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Interviewed by Dhayana Alejandrina. Lead Poetry and Cultural Collaborator at Noire Magazine. Today, I am excited to present a special interview with Carmen Danae Azor, a multidisciplinary artist specializing in video, performance, photography, and earth art. With a profound commitment to ocean conservation and environmental justice advocacy, she has spearheaded transformative initiatives through various collaborative projects. Carmen combines her artistic creativity with a passion for biodiversity conservation and climate action, aiming to foster positive change globally. Why this interview, you may ask? As someone born and raised in the Dominican Republic, nature has always been very important to me. The other day, I discussed the effect nature had on my childhood and stated that, “I am grateful for the way my parents exposed me to thebeauty of nature and the lessons she bestows. It is one thing to admire nature, but a completely different one to respect it and want to take care of it.” Now, as an adult, I have learned that nature is a reflection of us, and we are a reflection of her. In “Spiritual Ecology,” a book Rudolf Steiner that I have been reading, he emphasizes the interdependence between humans and nature. He argues that humans are an integral part of the evolving natural world and that this world surrounds us, allowing us to rediscover ourselves within it. Steiner’s work highlights the necessity of a balancedrelationship where neither exploitation of the Earth nor seeing ourselves as mere irritants is appropriate. Instead, we should strive for a conscious equilibrium, understanding that our existence and the well-being of nature are deeply intertwined. With this important perspective in mind—that “our existence and the well-being of nature are deeply intertwined”—I hope this interview inspires you to consider the ways in which you can contribute to environmental conservation andawareness. Let’s explore how our individual efforts can collectively make a significant impact in preserving the beauty and vitality of our natural surroundings. An interview conversation with Carmen Danae Azor Thank so much for joining me in a very important conversation about nature and environmental justice, Carmen! I would love to start by discussing your upbringing a bit. How have your culture and environment played a role in your journey as an Environmental Justice Advocate? My mother is from Samaná, Dominican Republic, and my father is from Spain, placing me at the intersection of worlds. As a diplomat’s daughter, we moved every few years— Costa Rica, Uruguay, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Spain, and the United States. Each move offered a new lens, revealing the beautiful diversity of our planet. Growing up light-skinned in a world marred by colorism and racism, I was painfully aware of the privileges and expectations imposed upon me. My hair, a symbol of my Afro- Caribbean heritage, was straightened weekly to conform to Eurocentric ideals. These experiences taught me the harsh realities of assimilation and the cost of invisibility. Returning to Ayiti, my mother’s homeland, after nearly a decade away, was a pivotal moment. The island’s beauty was overshadowed by the pervasive presence of plastics, pollution, and environmental degradation. This stark reality cemented my passion for environmental justice, merging my personal experiences with a commitment to fight forsustainable and equitable solutions. Through my art and advocacy, I aim to address the intertwined issues of environmental degradation and social inequality, striving for a future where both people and nature can thrive. What does it mean to you to be a multidisciplinary artist? Being a multidisciplinary artist means embracing the freedom to express myself through various forms and mediums. It allows me to weave together different threads of creativity —visual art, writing, performance, and activism—into a tapestry that speaks to the complexities of our world. This approach not only broadens my creative horizons but also deepens my understanding of the interconnectedness of social, cultural, and environmental issues. What is the “why” behind your work? The “why” behind my work is rooted in my desire to disrupt the status quo, and to tell stories that matter. Growing up in a world marked by environmental degradation, social injustices, and cultural erasure, I feel a profound responsibility to use my art as a vehicle for change. I strive to amplify the voices of marginalized communities, highlight the beauty and resilience of diverse cultures, and advocate for environmental justice. My work is a call to action, urging people to see beyond their immediate reality and to engage with the broader struggles that shape our world; it’s about decolonization and unlearning. Ultimately, my art is about connection—connecting people, to their environment, and to the deeper truths that lie beneath the surface of our everyday lives. Through my multidisciplinary approach, I aim to create a space where dialogue, understanding, and transformation can flourish. Growing up in the Dominican Republic, surrounded by the beauty of its nature and fruits, and