Community Through Social Media
Youtube
Grand Showcase
Summer Poetry Pop Up Show
Bandcamp
Instagram Hashtags
#The49507Project
Beans, greens, potatoes, tomatoes, you name it! We want you to write it! Today's prompt is to write about your favorite food! If you have trouble finding inspiration, try writing as if you're talking to someone who has NEVER had, or heard of, the dish that you're writing about!
Tag our page and use our hashtags to get a shout out in our IG story! Let's #UniteThroughDiatribe and find a #CureThroughCommunity ♡
*Laughs in #CureThroughCommunity*
Helping The Diatribe #CureThroughCommunity is... Mariah, who you can find at @cartographiesofmariah!
We have #poets on poets on poets coming at you with our Mask-erade Reading April 23 at 7 p.m. (which, conveniently, is part of the event name. Psssst... you can invite your friends 👀). We'll see you there!
If you can't make the reading but want to support the work, find us at the link in our bio!
We also have some prizes for a lucky winner that you'll be entered in by donating or by participating in the daily writing prompts - swipe for today’s!
Over the next five days we’ll tell you all about the new sex education program: What? Why? Who? Why? & When? If you want to get involved now- link to donate in bio & our Venmo is @the-diatribe ❤️ Help us #CureThroughCommunity & #UniteThroughDiatribe ✨✨
KEEPING. STUDENTS. ENGAGED. It’s a different beast in every classroom. So how do we consistently keep young people interested? With dynamic teaching artists – people who live and breathe teaching through poetry - AND by making sure our #students see themselves within the scope of each lesson. You can help us continue teaching the next generation of change makers by donating at the link in our bio! #CureThroughCommunity
PC: @quinnkphoto
These 3 are the gracious hosts of West Michigan’s most super exclusive event happening on April 23rd!! (Swipe for the prompt of the day!) We got Poets on Poets on Poets (Ft. @natashatmiller ), hosted by @fableistruth @gleasonrising & the poet laureate of Grand Rapids: @kydsaidit and we couldn’t be more excited if we tried!! Since we pride ourselves on being majorly inclusive as an organization, you know we couldn’t stop at giving our valued guests the benefit of a private poetry performance- so we’re bringing it to you LIVE! From our Facebook page as well as @newhollandbrew on April 23rd you can catch the reading of a lifetime!! If you are bummed you aren’t invited to the exclusive event, why not cheer yourself up by entering to win some dope prizes??!! Tag us in a post of you reading a poem inspired by any of our prompts this month & you might just #stayhome with a W! Don’t feel like writing? Got weak wrists?? Tap the link in our bio to donate to our organization any day this month & you can still enter to win! #UniteThroughDiatribe to #CureThroughCommunity ✨
Happy World Health Day! Our organization has changed so much in the last year, and at the heart of every decision we’ve made was our commitment to the health and wellness of our community. We stopped teaching (70-80% of our bread&butter) in-person courses, and went into OT to create authentic content that addresses a major concern for all people, especially youth, in pandemic living: mental health. That content is STILL free & available to anyone, especially educators who are looking to uplift their students. Link in our bio to check it out! We’ve put gift cards in the hands of families who need it most. We’ve done so much work to unveil a major project coming up, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg for us. On this day, we celebrate the health of our community, and look to the future for brighter days to come! Swipe to see the prompt of the day & #UniteThroughDiatribe to #CureThroughCommunity ✨
We will be sharing quotes from our fave poets throughout the month! Keep your eyes peeled for poets you should check out! Swipe for the prompt of the day & #UniteThroughDiatribe to find a #CureThroughCommunity ✨
Over the next five days we’ll tell you all about the sex education program: What? Why? Who? Why? & When? If you want to get involved now- link to donate in bio & our Venmo is @the-diatribe ❤️ Help us #CureThroughCommunity & #UniteThroughDiatribe ✨✨
Happy birthday to the late & great Maya Angelou. This day marks a day of rest for our team as we celebrate a brilliant mind. Swipe to see the 5th prompt of #NationalPoetryMonth! Tag us in your stories & posts to enter to win dope prizes at the end of this month. Donate at least $30 all month long to enter without posting a poem! Let’s #CureThroughCommunity 🙏🏽✨#UniteThroughDiatribe
My next Human Highlight is his own brand ambassador. His name AB, or Adrian Butler is an entrepreneur, Dj, clothing designer, host extraordinaire, and Emcee, he’s also been named a GR Hunk! This guy is my friend, we’ve shared many stages, and also put on amazing events together. Meet abisadrianbutler the guy with the unforgettable laugh!
