Grades 10–12
PoetryWritingI am more than a small waistline and an hourglass figure
I am powerful and wise
I am they that gave birth to a thousand generations
And forged the way for others like me to be free of oppression
I am many lifetimes of wisdom
I am they that fought a war few cared about but many saw
I am the gentle breeze and the howling wind
I am ferocious and beautiful
A painting of many colors and a stronghold for the weak
I am every color of the rainbow and every flavor of ice cream
I am kissed by the sun and hugged by the moon
I am chaos and peace and everything in between
I am a message, a warning,
I am not to be abused and manhandled
I am to be loved and respected
I will not be forced into the quiet mold of a biased society
This isn’t a man’s world
It’s mine
I am the working woman, the toiling woman
The bend-over-backwards-for-her-children woman
But I am not the stay-at-home mother
I am not the submissive housewife
Cooking-all-day-behind-a-white-picket-fence woman
I am street smart and body smart
Cultivating a world for those like me, after me
I am a mix of races and cultures
And as Staceyann Chin said
I come in too many flavors for one f—ing spoon
I am woman
by Rebecca Darugar, 826NYC
Students examine relationships between art, poetry, politics, and current events, and reflect on personal experiences while writing social justice poetry.
Tariq C., Age 19, 826 Boston
A poet critiques the violent oppression of Africa and African people.
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 Quran Samad, age 15, 826 Valencia
A young Black student's perspective on how it feels to grow up Black in the United States.
by Jeremy Hsiao, 826 National
From the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem reminds activists that "to change everything, we need everyone."
by Katya Torres, The 826 Dallas Project
This bilingual poem explores the harrowing story of a boy working while in school to save his mother.
by Fabian Gonzalez Rubio, Grade 12, Woodburn, Oregon
A baby Jesus doll comes to life in this whimsical story!
by Rockelle Rodd, Grade 11, 826NYC
This poem uses analogies to describe all of the pieces of the writer's personal history.
by Amalia O'Brien, Grade 10, Novato, CA
A letter to the future Madame President of the United States.
Virginia Walker, age 18, 826 Boston
A student writes to a grandfather she never met.
by Sharoya Bracey, 826NYC
In this memoir, the narrator recounts the struggle of being the bigger person in a very small space.
by Timothy T., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student tells the story of how his family has influenced his life.
by Augustus Griffith Jr., 826 National
From the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem explores the aftermath and lasting impacts of school shootings.
by Terry Velasquez, Grade 12, The Bronx, NY
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student shares gratitude for the dedication of nurses and gives “credit where credit is due.”
by Pretty S, 826 Valencia
Peek into the mind of a student who considers artistic influences in her life.
Antonia O., Age 17, 826LA
A young writer's ode to her mother's resilience and hard work.
by Leydi Di Villanueva, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative narrative imagines how the coronavirus views humanity during the pandemic.
by Chris O., Age 15, 826 Valencia
A freshman describes their first day of school on their own.
by Quardasha Mitchell, The 826 Dallas Project
In this compelling poem, the author navigates her relationship with America as a young African-American woman.
by Maya M., Grade 11, Newburg, OR
A student reflects on the memories they made while backpacking.
by Brandon R., 826LA
A student recounts the epic highs and lows of high school track and cross country.
Cate H, Grade 12, 826CHI
A poet sets the stage to showcase her reflections on being trans.
by David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
by Abby S., Grade 11, 826 Boston
An author reflects on their correspondence with their friend from the past.
by Jizelle Villegas, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
The stunning and vulnerable poem processes feelings of loss, grief, and hope for the future.
by Sarah X. Age 18, 826Boston
A rousing public narrative from an author coming to terms with their identity as a young Chinese American woman and what they represent: the community of Boston's Chinatown.
by Liana H., 826LA
The author of this piece shares her journey to feeling confident in her Salvadorean identity.
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 Alexis G., Grade 11
In this narrative, the author uses vibrant language to explore their identity, in all its complexity, through different landscapes.
Leenoa/LeeLee A., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A young poet laments on an unrequited love.
by Daniela Martinez, Grade 12, 826 Boston
A poem exploring an electric, freeing moment shared on the dance floor.
by Isaiah, 826 New Orleans
This student reveals the mysterious origin story of the king cake. Hint: it includes Big Freedia, DJ Chicken Wing, and a massive party.
by Melody Marcano, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on their roots and their desire to grow.
by Elizabeth W, 826 Valencia
Even though we may look different, we remain united with one another.
by Maria, Grade 12, 826 Boston
In this public narrative, a student makes the case for creating community change by building youth centers in her neighborhood.
by George S., Grade 11, 826 Boston
A writer implores people to get outside and touch grass because you never know what you might find!
by Riti Shrestha, 826NYC
In this poem, metaphor is used to describe who the narrator is.