influenced by my parents and grandmothers, I developed a profound connection with nature, seeing it as a reflection of myself. How has nature shaped you? What is one of the biggest lessons it has taught you? Having Taino ancestry like we do means that we are aware, and in touch, with our deep and ancestral connection to Nature and other species. Nature has taught me resilience. Watching the cycles of growth and renewal, I have learned that even in the face of adversity, life finds a way to persist and flourish.The way a tree bends with the wind yet stands firm, or how a river carves its path through the toughest rock, has shown me the power of adaptability and perseverance. One of the other biggest lessons nature has taught me is interconnectedness. Everything in nature is part of a larger web of life, where each element plays a crucial role in the ecosystem’s balance. This understanding has profoundly influenced my approach to environmental justice and activism. It reminds me that our actions, however small, have a ripple effect, impacting the broader world around us. This lesson of interconnectedness drives my commitment to creating a more sustainable

INTERVIEWED BY DHAYANA ALEJANDRINA   Welcome, Noire Family, In this interview, I had the pleasure to sit down with the talented and amazing writer, CarolLaine M. Garcia., as she offers a captivating glimpse into her inspirational journey, delving into her roots, the reasons driving her creative endeavors, exciting future projects, and more.   Please join me in welcoming CarolLaine M. Garcia. to Afrique Noire Magazine!   Can you share a bit about your background and what initially inspired you to pursue writing/poetry?   I’m a first-generation Dominican-American immigrant woman who came to America on my mother’s back to chase the American dream. Much of my family had already emigrated, and my brother, mom, and I arrived on travel visas. Years later, after an encounter with immigration authorities on a summer visit, I was forcibly sent back to the DR for a year while my case cooled off. Upon my reunion with my family in the States, my mom was on a mission to acquire citizenship for us and halted our travels so no one would risk deportation. All of those changes between countries and school were incredibly challenging, as I adjusted to leaving my island and father behind and adjusted to the American life. It was writing letters to my father that first awakened this gift within me. Through the ups and downs of my life, writing has always kept me connected to myself and the happiness I’ve so desperately sought to find.   How does your identity, including cultural background, influence your writing and the themes you explore? In what ways do you navigate the intersection of your personal identity and the broader cultural context in your work?   After completing my PhD, I stepped away from writing for quite some time. The rigor of my doctoral studies eventually wore me down, dampening my passion for reading and writing. As I drifted from writing, I lost touch with myself and my ability to connect with my truth and experiences.Despite always harboring a desire to be a writer, I found myself in a “successful” consulting career, viewing it as a significant milestone in my American success story. However, it was during the pandemic, with the help of modern technology, that I stumbled upon authors who finally resembled me. This discovery sparked a realization that I too possessed a voice and a remarkable story to share.   In my writing, I delve into my intersectional identities, the distinctiveness of my upbringing, and my journey through the American experience. Through my words, I strive to break free from the societal labels that confine me, embracing a more expansive version of myself—the divine queen within.   In my poetry, I contemplate the experience of belonging to no group but oneself, reveling in appreciating the diversity of nature, whether in human company or not. In essence, my writing allows me to embody my true, multifaceted self.     How would you describe your creative process? Do you have any specific rituals or routines that help you get into the writing mindset?   Crafted over the years, my approach to writing has evolved into a practice of romancing my words. For me, writing is no just a creative outlet; it’s a spiritual and ancestral connection. Through my writing, I honor my ancestor father and other ancestors, recognizing the hurdles they overcame so that I could freely express myself. In my writing space, I adorn the walls with old family photos, including ones of myself as a baby, alongside inspiring art. Each piece holds significance: a print of a wild mane in a field symbolizes my “untamed” years on the island, while a sunsetty picture of the Brooklyn Bridge represents my entry into the American experience through New York. Another piece depicts just the hips of a thick woman, adorned with a massive butterfly—an allusion to the freedom of expression I cherish.To enhance my writing experience, I light candles and immerse myself in the soothing sounds of lo-fi or reggaeton. Recently, I’ve come to see my writing as an integral part of my being, a necessary and fulfilling practice that enriches my life.     