#blackisbeautifulbeer
#blackisbeautiful
#curethroughcommunity
#thediatribe
#thediatribegr
the_diatribe
newhollandbrew
weatheredsoulsbrewing
Help send Nigella to Spellman College! Link in bio✨ (Swipe to see the prompt of the day & the prizes involved in our challenge) At the heart of everything we do in this organization is our students! This dynamic youth reached out to ask if we could share her college fund, so OF COURSE, we are doing just that! A snippet from the GoFundMe page: “My goal is to earn my bachelor's degree and utilize it to acquire a career that involves helping people and changing the world in order for every minority to have better access to their rights. I never thought I would get accepted into a historically black college/university. So, my acceptance to Spelman came as a surprise. If I could actually attend, it would be better than a dream come true!” Help send this brilliant young black woman to college, y’all! Over the years we have worked with her, we have watched her grow into such a force to be reckoned with. We hope you’ll support her in anyway you can! Link to her fund in our bio. #UniteThroughDiatribe to #CureThroughCommunity 🙏🏽✨
We love working with the students at Godwin! This is a pic of a student in our Writing to Right Wrongs course, led by none other than our educational director @gleasonrising 😍😍 Swipe for the 3rd prompt of this month! If you’re not feeling so inspired to write today, but still want to support us during #NationalPoetryMonth use the link in our bio to donate to our organization! Be the #curethroughcommunity 🙌🏽
We hope you join us TOMORROW for The Diatribe Free Education Program event starting at 2pm!
For all of you that have been missing live events, our aim is that this will bring you some much needed light! The event will also be informative & inspiring, just like anything our fantastic team comes together to accomplish!
Tell ya friends, especially those in education, or those who might want to see INCREDIBLE local talent performing live! 🥰🤩
Link to event in bio- livestream starts at 2PM. Email us for more info!
#curethroughcommunity
The Mask-erade Reading is coming up! Have you RSVP'ed yet? If not, head on over to our Facebook page, click "Going," and invite your friends so you can talk about all the KICK BUTT #POETRY you heard after!
The reading features a few of #TheDiatribe's students, including Naiara here! Keep up with us on social media over the next few days to stay updated on the other performers and more #PoetryMonth prompts! Swipe for today’s!
#CureThroughCommunity
When I sat down to develop the lesson plan for the summer/after school program, it was essential for me to create opportunities for them to express aloud individually and collectively, with confidence. In last week’s session each student affirmed themselves with an “I AM” statement and contributed it to a collective affirmation poem.
The students are 🔥🔥🔥 and I’m literally overjoyed.
Posted withregram • the_diatribe Summer Programming with kydsaidit looks like: beginning the day with the class’ affirmations poem each students contributed to the first week.
Follow along and repeat each phrase with our students to get a piece of this affirmative love!!!! #curethroughcommunity
Thanks to our Writing to Right Wrongs partner, The Fair Housing Center of West Michigan, students are encouraged to enter a #PoetryCompetition at the end of the WTRW program! ⠀
Outside the presence of a global pandemic, winning poets would read their work at the Fair Housing Center's annual fundraiser and receive a stipend. This year, the readings won't be taking place, but two first-place winners will receive $200 and three runners-up will receive $50! ⠀
We're dedicated to teaching students that poetry is not only a tool for education and self-discovery, but is also an art form worth funding. Thank you to The Fair Housing Center of West Michigan for helping us #CureThroughCommunity and to everyone who donates to help us do this work!⠀
⠀
Image by @QuinnKPhoto
The Diatribe FREE Education Program - will be a secret show for those in the know!
Soak in some incredible Spoken Word, learn about how The Diatribe Inc is working to create FREE culturally/socially responsible content for Educators in times of distance learning, and ask questions you want answered by some of our cities most unique minds.
If you want to attend this virtual event, please email: info@TheDiatribe.org.
If you are an educator, parent, or clinician looking for this content, you can access it via the link in our bio.
Art by: @solasink_
Fueled by: @meijerstores , @heartofwestmichigan , @mihumanities , and @grcommfound
#curethroughcommunity
🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩When we tell y'all about what we've been up to on Dec 19th, REMEMBER: this is where the magic happens every week!
How it started-->how it's going in our office!! The day-to-day for us is lived to the fullest in this space. 🥰 We are so grateful to everyone who has made this little slice of creative heaven possible!
#curethroughcommunity
It's National Poetry Month!
#Repost the_diatribe
・・・
Happy birthday to the late & great Maya Angelou. This day marks a day of rest for our team as we celebrate a brilliant mind. Swipe to see the 5th prompt of #NationalPoetryMonth! Tag us in your stories & posts to enter to win dope prizes at the end of this month. Donate at least $30 all month long to enter without posting a poem! Let’s #CureThroughCommunity 🙏🏽✨#UniteThroughDiatribe
Happening NOW on YouTube. You need to tune into the_diatribe NOW!
#Repost the_diatribe (get_repost)
・・・
We hope you join us TOMORROW for The Diatribe Free Education Program event starting at 2pm!
For all of you that have been missing live events, our aim is that this will bring you some much needed light! The event will also be informative & inspiring, just like anything our fantastic team comes together to accomplish!
Tell ya friends, especially those in education, or those who might want to see INCREDIBLE local talent performing live! 🥰🤩
Link to event in bio- livestream starts at 2PM. Email us for more info!
#curethroughcommunity
TONIGHT!! 🎉🎉🎉 Event link & donate link in our bio.