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 Colin Y., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student describes how volunteering saved him from his online prison.
by Karla Amayo, 826LA
This bilingual poem describes the happiness and comfort of visiting family in Mexico.
by Aphra, 826CHI
A student considers realistic happy endings and the representation of LGBTQIA+ youth through the analysis of two webcomics.
by Samantha Wint, Grade 9, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to explore many dualities of the narrator's life.
by Jennifer Alcocer, The 826 Dallas Project
This personal narrative addresses the struggles of students graduating high school during the pandemic.
by Sergio M, 826 Valencia
This piece reminds us that a smile is not always what it seems.
Yamilet J., 826LA
A student reflects on the fear and wonder of becoming a mother.
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 Sylvia C., 826 Valencia
A poet demonstrates their devotion to love.
by Janeth GM, Grade 12, Woodburn, Oregon
This touching poem honors the author’s personal superhero: her mother.
by Navayah, 826 MSP
Through redefining a label, a student reclaims a piece of their identity.
by Xiaoqing Cai, Grade 10, Greenbelt, MD
This dystopian sci-fi story reflects the issues and fears of today.
by Jarmani M., Age 18, 826 Boston
Jarmani reflects on the pain of being rejected from his top high school, but through that challenge, he finds motivation. He grows more focused, disciplined, and driven to succeed in all areas.
by Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
by Julianna C. 826 Dallas Project
This narrative piece contemplates the struggle of immigrants during the pandemic.
by Kaleo V.C., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student looks back on their first day of kindergarten and how they've changed.
by Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
by Raheem, 826 New Orleans
A student compares themself to the place they live, New Orleans, as both evolve through great obstacles.
by Alisson Romero, Grade 11, 826LA
The author of this poignant piece expresses her love and gratitude for her hardworking and supportive parents.
by Gisel J., 826LA
The power of public speaking shines through this student's memoir.
by Bianca Morcho, 826 MSP
A personal essay that explores the different shades of the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Steysi Hailee, 826LA
A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.
by Matthew Inoa, 826 NYC
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student describes how essential workers are the pulse of New York, fueling the city’s hope.
by Isabella, 826NYC
This poet rejects judgement based on the color of one’s skin.
Isabella V.M., Grade 11, 826NYC
A poet imagines their mother growing up and falls in love with a past and present version of their mother.
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 Kayla Wayne, Grade 11, 826NYC
In this poem, a student reflects on their first encounter with forced assimilation.
Hanna D. P., Age 15, 826 Valencia
Our names are part of our identities--what happens when we can't claim them?
by Michaiah Anderson, The 826 Dallas Project
In this poem, a student describes their family origins with an intimate point of view
by Arianna R., Grade 11, 826 Boston
A beautiful ode to home and self.
by Karina Centeno, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
This poem takes an honest look at two sides of the writer's culture.
by Albin C., Age 18, 826 Boston
A student recalls how he was able to take charge and turn his life around.
Kaprice D., Age 15, 826 New Orleans
A writer builds love with her family through a shared special word.
by Oriel, 826NYC
In this poem, an echoing question strikes a chord and reveals the tragic loss held within systemic injustice.
by Jonas K., 826 National
A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.
Annasian Walters, Grade 11-12, 826NYC
A student explores gratitude and love through sharing food.
by Vanessa Ramon-Ibarra, 826DC
Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.
by Jordan, 826 New Orleans
Crawfish, crayfish, or mudbugs. Whatever you call them, the writer of this poem doesn't like them.
by Yazmine-Gizelle, 826DC
This poem uses a fundamental poetry technique, repetition, to share the writer's future plans.
by Karla M., 826LA
A poem for lovers of love and the moon.
by Unique C., Age 15, 826 Valencia
Maya Angelou inspires this student's will to, despite everything, still rise.
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.
Lukoiy, Grade 12, Woodburn, Oregon
A young student channels the voices of the people that are voiceless through the ringing music of poetry.
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
by Justis Porter, age 16, 826 Boston
A neighborhood ode filled with sights and sounds of the poet's street.
Talea W., Age 18, 826 Valencia
A poet imagines their identity and Blackness through the heat of summer.
by Cristina, 826CHI
A student recounts separation with a beloved friend through a nostalgic lens.
by Helen, Grade 12, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a senior at South High School in Minneapolis offers words of support to healthcare workers across the country, including her own mom.
by Earl Williams Jr., The 826 Dallas Project
A powerful poetic piece about the experience of being Black in America.
by Jasmine J, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on her origins to deconstruct social borders and seize her boundless future.
by Olivia H., 826CHI
A piece that explores the connection between stars, legacy, and Black resilience.
by Sally Phan, 826 Boston
A memoir that questions the idea of home and how it changes with time.
by Ryan, Grade 12, 826 Boston
In this public narrative, a student illustrates the hardships his uncle has faced to argue for a path to citizenship.
by Cindy, 826LA
A student compellingly argues that immigrants deserve respect and to be free of discrimination.
by Alanis T., Age 17, 826 Boston
A student reflects on how her relationship's with her parents has influenced her life.