Who are your literary or poetic influences, and how have they shaped your work?   Since I was a young girl in America, I’ve been an indiscriminate reader. My obsessions lie in genres that depict women overcoming their fears, poetry that explores the gamut of human emotions and experiences, and non-fiction books chronicling authors’ triumphs over their lives and the limiting narratives they faced. I’m also drawn to memoirs that offer diverse perspectives, broadening my understanding of humanity. Through these writings, I’ve been able to cultivate a more liberated and bold version of myself, almost as a rehearsal for the embodiment that typically follows.   What challenges do you face as a writer/poet, and how do you overcome them?   The initial challenge was accepting myself as a writer. I had to overcome the notion that pursuing writing, something I hadn’t studied and divergent from the typical American pursuit of maximizing income, was a valid path for me. It required extensive therapy and coaching to believe in my ability to blossom late in my writing journey. Today, I find myself exploring my creative blocks around writing as much as I do my daily experiences and musings.     Could you share one of your favorite pieces or an excerpt from a project that holds personal significance? What does it mean to you?   During my first writer’s retreat, I penned a piece prompted by the task of creating a character embodying our essence rather than a literal self-introduction. This exercise symbolizes to me the essence of freedom as the quest for happiness. Through the struggles of my immigrant journey to the US, a passion ignited within me to explore and understand myself, culminating in the realization of the woman I was destined to become: free. The Mountain Climber Her name was Mountain Climber. She just loved the feeling of crowning a

INTERVIEWED BY DHAYANA ALEJANDRINA Welcome, Noire Family, In this interview, I had the pleasure to sit down with the most pleasant mental health advocate and writer, Diana Resendiz,  from Phoenix, Arizon, as she offers a captivating glimpse into her inspirational journey, delving into her roots, the reasons driving her creative endeavors, exciting future projects, and more. Please join me in welcoming Diana Resendiz to Afrique Noire Magazine! Can you share a bit about your background and what initially inspired you to pursue writing/poetry? As the child of Mexican immigrants, I spent much of my childhood alone as my parents worked long hours, and being an only child, reading became one of my primary pastimes. I began collecting Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul books during this time, a collection that grew significantly over the years. Poetry, in particular, resonated with me, as it allowed me to forge connections through the written word. Despite my early aspirations to become a writer, I believed it to be an unattainable dream. My family encouraged me to pursue a career they deemed ‘safe’ and lucrative. Consequently, I spent most of my twenties working in inventory financing. However, about three years ago, I made a life-changing decision to pivot towards my creative passions. At the age of 33, I self-published my first poetry book, marking a significant milestone in my journey. How does your identity, including cultural background, influence your writing and the themes you explore? In what ways do you navigate the intersection of your personal identity and the broader cultural context in your work? I find joy in chronicling my journey as a first-generation Mexican-American, delving into the complexities of navigating between two cultures. The children of immigrants often bear the weight of high expectations, a burden that can lead to the unlearning of harmful cultural norms. My teenage years were marked by a battle with clinical depression and a harrowing suicide attempt. These experiences have fueled my passion for dismantling mental health stigmas within my community. I believe in the healing power of writing, reading, and therapy, and strive to inspire others to embark on their own journeys of healing and self-discovery. How would you describe your creative process? Do you have any specific rituals or routines that help you get into the writing mindset? Slow mornings, coffee shops, people-watching at plazas, and layovers at the airport tend to inspire me. I often jot down random thoughts in my notes app and flesh them out later. While I make time for writing, I also appreciate the spontaneous nature of creativity. Who are your literary or poetic influences, and how have they shaped your work? I find inspiration in the works of Elisabet Velasquez. Her commitment to authenticity and self-truth resonates deeply with me. Velasquez’s writing has provided me with a sense of safety as I navigate writing about my upbringing, culture, and the use of Spanglish in my work. Similarly, Toni Morrison’s fearless approach to storytelling, unconstrained by the “white gaze,” has been a profound influence on me. I am actively learning to emulate her fearlessness in my own writing journey. What challenges do you face as a writer/poet, and how do you overcome them? I still grapple with imposter syndrome, often