We are having our annual April Fun'raiser this evening, where we'll have Poets, on Poets, on Poets & our feature is @natashatmiller ! While we have been posting about how excited we are for that event, we want to zoom our focus as to why: our STUDENTS! When we ask for donations, this is why. At the heart of everything we do is our youth- those who will go forward to change tomorrow. We are not just looking for more funding to help our organization grow, we are asking for more funding so we can increase our reach to those who might not even know they are poets yet. This Fun'raiser event happens every April so we can fund our Summer Programming & ensure our students are able to attend FOR FREE! Help us reach more extraordinary youth today- donate to our organization (link in bio) #unitethroughdiatribe to find a #CureThroughCommunity 🔥
Yay Nigella!!
#Repost the_diatribe
・・・
Help send Nigella to Spellman College! Link in bio✨ (Swipe to see the prompt of the day & the prizes involved in our challenge) At the heart of everything we do in this organization is our students! This dynamic youth reached out to ask if we could share her college fund, so OF COURSE, we are doing just that! A snippet from the GoFundMe page: “My goal is to earn my bachelor's degree and utilize it to acquire a career that involves helping people and changing the world in order for every minority to have better access to their rights. I never thought I would get accepted into a historically black college/university. So, my acceptance to Spelman came as a surprise. If I could actually attend, it would be better than a dream come true!” Help send this brilliant young black woman to college, y’all! Over the years we have worked with her, we have watched her grow into such a force to be reckoned with. We hope you’ll support her in anyway you can! Link to her fund in our bio. #UniteThroughDiatribe to #CureThroughCommunity 🙏🏽✨
Happy #EarthDay!
For today's prompt, we're getting to the heart of why Earth Day became a national holiday. The first official Earth Day was in 1970 when 20 million people across the nation-primarily from colleges & high schools, as well as frontline communities- were all peacefully demonstrating the need for environmental reformation. They gave a voice to the growing concern of the population surrounding the state of our planet. We want you to channel the power of that moment as we celebrate today, on the 50th anniversary. Write about your own experience with climate change. How has it shaped your life?
Let's #UniteThroughDiatribe and find a #CureThroughCommunity ♡
The Heart of West Michigan United Way @heartofwestmichigan gave us support, ensuring our diverse organization could survive, so of course we poured that support BACK into the talented and diverse creatives around us that help make our programing/organization what it is. Part of that includes getting our dynamic team headshots by local photographers! Check out our page for more of these shots as they're developed, and to get a little insight into the dynamic members of our team, as well as local talented photographers
💛🤩
Peep these 🔥🔥 headshots of our Executive Director, Marcel 'Fable' Price!
About the photographer of these delightful shots- pictured 3rd: Alfield Reeves ( @alfieldreevesphotography )is a self-taught published photographer residing in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He is originally from Monrovia, Liberia, West Africa. He picked up photography during his sophomore year at Western Michigan University. He specializes in editorial, wedding, event and portrait photography. He’s known for his fashion editorial and black & white work. His work is featured in online platforms and magazines like Vogue Italia, SaveArtSpace, Burlington, NowThis, Blavity, and CRWN Magazine.
#CureThroughCommunity
In an effort to combat the inequities around distance learning and ease the burden on our educators,our organization has released FREE downloadable content that can be used in person or during distance learning.
That content can be found using the link in our bio!
On December 19th from 2-3:30pm we will be facilitating a free learning session, poetry reading, and dialogue about "the state of the arts" where we talk about the Past, Present, and Future state of our organization.
If you would like to attend this free virtual event, please email Info@TheDiatribe.org for the link.
Please, spread the word!
This programing was made possible by: Heart of West Michigan United Way, Grand Rapids Community Foundation (Youth Action Committee), Meijer, and Michigan Humanities.
Art by: @solasink_ (<--MUST FOLLOW!)
#CureThroughCommunity
Answer these questions in the comments below: what kind of workshops would you want us to create? What are you looking to learn right now?
Our team of talented local artists are looking to curate workshops in the very near future! We are looking to our community to see what knowledge they'd like us to drop on them. As we have a plethora of life experiences, we have a lot to share, so please be candid with us ♡ .
Second slide is the prompt today for #NationalPoetryMonth. Let's get abstract!
.
Let's #UniteThroughDiatribe and find a #CureThroughCommunity ♡
These photos make all of our team's hearts burst! Both group shots represent 2 successful years of summer programming to West MI's next generation of creatives. In the short weeks we had with them- in 2018 and 2019- we saw our students sore to new heights, watched them grow out of their shells and into their power, and at the end, we got to sit back and watch them wow us with their growth. This year, we're making it even more accessible by going online! We will be meeting once a week for 9 weeks, via Zoom. If you, your students, your child, or your friends are interested in taking part in our FREE summer programming - please email Rachel@TheDiatribe.org to be added to the list. We are playing with the idea of allowing creatives of all ages in these workshops, so reach out if this sounds interesting to you!
We will be capping the workshops at 25 students and 5 adults in each workshop - so reach out ASAP!
If you'd like to know more about what our summer programming is like, check the link in our bio!
Let's #UniteThroughDiatribe and find a #CureThroughCommunity ♡
WOW WOW WOW
Look at what we created together.
