Paru Paru Y Colibri Poetry Workshop Reflections
Reflection on Writing
By Joemae Santos
(Paru paru y Colibri workshop participant)
Writing is a powerful tool which has remained in the arsenal of survival and preservation for many marginalized communities. As a queer Pinay, writing became the space where I could hold myself and everything that informed the person I am and continue to be. In the midst of the worst modern global pandemic where political repression continues to heighten globally, the need to ground myself in that space became necessary more than ever. The complex compounded crises impacting millions upon millions of people across the world make for the perfect conditions to spiral downward into an emotionally isolating place but so many have creatively utilized technology to still create moments of community.
South of Market Community Action Network (SOMCAN) did exactly that with their "Paru Paru y Colibri Poetry Workshop." Participants came from all walks of life varying from age, sexual orientation/identity, etc. This combination of individuals made for an enriching experience for participant and facilitator alike. Lourdes Figueroa, Poet and facilitator of this workshop, prepared a series of readings/writings used to break down poetry structure, format, and impact. By drawing on pieces by June Jordan, Audre Lorde and other acclaimed poets, Figueroa challenged the participants to pull out their own voices and capture the spirit of their own words. Through the active engagement of every individual, we were able to see into windows of people's history and culture. How powerful it was to bear witness to each participant fully wielding the strength of their breath through poetry.
This workshop reiterated for me why I write. It is my personal belief that poetry in itself is not inherently a form of activism but poetry does have the potential to be the vehicle which activism takes place. In my homeland, the Philippines, President Duterte has subjugated the Philippine people to violence and repression. His recent Anti Terror Law criminalizes political dissent and criticism where emblems, speeches, and writings can be categorized as terrorism under this law. Now more than ever, I have a duty to speak out and utilize my creativity to stand against this fascist regime as the movement for Philippine democracy expands!