feeling like I’m not a legitimate writer because I lack an MFA. Many of my peers have extensive experience in the writing industry, while I am relatively new to the arts and writing space. Being a full-time writer also means embracing the entrepreneurial side, which involves self-promotion and staying creative while ensuring financial stability. However, the more I share my journey and consistently show up as a writer, the more I am able to alleviate those fears. My advice is to not let fear hinder your creativity or your ability to promote your work. Could you share one of your favorite pieces or an excerpt from a project that holds personal significance? What does it mean to you? I self-published my debut poetry and essay collection last year, and one of its most cherished elements for me is the preface. In it, I aimed to convey the significance of publishing this book and the personal journey that led me to this point. I wanted to articulate why it took me longer than some to believe in my ability to make this dream a reality. The preface, in essence, serves as an introduction to who I am, offering readers a glimpse into my life before delving into my poetry: “As I got older, I longed for validation in the immigrant community I grew up in and desired acceptance from my peers outside that community. Eventually, my Spanglish began to feel like a burden; it was proof that I wasn’t American nor Mexican enough. In my head, that also translated to not good enough in a more general sense. I struggled to balance my parent’s expectations, society’s expectations, cultural expectations, and my own aspirations. I spent years wanting to be the perfect version of what everyone else wanted me to be. I did everything I could to avoid feeling like a burden. Comparing myself to individuals I thought I should be like without understanding myself as an individual diminished my confidence to zero. I craved feeling seen. Because I didn’t know how to express that, negative thoughts and a lack of confidence hindered my creativity and authenticity for years. Looking back on my childhood and adolescence, I wish I had been kinder to myself. I wish I had cared less about others’ opinions of me and had understood that finding and following my own path has always been and will always be an inside job. My self-expression, authenticity, and vulnerability are key factors in how I show up for myself and others. These factors apply to all things I love, writing being one of those things. My writing was never meant for the old, white, male authors I have nothing in common with but was forced to read in high school.

INTERVIEWED BY DHAYANA ALEJANDRINA   Welcome, Noire Family, In this interview, I had the pleasure to sit down with the talented and amazing writer, Rosario Bird, as she offers a captivating glimpse into her inspirational journey, delving into her roots, the reasons driving her creative endeavors, exciting future projects, and more.     Please join me in welcoming Rosario Bird to Afrique Noire Magazine!   Can you share a bit about your background and what initially inspired you to pursue writing/poetry?   My inspiration to pursue writing and poetry stems from my love for music. Growing up in a musically inclined environment exposed me to various artists and genres, which in turn fueled my creative storytelling. Additionally, my own personal emotions and thoughts, as well as a fascination with fantasy and escapism, played a significant role in inspiring my work. I draw inspiration from poets and writers such as Warsan Shire, Divya Adu, Nayirrah Waheed, Nikki Giovanni, Edwidge Danticat, James Baldwin, Ntozake Shange, Ursula Rucker and other captivating storytellers who longed for a listening ear and a seeing eye.     How does your identity, including cultural background, influence your writing and the themes you explore? In what ways do you navigate the intersection of your personal identity and the broader cultural context in your work?   While I may be young, there is still much for me to discover about myself, including my heritage and ancestral lineage. Thus far, my cultural background and identity haven’t played a significant role in my writing, but it’s an aspect I am actively exploring and integrating into my work,   How would you describe your creative process? Do you have any specific rituals or routines that help you get into the writing mindset?   My creative process doesn’t require much. Inspiration comes naturally at times, while other times it’s elusive. I find that listening to music, watching movies and interviews, and reading or listening to spoken word poetry help set the mood. I also enjoy taking solitary walks, during which I often stumble upon new ideas or notice words and images that spark my imagination. I jot down these ideas in my notes app to revisit later.   Who are your literary or poetic influences, and how have they shaped your work?   Some of my poetic influences include Warsan Shire, Edwidge Danticat, Nayyirah Waheed, and Ntozake Shange. Their ability to convey emotions so beautifully and eloquently is deeply inspiring to me. I admire how they pull readers in with vivid imagery, which has greatly influenced my own work.   