This beautiful video, put together by @carbonstories showcases the work that has gone into developing, producing, and activating Year 1 of #The49507Project.
You'll meet humans who helped connect the project with the input of community members and helped canvas our neighborhood, the people that crafted murals, and hear from some of the business owners themselves.
@carnevale_co also speaks on how the placards created for each mural expand the project’s reach into education, allowing viewers to scan the placards’ QR codes to learn how the area has been redlined.
We would like to thank the Fair Housing Center of West Michigan for helping us begin those conversations with our Writing to Right Wrongs programming.
We couldn’t do this without you!
We also owe a thank you to our additional community partners, @grabblocal and @garfieldparkgr.
To @steelcase, The Frey Foundation, @grcommfound, The Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority, The Greater Grand Rapids 100 Women Who Care, and the Wege Foundation, thank you for supporting this project in year 1 and for helping us #CureThroughCommunity.
Make sure you visit the link to The 49507 Project in our Linktree for your guide to the murals!
For questions related to this project (programing, sponsorship, or collaborations) please reach out to info@TheDiatribe.org
You can also access the documentary via our Youtube channel, The Diatribe.
💥💥We've released new downloadable content that's completely FREE teachers to use in the classroom or in distance learning! 💥💥
Poetry Empowered: Mental Health and Wellness is a ten session course for middle schoolers that uses poetry videos, interactive student journals, and unique writing prompts to help young people share their experiences and tell their stories.
👀 Check the link in our bio!
#CureThroughCommunity
#CureThroughCommunity
Beans, greens, potatoes, tomatoes, you name it! We want you to write it! Today's prompt is to write about your favorite food! If you have trouble finding inspiration, try writing as if you're talking to someone who has NEVER had, or heard of, the dish that you're writing about!
Tag our page and use our hashtags to get a shout out in our IG story! Let's #UniteThroughDiatribe and find a #CureThroughCommunity ♡
*Laughs in #CureThroughCommunity*
Helping The Diatribe #CureThroughCommunity is... Mariah, who you can find at @cartographiesofmariah!
We have #poets on poets on poets coming at you with our Mask-erade Reading April 23 at 7 p.m. (which, conveniently, is part of the event name. Psssst... you can invite your friends 👀). We'll see you there!
If you can't make the reading but want to support the work, find us at the link in our bio!
We also have some prizes for a lucky winner that you'll be entered in by donating or by participating in the daily writing prompts - swipe for today’s!
Over the next five days we’ll tell you all about the new sex education program: What? Why? Who? Why? & When? If you want to get involved now- link to donate in bio & our Venmo is @the-diatribe ❤️ Help us #CureThroughCommunity & #UniteThroughDiatribe ✨✨
KEEPING. STUDENTS. ENGAGED. It’s a different beast in every classroom. So how do we consistently keep young people interested? With dynamic teaching artists – people who live and breathe teaching through poetry - AND by making sure our #students see themselves within the scope of each lesson. You can help us continue teaching the next generation of change makers by donating at the link in our bio! #CureThroughCommunity
PC: @quinnkphoto
These 3 are the gracious hosts of West Michigan’s most super exclusive event happening on April 23rd!! (Swipe for the prompt of the day!) We got Poets on Poets on Poets (Ft. @natashatmiller ), hosted by @fableistruth @gleasonrising & the poet laureate of Grand Rapids: @kydsaidit and we couldn’t be more excited if we tried!! Since we pride ourselves on being majorly inclusive as an organization, you know we couldn’t stop at giving our valued guests the benefit of a private poetry performance- so we’re bringing it to you LIVE! From our Facebook page as well as @newhollandbrew on April 23rd you can catch the reading of a lifetime!! If you are bummed you aren’t invited to the exclusive event, why not cheer yourself up by entering to win some dope prizes??!! Tag us in a post of you reading a poem inspired by any of our prompts this month & you might just #stayhome with a W! Don’t feel like writing? Got weak wrists?? Tap the link in our bio to donate to our organization any day this month & you can still enter to win! #UniteThroughDiatribe to #CureThroughCommunity ✨
Happy World Health Day! Our organization has changed so much in the last year, and at the heart of every decision we’ve made was our commitment to the health and wellness of our community. We stopped teaching (70-80% of our bread&butter) in-person courses, and went into OT to create authentic content that addresses a major concern for all people, especially youth, in pandemic living: mental health. That content is STILL free & available to anyone, especially educators who are looking to uplift their students. Link in our bio to check it out! We’ve put gift cards in the hands of families who need it most. We’ve done so much work to unveil a major project coming up, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg for us. On this day, we celebrate the health of our community, and look to the future for brighter days to come! Swipe to see the prompt of the day & #UniteThroughDiatribe to #CureThroughCommunity ✨
We will be sharing quotes from our fave poets throughout the month! Keep your eyes peeled for poets you should check out! Swipe for the prompt of the day & #UniteThroughDiatribe to find a #CureThroughCommunity ✨
Over the next five days we’ll tell you all about the sex education program: What? Why? Who? Why? & When? If you want to get involved now- link to donate in bio & our Venmo is @the-diatribe ❤️ Help us #CureThroughCommunity & #UniteThroughDiatribe ✨✨
Happy birthday to the late & great Maya Angelou. This day marks a day of rest for our team as we celebrate a brilliant mind. Swipe to see the 5th prompt of #NationalPoetryMonth! Tag us in your stories & posts to enter to win dope prizes at the end of this month. Donate at least $30 all month long to enter without posting a poem! Let’s #CureThroughCommunity 🙏🏽✨#UniteThroughDiatribe
My next Human Highlight is his own brand ambassador. His name AB, or Adrian Butler is an entrepreneur, Dj, clothing designer, host extraordinaire, and Emcee, he’s also been named a GR Hunk! This guy is my friend, we’ve shared many stages, and also put on amazing events together. Meet abisadrianbutler the guy with the unforgettable laugh!
