC
Perla connects her name to the sea, summer, and soft colors. It reflects her quiet strength, curiosity, and the different identities she carries at school and home.
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 Jasmine J, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on her origins to deconstruct social borders and seize her boundless future.
by Samuel Wang, Grade 10, 826NYC
A poem about the complexity of love exchanged during the holidays.
by Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
by Fahima Dahir, 826 MSP
A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.
by Salma Khalif, 826 MSP
A powerful poem that lifts up Black women.
by Sharoya Bracey, 826NYC
In this memoir, the narrator recounts the struggle of being the bigger person in a very small space.
Leenoa/LeeLee A., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A young poet laments on an unrequited love.
by Jose S., 15, 826DC
Jose’s name means lord of the world, filled with warmth and joy. At school he’s Jose, at home Bladimir, showing how his name carries both family roots and personal power.
by Jana C., 826LA
A celebration of self and exploration of core values.
by Jazlyn Moses, 826 National
One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.
by Anthony, 826DC
This poem gives insight to what it's like growing up Black in America.
Amara, 826 New Orleans
An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.
Zain L., Age 13, 826CHI
A poet fights to understand a crucial question.
by Sabrin, Grade 10, 826 MSP
The written word is a powerful tool, and this poem shares a few reasons why the author continues to write.
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