What challenges do you face as a writer/poet, and how do you overcome them?   One of the most challenging things I face as a writer is definitely writer’s block. It can feel like a killer at times. To overcome it, I often watch a movie, listen to music, or use writing prompts to help me out of that rut.   Could you share one of your favorite pieces or an excerpt from a project that holds personal significance? What does it mean to you?   This piece I’m sharing is titled “Koyaanisqatsi,” meaning “Life Out of Balance” in Hopi Indian. It holds significant meaning for me as it’s part of an upcoming book I’ve been working on for the past two years, written back in 2022. The name and poem were inspired by Godfrey Reggio’s 1982 apocalyptic film of the same name and Madonna’s “Ray Of Light” music video.   “KOYAANSIQATSI”   How much time do we have between man and the sun, between blue skies and the earthly brown? We’re moving and moving, and stopping and collapsing backwards into stolen stars and airbrushed window sills. Rushing for the same light at the end of an overt chaos in cities where buildings may fall, and in facilities where we may recover or die. Humans deal with strange things and dark days catch us by our tired feet, pulling us to a ceaseless fire. We take civilized wars of our spirits and our skin and of our lives into locked boxes filled with cemented dreams and decorated pillows down to open cavities of the earth. Some of us wake up in fear, some of us time travel, some run into the deep seas of our minds to feel safe as that safety saves us from dwelling in violent reality.   What advice would you offer to aspiring writers or poets aiming to leave their imprint on the literary world?   The advice I have for any aspiring writer/poet is to use the resources that are at your disposal to get your work out there! Post on social media and stay consistent, network with others who share your passions, and most importantly, STAY WEIRD!   Can you share details about your ongoing writing projects? What themes or ideas are you currently exploring?   I am currently working on two books simultaneously, or at least attempting to. However, the primary focus is on a book that delves into themes of femininity and womanhood.   How do you perceive the role of writers and poets in today’s society?   I believe that the role of writers and poets in today’s society is to document and record the present moment. This is particularly important in the face of ongoing global crises, including multiple genocides. Through our writing, we create a tangible record of events, leaving behind evidence that serves as a testament to the truth. In a world where circumstances can change rapidly, our words provide a lasting anchor of reality.   Give yourself flowers, what is something you feel proud of when you think about your creative gift?   I take pride in my creative gift, particularly in my ability to evoke emotion and imagery through my writing. It brings me joy to know that readers appreciate my work and are moved to leave kind words of feedback.   ABOUT ROSARIO BIRD   Rosario Bird is a Haitian/American poet, writer, and blooming flower, born and raised

INTERVIEWED BY DHAYANA ALEJANDRINA   Welcome, Noire Family, In this interview, I had the pleasure to sit down with Tayler Simon – the founder of Liberation is Lit, a well-established book blog and community focused on social justice, she offers a captivating glimpse into her inspirational journey, delving into her roots, the reasons driving her creative endeavors, exciting future projects, and more. Please join me in welcoming Tayler Simon to Afrique Noire Magazine!     Can you share a bit about your background and what initially inspired you to pursue writing/poetry?   I have always been a writer, but I made the decision to self-publish my first book of poetry when I launched my bookstore, Liberation is Lit. Among the programs offered through my bookstore is self-publishing book coaching, aimed at empowering writers to utilize their stories as catalysts for initiating social movements.   How does your identity, including cultural background, influence your writing and the themes you explore? In what ways do you navigate the intersection of your personal identity and the broader cultural context in your work?   Being a Black woman is central to the ideas I explore in my writing. In my poetry book, I delve into the experience of Black women, addressing how we are conditioned to perceive our emotions as burdens that must be concealed to protect others. I am committed to unlearning this narrative and striving to live authentically. Additionally, my other writings revolve around themes of social justice, including antiracism, anticapitalism, and liberation for all oppressed groups. I am dedicated to amplifying these voices and perspectives, both in my own work and through the selection of literature available at my bookstore.     How would you describe your creative process? Do you have any specific rituals or routines that help you get into the writing mindset?   As a self-employed individual, I prioritize setting aside dedicated days for writing. To maintain focus during these sessions, I often utilize 20-minute writing sprints, as I tend to get easily distracted. Afterwards, in a gesture reminiscent of childhood, I reward myself for my writing accomplishments by placing a star sticker on my calendar.     