#blackisbeautifulbeer
#blackisbeautiful
#curethroughcommunity
#thediatribe
#thediatribegr
the_diatribe
newhollandbrew
weatheredsoulsbrewing
Help send Nigella to Spellman College! Link in bio✨ (Swipe to see the prompt of the day & the prizes involved in our challenge) At the heart of everything we do in this organization is our students! This dynamic youth reached out to ask if we could share her college fund, so OF COURSE, we are doing just that! A snippet from the GoFundMe page: “My goal is to earn my bachelor's degree and utilize it to acquire a career that involves helping people and changing the world in order for every minority to have better access to their rights. I never thought I would get accepted into a historically black college/university. So, my acceptance to Spelman came as a surprise. If I could actually attend, it would be better than a dream come true!” Help send this brilliant young black woman to college, y’all! Over the years we have worked with her, we have watched her grow into such a force to be reckoned with. We hope you’ll support her in anyway you can! Link to her fund in our bio. #UniteThroughDiatribe to #CureThroughCommunity 🙏🏽✨
We love working with the students at Godwin! This is a pic of a student in our Writing to Right Wrongs course, led by none other than our educational director @gleasonrising 😍😍 Swipe for the 3rd prompt of this month! If you’re not feeling so inspired to write today, but still want to support us during #NationalPoetryMonth use the link in our bio to donate to our organization! Be the #curethroughcommunity 🙌🏽
We hope you join us TOMORROW for The Diatribe Free Education Program event starting at 2pm!
For all of you that have been missing live events, our aim is that this will bring you some much needed light! The event will also be informative & inspiring, just like anything our fantastic team comes together to accomplish!
Tell ya friends, especially those in education, or those who might want to see INCREDIBLE local talent performing live! 🥰🤩
Link to event in bio- livestream starts at 2PM. Email us for more info!
#curethroughcommunity
The Mask-erade Reading is coming up! Have you RSVP'ed yet? If not, head on over to our Facebook page, click "Going," and invite your friends so you can talk about all the KICK BUTT #POETRY you heard after!
The reading features a few of #TheDiatribe's students, including Naiara here! Keep up with us on social media over the next few days to stay updated on the other performers and more #PoetryMonth prompts! Swipe for today’s!
#CureThroughCommunity
When I sat down to develop the lesson plan for the summer/after school program, it was essential for me to create opportunities for them to express aloud individually and collectively, with confidence. In last week’s session each student affirmed themselves with an “I AM” statement and contributed it to a collective affirmation poem.
The students are 🔥🔥🔥 and I’m literally overjoyed.
Posted withregram • the_diatribe Summer Programming with kydsaidit looks like: beginning the day with the class’ affirmations poem each students contributed to the first week.
Follow along and repeat each phrase with our students to get a piece of this affirmative love!!!! #curethroughcommunity
Thanks to our Writing to Right Wrongs partner, The Fair Housing Center of West Michigan, students are encouraged to enter a #PoetryCompetition at the end of the WTRW program! ⠀
Outside the presence of a global pandemic, winning poets would read their work at the Fair Housing Center's annual fundraiser and receive a stipend. This year, the readings won't be taking place, but two first-place winners will receive $200 and three runners-up will receive $50! ⠀
We're dedicated to teaching students that poetry is not only a tool for education and self-discovery, but is also an art form worth funding. Thank you to The Fair Housing Center of West Michigan for helping us #CureThroughCommunity and to everyone who donates to help us do this work!⠀
⠀
Image by @QuinnKPhoto
The Diatribe FREE Education Program - will be a secret show for those in the know!
Soak in some incredible Spoken Word, learn about how The Diatribe Inc is working to create FREE culturally/socially responsible content for Educators in times of distance learning, and ask questions you want answered by some of our cities most unique minds.
If you want to attend this virtual event, please email: info@TheDiatribe.org.
If you are an educator, parent, or clinician looking for this content, you can access it via the link in our bio.
Art by: @solasink_
Fueled by: @meijerstores , @heartofwestmichigan , @mihumanities , and @grcommfound
#curethroughcommunity
🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩When we tell y'all about what we've been up to on Dec 19th, REMEMBER: this is where the magic happens every week!
How it started-->how it's going in our office!! The day-to-day for us is lived to the fullest in this space. 🥰 We are so grateful to everyone who has made this little slice of creative heaven possible!
