In the land of the sun, where culture runs deep,
With a heart so big and a smile that’s sweet,
I am a Dominican, proud of my people,
Strong and bright, like the sun’s warm ripple.
With music and dance, and love in my heart,
On tropical beaches, I set myself apart,
As a warrior of peace, and a defender of right,
With a free spirit, and faith burning bright.
I am a dreamer, with a future full of hope,
A curious mind, learning to cope,
With laughter and play, a playful soul,
A passion for life, and a heart that’s whole.
I am a human, full of love and gratitude,
Blessed with a life that’s rich and good,
With a future that’s bright, and shining too,
Here I stand, proud and true.
So, take my hand, and walk with me,
Through this land, as far as we can see,
Together we’ll explore, and make memories to keep,
For I am a Dominican, and my heart runs deep.
——
En la tierra del sol, donde la cultura es profunda,
Con un corazón tan grande y una sonrisa tan dulce,
Soy dominicano, orgulloso de mi pueblo,
Fuerte y brillante, como la ondulación cálida del sol.
Con música y danza, y amor en mi corazón,
En las playas tropicales, me distingo,
Como guerrero de la paz y defensor del derecho,
Con un espíritu libre y una fe ardiente.
Soy un soñador, con un futuro lleno de esperanza,
Una mente curiosa, aprendiendo a sobrellevar,
Con risas y juegos, y un alma jugueton,
Pasión por la vida, y un corazón completo.
Soy un humano, lleno de amor y gratitud,
Bendecido con una vida rica y buena,
Con un futuro brillante, y soy brillante también,
Aquí estoy, orgulloso y verdadero.
Así que, toma mi mano, y camina conmigo,
A través de esta tierra, hasta donde podemos ver,
Juntos exploraremos, y haremos
Porque soy dominicano, y mi corazón late profundo.
***
This piece can be found in 826 Boston’s original publication, I Find a Place.
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A personal essay that explores the different shades of the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Jizelle Villegas, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
The stunning and vulnerable poem processes feelings of loss, grief, and hope for the future.
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Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
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A student is lifted up by the dance of her ancestors.
by Samantha Wint, Grade 9, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to explore many dualities of the narrator's life.
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 Amalia O'Brien, Grade 10, Novato, CA
A letter to the future Madame President of the United States.
by Pretty S, 826 Valencia
Peek into the mind of a student who considers artistic influences in her life.
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
by Terra C., Grades 10-11, 826NYC
A student recalls their journey on how they discovered their LGBTQIA+ identity.
by Ryker, 826michigan
Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”
by Tammy Fong, 826NYC
A soccer-filled, feud-fueled memoir.
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
by Olivia H., 826CHI
A piece that explores the connection between stars, legacy, and Black resilience.
by Kevin G, 826 Valencia
This narrative calls us to see the world through the perspectives of others.
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In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a sophomore at South High School in Minneapolis gives thanks to Children’s Hospital employees.
by Savannah, 826NYC
Using dialogue and detailed description, this poet investigates whose voices are heard and whose voices are left behind when injustice occurs.
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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 Vanessa Ramon-Ibarra, 826DC
Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.
by Jonas K., 826 National
A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.
by Charles, 826 MSP
A student reflects on his life, stemming from the life of his father.
by Anthony, 826DC
This poem gives insight to what it's like growing up Black in America.
by Jazlyn Moses, 826 National
One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.
by Joanne H, 826 Valencia
In this poem, a student’s experiences in two countries meld together as she seeks out her true home.
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In this poem, a student reflects on their roots and their desire to grow.
by Chris O., Age 15, 826 Valencia
A freshman describes their first day of school on their own.
by Isabella, 826NYC
This poet rejects judgement based on the color of one’s skin.
Alex P., Grade 10, 826 National
A poem to the next president of the U.S. demanding change and advocating for transgender rights.
by Henry, Matthew, & Santiago, 826CHI
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A poem for lovers of love and the moon.
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A poem about the complexity of love exchanged during the holidays.
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