Who are your literary or poetic influences, and how have they shaped your work?   I have a multitude of literary influences! I deeply admire Toni Morrison’s utilization of magical realism, portraying Black characters simply existing within their own narratives. Additionally, I am captivated by Zelda Lockhart’s exploration of the complexities within Black families. Both of these authors have significantly inspired the novel I am currently developing.     What challenges do you face as a writer/poet, and how do you overcome them? Despite self-publishing two books, I continue to grapple with imposter syndrome when labeling myself as a writer. This feeling is especially pronounced during periods of creative stagnation, such as the one I am currently experiencing. While I have been writing, I have not been actively working on any of my works in progress (WIPs). This lack of progress exacerbates my self-doubt and insecurities. Furthermore, the demands of running my startup bookstore, which is my full-time job, have intensified recently. Struggling to make ends meet has placed me in survival mode, leaving little time or mental energy for writing. This added pressure further compounds the challenge of finding inspiration and motivation to write.     Could you share one of your favorite pieces or an excerpt from a project that holds personal significance? What does it mean to you?   One day I realized that God was in my self and when I started believing in me I began having true faith in Her This stirring poem, titled “Loved Her Fiercely” in homage to Ntozake Shange, finds its place in my debut book, “Phases.” It holds deep significance for me as it mirrors the ongoing journey I’ve embarked upon as a self-published author and entrepreneur. Amidst inquiries from my family about my decision to leave my job and uncertainties regarding financial stability, my unwavering belief in myself and my mission remains resolute. Despite the challenges, I persist, ensuring that I fulfill my financial commitments even at the expense of personal pay. Through moments of doubt and uncertainty, I’ve unearthed a profound connection between self-belief and faith in a higher power. To me, authentic faith isn’t solely about blind conviction but about confronting the unknown with resilience and trust in one’s capabilities. This poignant revelation permeates my book, serving as a testament to the strength of self-belief and perseverance amidst life’s trials.     What advice would you offer to aspiring writers or poets aiming to leave their imprint on the literary world?   Believe in yourself and your story. If you don’t, no one else will. Remember, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Cultivating a supportive writing community is crucial for staying encouraged and inspired along the way.     Can you share details about your ongoing writing projects? What themes or ideas are you currently exploring?   I am currently juggling three projects. Firstly, I’m compiling a short story collection based on the pieces I crafted during one of my writing groups. These stories are particularly enjoyable because they allowed me to stretch my imagination and inhabit diverse experiences. Secondly, I’m immersed in writing a novel centered around a generational curse afflicting a family of Black women. This narrative delves into the fear of embracing one’s own voice and power. Lastly, I’m developing a follow-up book to my guide on self-publishing, titled “Writing Our Truths: A Guide to Self-Publishing for BIPOC Writers.” This resource aims to assist writers in utilizing storytelling for community organizing and movement-building endeavors.     How do you perceive the role of writers and poets in today’s society?   The role of the writer/poet is to serve as a mirror held up to society. Do we like what we see? What parts do we love and celebrate (or are learning to love and celebrate)? What parts do we need to

INTERVIEWED BY DHAYANA  ALEJANDRINA  Welcome, Noire Family, In this interview, I had the pleasure to sit down with the talented and amazing writer, Fedana Toussaint, as she offers a captivating glimpse into her inspirational journey, delving into her roots, the reasons driving her creative endeavors, exciting future projects, and more. Please join me in welcoming Fedana Toussaint to Afrique Noire Magazine! Can you share a bit about your background and what initially inspired you to pursue writing/poetry?   I am a Haitian poet from Toronto, Ontario. Through numerous evolutions, writing and connecting have become my means of making sense of it all. I observe countless individuals experiencing pain, love, longing, grief, and silence, often struggling to articulate their emotions, while I find myself equipped with the words. In a world where love seems scarce, I possess an abundance. Writing is my responsibility; it’s using a natural gift to remind people that the human experience isn’t as solitary as it may appear. We all undergo moments of grief, love, pain, and longing, all seeking connection. I willingly position myself as that bridge to connection.   