#curethroughcommunity
It's National Poetry Month!
#Repost the_diatribe
・・・
Happy birthday to the late & great Maya Angelou. This day marks a day of rest for our team as we celebrate a brilliant mind. Swipe to see the 5th prompt of #NationalPoetryMonth! Tag us in your stories & posts to enter to win dope prizes at the end of this month. Donate at least $30 all month long to enter without posting a poem! Let’s #CureThroughCommunity 🙏🏽✨#UniteThroughDiatribe
Happening NOW on YouTube. You need to tune into the_diatribe NOW!
#Repost the_diatribe (get_repost)
・・・
We hope you join us TOMORROW for The Diatribe Free Education Program event starting at 2pm!
For all of you that have been missing live events, our aim is that this will bring you some much needed light! The event will also be informative & inspiring, just like anything our fantastic team comes together to accomplish!
Tell ya friends, especially those in education, or those who might want to see INCREDIBLE local talent performing live! 🥰🤩
Link to event in bio- livestream starts at 2PM. Email us for more info!
#curethroughcommunity
TONIGHT!! 🎉🎉🎉 Event link & donate link in our bio.
We are having our annual April Fun'raiser this evening, where we'll have Poets, on Poets, on Poets & our feature is @natashatmiller ! While we have been posting about how excited we are for that event, we want to zoom our focus as to why: our STUDENTS! When we ask for donations, this is why. At the heart of everything we do is our youth- those who will go forward to change tomorrow. We are not just looking for more funding to help our organization grow, we are asking for more funding so we can increase our reach to those who might not even know they are poets yet. This Fun'raiser event happens every April so we can fund our Summer Programming & ensure our students are able to attend FOR FREE! Help us reach more extraordinary youth today- donate to our organization (link in bio) #unitethroughdiatribe to find a #CureThroughCommunity 🔥
Yay Nigella!!
#Repost the_diatribe
・・・
Help send Nigella to Spellman College! Link in bio✨ (Swipe to see the prompt of the day & the prizes involved in our challenge) At the heart of everything we do in this organization is our students! This dynamic youth reached out to ask if we could share her college fund, so OF COURSE, we are doing just that! A snippet from the GoFundMe page: “My goal is to earn my bachelor's degree and utilize it to acquire a career that involves helping people and changing the world in order for every minority to have better access to their rights. I never thought I would get accepted into a historically black college/university. So, my acceptance to Spelman came as a surprise. If I could actually attend, it would be better than a dream come true!” Help send this brilliant young black woman to college, y’all! Over the years we have worked with her, we have watched her grow into such a force to be reckoned with. We hope you’ll support her in anyway you can! Link to her fund in our bio. #UniteThroughDiatribe to #CureThroughCommunity 🙏🏽✨
Happy #EarthDay!
For today's prompt, we're getting to the heart of why Earth Day became a national holiday. The first official Earth Day was in 1970 when 20 million people across the nation-primarily from colleges & high schools, as well as frontline communities- were all peacefully demonstrating the need for environmental reformation. They gave a voice to the growing concern of the population surrounding the state of our planet. We want you to channel the power of that moment as we celebrate today, on the 50th anniversary. Write about your own experience with climate change. How has it shaped your life?
Let's #UniteThroughDiatribe and find a #CureThroughCommunity ♡
The Heart of West Michigan United Way @heartofwestmichigan gave us support, ensuring our diverse organization could survive, so of course we poured that support BACK into the talented and diverse creatives around us that help make our programing/organization what it is. Part of that includes getting our dynamic team headshots by local photographers! Check out our page for more of these shots as they're developed, and to get a little insight into the dynamic members of our team, as well as local talented photographers
💛🤩
Peep these 🔥🔥 headshots of our Executive Director, Marcel 'Fable' Price!
About the photographer of these delightful shots- pictured 3rd: Alfield Reeves ( @alfieldreevesphotography )is a self-taught published photographer residing in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He is originally from Monrovia, Liberia, West Africa. He picked up photography during his sophomore year at Western Michigan University. He specializes in editorial, wedding, event and portrait photography. He’s known for his fashion editorial and black & white work. His work is featured in online platforms and magazines like Vogue Italia, SaveArtSpace, Burlington, NowThis, Blavity, and CRWN Magazine.
#CureThroughCommunity
In an effort to combat the inequities around distance learning and ease the burden on our educators,our organization has released FREE downloadable content that can be used in person or during distance learning.
That content can be found using the link in our bio!
On December 19th from 2-3:30pm we will be facilitating a free learning session, poetry reading, and dialogue about "the state of the arts" where we talk about the Past, Present, and Future state of our organization.
If you would like to attend this free virtual event, please email Info@TheDiatribe.org for the link.
Please, spread the word!
This programing was made possible by: Heart of West Michigan United Way, Grand Rapids Community Foundation (Youth Action Committee), Meijer, and Michigan Humanities.
Art by: @solasink_ (<--MUST FOLLOW!)
#CureThroughCommunity
Answer these questions in the comments below: what kind of workshops would you want us to create? What are you looking to learn right now?