The A.M., Grade 10, 826 Boston
A poem that shines with self-love and acceptance, from the inside out.
by Franny, 826CHI
A student spins through space and a treasure trove of memories in this poem.
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.
Trinity L., Grade 11, 826 New Orleans
A poet explores the warmth and safety they feel with their love.
by Mia Pereyra, 826 Boston
A powerful poem about taking pride in being bilingual.
by Terra C., Grades 10-11, 826NYC
A student recalls their journey on how they discovered their LGBTQIA+ identity.
Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
A trans student reflects on their desire to be male.
Rosman A., age 18, 826CHI
Smells swirl about a student walking around an ice cream shop.
by Jesus Sanchez, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative short horror piece explores the mysteries and danger of a night in the woods.
by Sarah X., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student shares how they've uplifted their community.
by Abner L., 17, 826DC
Abner explores the meaning of his name through color, joy, strength, and heritage, connecting it to culture, family, and faith.
by Tyler, Grade 11, 826DC
In this powerful letter to the United States Congress, this student stands up for representation of young people in government.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
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 Jana C., 826LA
A celebration of self and exploration of core values.
by Lukoiy, Grade 12, Woodburn, OR
A poet speaks out as a voice for change and all those who cannot speak.
by Nhu N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A young writer reconciles their sexuality with the beliefs of their community.
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 Manuel C., 17, 826DC
Manuel sees his name as joyful and strong, linked to faith, fun, and his favorite characters, with two names that reflect who he is at home and at school.
by Lucas Hu, 826 Boston
A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition
by Kayla, 826 Boston
This poem offers a very-real answer to "What do you want to be when you grow up?"
by Raymond A., Grade 10, 826 Boston
A bilingual poem that expresses the love of one's culture and people.
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.
Kenya G., 17, 826LA
A poet relates her experience as a queer woman in the closet to a peacock in the zoo.
by Keyshana, Grade 11, 826CHI
Black strength, beauty, and pride soar in this poem as a student discusses overcoming brutality and discrimination.
by Maggie Munday Odom, Kailua, HI
This poem personifies Earth as a mother coping with the brutalities of climate change.
by Tammy Fong, 826NYC
A soccer-filled, feud-fueled memoir.
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
by Izzy T., 826 Valencia
A student reflects on memories of home and what binds her special community together.
by Ryker, 826michigan
Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”
by Junaynah R., Grade 11, 826NYC
Full of exquisite imagery, this poem explores the idea of second chances.
by Emmerson Todd, Grade 11, Novato High School, Novato, CA
This list poem shares tips to manage the anxiety that can come along with making a phone call.
by Lisbeth M.F., 826NYC
A story about how Marcus becomes Marcela.
by Jazlyn Moses, 826 National
One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.
by Aniah, 826 MSP
A student is lifted up by the dance of her ancestors.
by Alphonsine M., 826LA
A student reflects on the journey and struggle of growing in the face of adversity.
by Jazlin Lopez, Grade 10, Woodburn, OR
This poet draws strength and courage from her grandmother's love.
by Rowan Yordy, Grade 11, 826michigan
This poem uses imagery to describe a small moment of joy.
by Salma Khalif, 826 MSP
A powerful poem that lifts up Black women.
Alex P., Grade 10, 826 National
A poem to the next president of the U.S. demanding change and advocating for transgender rights.
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 Soraya, 826NYC
This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.
by Samuel Wang, Grade 10, 826NYC
A poem about the complexity of love exchanged during the holidays.
by Ava Diaz, Grade 10, Woodburn, OR
A guiding light for all those who wander...
by Tina N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student describes their shark like imaginary friend.
by Yojannie Pizarro, Age 17, 826 Boston
This poem explores the beauty of friendship.
by Charles, 826 MSP
A student reflects on his life, stemming from the life of his father.
by Denisse Reyes Gonzalez, Age 17, 826NYC
Using metaphors, this bilingual poem explores the idea of lost love.
by Kevin G, 826 Valencia
This narrative calls us to see the world through the perspectives of others.
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 Kailyn Espinosa, 826NYC
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student shares how essential workers’ courage and compassion center her during these hectic times.
by Anthony, 826DC
This poem gives insight to what it's like growing up Black in America.
by Camille, 826LA
A student finds her wings in unexpected places in this piece about the transition to college.
by Numan Khan, age 16, 826 Boston
A bilingual "I am" poem filled with conviction and courage.
by Jesus C., Grade 12, 826LA
A poet identifies with a trapped ocelot at the zoo.
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 Corazón, 826 New Orleans
In this essay, a student threads their identity across cultures, histories, and places, engaging with legacies of violence and the movement of people.
by Elsy M.E., Grade 11, 826 Valencia
A poet imagines a better and more harmonious world.
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