How does your identity, including cultural background, influence your writing and the themes you explore? In what ways do you navigate the intersection of your personal identity and the broader cultural context in your work?   My life journey has been marked by displacement, discrimination, and the stifling of trauma that doesn’t align with societal norms. I’ve encountered the distinct misogyny known as misogynoir at every turn. Having navigated both the artistic realm and the corporate world, particularly in the legal field, I’ve felt the sting of being a Black woman who doesn’t conform to expectations. I write from a place of understanding the struggles of little Black girls silenced by their abusers, of daughters abandoned by their fathers, and of children forced to raise themselves. My words echo the experiences of Black women navigating a world that too often dismisses their qualifications despite their education. My depth of understanding stems from a wealth of lived experiences. I speak for the heartbroken, the lovers navigating a dating scene devoid of genuine love, and those who have lost love to violence and ego. I don’t detach myself from my work; instead, I intertwine my experiences with my art. People don’t just want to be lectured; they want to be engaged, felt, and heard. I proudly declare that my art achieves just that, delving deeper into the human experience than mere “writing” ever could.   How would you describe your creative process? Do you have any specific rituals or routines that help you get into the writing mindset?   My creative process is honesty. I navigate my own truth and connect it with the truth of others. Whether it’s at a coffee shop, with music in my ears, or quietly feeling the world around me, my approach is organic – I simply live life as it comes.   Who are your literary or poetic influences, and how have they shaped your work?   Nikki Giovanni is my favorite voice to listen to. She captures life and stories in a surreal way. Surrealism is not just for visual artists; it does wonders in poetry, and she masters her voice so well that you could read a piece and be transformed by it. You could find yourself in her words, and that’s important. Maya Angelou lived so much life, our stories are so similar that sometimes I feel like I’m reading a biography of things I experienced and the alchemy of making them beautiful. She inspires me by showing me that my story is enough and that it doesn’t end at the bad stuff. Langston Hughes feels like a sermon on blackness and beauty. He speaks to his time so well, and I aspire to speak to mine just as clearly and beautifully. Bell Hooks and Toni Morrison bring such intellect to their prose and poetry that you learn a hundred things in every sentence. I aspire to capture thoughts profoundly and to have them be adapted into such beautiful and impactful images. I want to be the poet that curriculums are created for, and it’s because of them. Pablo Coelho is the first time I ever read the word Alchemist and I am forever transformed.   What challenges do you face as a writer/poet, and how do you overcome them?   My greatest challenge lies in believing in my voice and overcoming the perfectionism in my work. I often question whether my intentions will resonate through the stroke of my pen, and whether my output is either excessive or inadequate. There’s a persistent fear that my message won’t reach the audience in time. To combat these doubts, I confront the reality that imposter syndrome isn’t just a concept—it’s a tangible struggle. Despite my inner doubts, I remind myself that I deserve to be heard and felt, regardless of how often I try to convince myself otherwise.   Could you share one of your favorite pieces or an excerpt from a project that holds personal significance? What does it mean to you?   I heard a black woman scream today She was on her way to the furnace To lay the sun at its feet And command the fire to let her sunshine I watched her black man panic at her side She stares at him and tells him Adam keep your damn feet on the ground And your wits about you I need one of us conscious So blink now if you must Cause they will take our sun And call me nothing but corpse Nothing but black hole If you don’t keep your eyes on me I watched beings dressed in white and blue Surround the cloud where she laid her brown She halts her protest to the pain to pray “GOD PLEASE LET THE WATER THAT WASH ME” NOT THROW ME OUT OF THIS BODY” Her belly entered the light first She asks for comfort And