Our team of talented local artists are looking to curate workshops in the very near future! We are looking to our community to see what knowledge they'd like us to drop on them. As we have a plethora of life experiences, we have a lot to share, so please be candid with us ♡ .
Second slide is the prompt today for #NationalPoetryMonth. Let's get abstract!
.
Let's #UniteThroughDiatribe and find a #CureThroughCommunity ♡
These photos make all of our team's hearts burst! Both group shots represent 2 successful years of summer programming to West MI's next generation of creatives. In the short weeks we had with them- in 2018 and 2019- we saw our students sore to new heights, watched them grow out of their shells and into their power, and at the end, we got to sit back and watch them wow us with their growth. This year, we're making it even more accessible by going online! We will be meeting once a week for 9 weeks, via Zoom. If you, your students, your child, or your friends are interested in taking part in our FREE summer programming - please email Rachel@TheDiatribe.org to be added to the list. We are playing with the idea of allowing creatives of all ages in these workshops, so reach out if this sounds interesting to you!
We will be capping the workshops at 25 students and 5 adults in each workshop - so reach out ASAP!
If you'd like to know more about what our summer programming is like, check the link in our bio!
Let's #UniteThroughDiatribe and find a #CureThroughCommunity ♡
WOW WOW WOW
Look at what we created together.
This beautiful video, put together by @carbonstories showcases the work that has gone into developing, producing, and activating Year 1 of #The49507Project.
You'll meet humans who helped connect the project with the input of community members and helped canvas our neighborhood, the people that crafted murals, and hear from some of the business owners themselves.
@carnevale_co also speaks on how the placards created for each mural expand the project’s reach into education, allowing viewers to scan the placards’ QR codes to learn how the area has been redlined.
We would like to thank the Fair Housing Center of West Michigan for helping us begin those conversations with our Writing to Right Wrongs programming.
We couldn’t do this without you!
We also owe a thank you to our additional community partners, @grabblocal and @garfieldparkgr.
To @steelcase, The Frey Foundation, @grcommfound, The Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority, The Greater Grand Rapids 100 Women Who Care, and the Wege Foundation, thank you for supporting this project in year 1 and for helping us #CureThroughCommunity.
Make sure you visit the link to The 49507 Project in our Linktree for your guide to the murals!
For questions related to this project (programing, sponsorship, or collaborations) please reach out to info@TheDiatribe.org
You can also access the documentary via our Youtube channel, The Diatribe.
💥💥We've released new downloadable content that's completely FREE teachers to use in the classroom or in distance learning! 💥💥
Poetry Empowered: Mental Health and Wellness is a ten session course for middle schoolers that uses poetry videos, interactive student journals, and unique writing prompts to help young people share their experiences and tell their stories.
👀 Check the link in our bio!
#CureThroughCommunity
#49507Project
Artist: tonywhlgn
Location: oldgoatgr
2434 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
Detroit artist Tony WHLGN crafted this incredible mural as part of the_diatribe’s 49507 Project.
The 49507 Project is a POC-LGBTQ and youth-led project, rooted in collaboration, that teaches art and event organizing, and commissions community art for and by people of color in the 49507 neighborhood.
About the Diatribe:
The Diatribe uses performing arts to empower young people to share their stories, raise awareness of social issues, and create change within their communities.
[Click the link in our bio to learn more about the Diatribe and the 49507 Project.]
Nov. 23rd at the Grand Showcase. Photo by Zmbiephrsh #UniteThroughDiatribe
TONIGHT!! 🎉🎉🎉 Event link & donate link in our bio.
We are having our annual April Fun'raiser this evening, where we'll have Poets, on Poets, on Poets & our feature is @natashatmiller ! While we have been posting about how excited we are for that event, we want to zoom our focus as to why: our STUDENTS! When we ask for donations, this is why. At the heart of everything we do is our youth- those who will go forward to change tomorrow. We are not just looking for more funding to help our organization grow, we are asking for more funding so we can increase our reach to those who might not even know they are poets yet. This Fun'raiser event happens every April so we can fund our Summer Programming & ensure our students are able to attend FOR FREE! Help us reach more extraordinary youth today- donate to our organization (link in bio) #unitethroughdiatribe to find a #CureThroughCommunity 🔥
It's National Poetry Month!
#Repost the_diatribe
・・・
Happy birthday to the late & great Maya Angelou. This day marks a day of rest for our team as we celebrate a brilliant mind. Swipe to see the 5th prompt of #NationalPoetryMonth! Tag us in your stories & posts to enter to win dope prizes at the end of this month. Donate at least $30 all month long to enter without posting a poem! Let’s #CureThroughCommunity 🙏🏽✨#UniteThroughDiatribe
#KydSaidIt: “I enjoy engaging with the students and watching them open up with each session that passes.” ⠀
Not only is one of our teaching artists, Kyd Kane, the current Poet Laureate of #GrandRapids, she is the second consecutive #PoetLaureate of the city to work with The Diatribe. This team is a poetry #POWERHOUSE. #UniteThroughDiatribe⠀
You can find more Kyd @KydSaidIt!