INTERVIEWED BY DHAYANA ALEJANDRINA Welcome, Noire Family,   In this interview, I had the pleasure to sit down with the talented and amazing writer and mental health advocate, Kris Crews, as she offers a captivating glimpse into her inspirational journey, delving into her roots, the reasons driving her creative endeavors, exciting future projects, and more.  Please join me in welcoming Kris Crews to another episode of Noire Poetry Series!   Can you share a bit about your background and what initially inspired you to pursue writing/poetry? Writing became my initial form of therapy during my high school years. Struggling to express my feelings and cope with stress, I turned to pen and paper as a means of solace. Each time I wrote, a sense of freedom enveloped me, and the chaos of life began to unravel into clarity. Journaling became my compass, guiding me to forge deeper connections with myself and others. It’s through writing that I feel most connected to my true self. With a pen in hand and paper before me, I tap into vulnerability, authenticity, and raw emotion, allowing me to navigate the depths of my innermost thoughts and feelings. How does your identity, including cultural background, influence your writing and the themes you explore? In what ways do you navigate the intersection of your personal identity and the broader cultural context in your work? As a Black woman, I’ve discovered that much of my writing revolves around themes of mental health and self-preservation. The world often demands an extraordinary amount from Black women, creating a landscape that can feel overwhelming to navigate. Dealing with imposter syndrome, the pressure to fulfill endless expectations, and the mandate to remain perpetually strong can be particularly daunting. There’s a pervasive fear that we aren’t deserving of more. Despite encountering these harsh realities, I’ve found that they’ve propelled me toward greater bravery and intentionality in believing in myself. Each obstacle I’ve faced has taught me invaluable lessons: that I am capable, intelligent, and that strength doesn’t always mean shouldering burdens alone, but rather striving to do my best in every circumstance. These realizations have empowered me to uplift others, encouraging them not to confine themselves within predetermined boundaries. Instead, I advocate for creating space, whether it’s at the table or within society, when it isn’t readily available. It’s through this journey of self-discovery and advocacy that I’ve found my voice, and I’m committed to amplifying the voices of others who may feel marginalized or unheard. How would you describe your creative process? Do you have any specific rituals or routines that help you get into the writing mindset? I make a personal commitment to write at least three times a week for a minimum of 30 minutes, allowing for more if the creative energy is flowing. Before diving into my writing sessions, I take a moment to meditate and set clear intentions for what I hope to achieve. Occasionally, I’ll complement this practice by playing soothing music in the background to further center my focus. This dedicated time serves as a sanctuary for me, a space where I can effectively tune out external distractions and immerse myself fully in the act of writing. Whether the output is substantial or not, I embrace each session as a victory. This mindset encourages me to persist in my writing endeavors, knowing that every effort contributes to my growth as a writer. Who are your literary or poetic influences, and how have they shaped your work? Alex Elle, Rob Hill Sr, Toni Morrison, Chidera Eggerue, and Diego Perez have all taught me to confront my fears and embrace new perspectives. Their wisdom encourages me to face challenges head-on, allowing me to feel more and fear less about the outcomes, and to simply start. What challenges do you face as a writer/poet, and how do you overcome them? Writer’s block, a common obstacle creatives encounter, has often hindered my progress. In the past, I found myself paralyzed by self-doubt or the mistaken belief that my initial writing must be flawless. However, I’ve adopted a new approach: I now view writing as a tool to capture my emotions and thoughts in the moment. Rather than striving for perfection from the start, I allow myself to freely express myself, knowing that I can revisit and refine my work later with a fresh perspective and a meticulous eye. Could you share one of your favorite pieces or an excerpt from a project that holds personal significance? What does it mean to you? One of my favorite pieces I’ve written comes from my first book, “You Owe it To Yourself.” It reads, “Silly of me to be afraid of how it may end when I haven’t even started.” It’s a reminder to never sell myself short and to pursue something even if I’m unsure of the outcome. There’s so much for me to experience and embrace, and I don’t want to hinder myself from experiencing it because of what I think may or may not happen. What advice would you offer to aspiring writers or poets aiming to leave their imprint on the literary world? To go for it and allow yourself to be seen! Share your work because you never know where it can take you. There are various metrics we consider when it comes to defining success—like how many people like your work or how much you’re getting paid for it. While these metrics hold importance, especially for financial sustainability, it’s equally crucial to release work that resonates with you and brings you fulfillment. Even if your work doesn’t receive a large audience, it doesn’t diminish its value. Sometimes, our writing serves as a form of self-expression, evolving into a means to connect with others. Can you share details about your ongoing writing projects? What themes or ideas are you currently exploring? I am currently working on my second book. I don’t want to give too much away, but it does focus on the theme of rebirth,