PC: @quinnkphoto
Our students are at the heart of our work. Regina (@reginaaaaaa.16 ) has been a part of our programming for the past few years, and we've watched her grow before our eyes into a fierce young poet. We want to shower her with love because we recently got the news she's been accepted into a prestigious program at @interlochenarts academy!!! Congratulations Regina! You are deserving of every blessing in your life. Watch out for the next generation of creatives, y'all, I promise you'll be hearing about her in the future!
Happy #EarthDay!
For today's prompt, we're getting to the heart of why Earth Day became a national holiday. The first official Earth Day was in 1970 when 20 million people across the nation-primarily from colleges & high schools, as well as frontline communities- were all peacefully demonstrating the need for environmental reformation. They gave a voice to the growing concern of the population surrounding the state of our planet. We want you to channel the power of that moment as we celebrate today, on the 50th anniversary. Write about your own experience with climate change. How has it shaped your life?
Let's #UniteThroughDiatribe and find a #CureThroughCommunity ♡
For those who have been following us all 2021, you've gotten a glimpse at what we've accomplished with your support. Now, you have the opportunity to hear detailed accounts of how we got here and hear what we have in store for 2022! Join us and our Executive Director, Marcel "Fable" Price (@fablethepoet) for an hour-long Livestream Q&A where we discuss everything from the Poetry Empowered downloadable curriculum to The 49507 Project '22. Get your burning questions answered and #UniteThroughDiatribe!
RSVP through the link in our bio, and we'll see you on Jan. 18 at 6 p.m.!
Image by Aki Bang
Do you have a, "Here's how I have a good week," routine? Share your techniques in the comments section and #UniteThroughDiatribe!
Take the #The49507Project mural tour & experience stories from the voices and lives of those residents. Each work of art is a partnership of local area businesses, the artists and the_diatribe. 🔗 in bio for the why and how.
🎨 in 📸s: E'lla Webber, Kristin Zuller, Esan Sommersell, Octavia Thorns & more artists.
📸 Photographers: Leda Theres, Alee'a Cherry, Rich P Photography & Isabel Lopez.
✏️: Shayna Haynes Heard of youreachin
These photos make all of our team's hearts burst! Both group shots represent 2 successful years of summer programming to West MI's next generation of creatives. In the short weeks we had with them- in 2018 and 2019- we saw our students sore to new heights, watched them grow out of their shells and into their power, and at the end, we got to sit back and watch them wow us with their growth. This year, we're making it even more accessible by going online! We will be meeting once a week for 9 weeks, via Zoom. If you, your students, your child, or your friends are interested in taking part in our FREE summer programming - please email Rachel@TheDiatribe.org to be added to the list. We are playing with the idea of allowing creatives of all ages in these workshops, so reach out if this sounds interesting to you!
We will be capping the workshops at 25 students and 5 adults in each workshop - so reach out ASAP!
If you'd like to know more about what our summer programming is like, check the link in our bio!
Let's #UniteThroughDiatribe and find a #CureThroughCommunity ♡
Answer these questions in the comments below: what kind of workshops would you want us to create? What are you looking to learn right now?
Our team of talented local artists are looking to curate workshops in the very near future! We are looking to our community to see what knowledge they'd like us to drop on them. As we have a plethora of life experiences, we have a lot to share, so please be candid with us ♡ .
Second slide is the prompt today for #NationalPoetryMonth. Let's get abstract!
.
Let's #UniteThroughDiatribe and find a #CureThroughCommunity ♡
We are looking for volunteers to join our teaching artist team! If you or someone you know is one of the most talented poets/writers in West MI- please send a headshot, bio, & a sample of your work to info@thediatribe.org ✨ We will be searching for 20 creative volunteers to go through a rigorous training process! We are expanding to provide adult programming on the horizon, and we have more youth programs than we have capacity for! Please help us spread the word, tag someone who you know should apply in the comments! 💕💕#jointhesquad #UniteThroughDiatribe
I wanted to highlight a couple books I read earlier this year that I’ve learned a lot from. They’re all Grand Rapids focused and – in different ways – inspire ideas on how we can imagine, build, and activate a more just and equitable community.
[𝟭] 𝗔 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗪𝗶𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻 𝗔 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 – 𝗧𝗼𝗱𝗱 𝗘. 𝗥𝗼𝗯𝗶𝗻𝘀𝗼𝗻
📚 Find it at wearelitgr
Dr. Robinson’s work examines managerial racism and the struggle for civil rights and racial justice in GR from around the 1900s to early 1970s. His work illuminates the intersections between fair housing, education, and more – it’s extremely important history that I need to take more time to learn. It’s how we move forward.
Related to this, check out:
🔹 grandstandpictures – Grand Stand Pictures is producing a documentary based on ACWAC! Follow them and consider supporting their Indiegogo campaign (only 3 days left!)
🔸 Fair Housing Center of West Michigan – After reading, I started learning more about the FHCWM and the crucial work they do in our community. I’m looking forward to learning more from their excellent programming and resources.
🔹 iwantjustice4all – Check out their Redline t-shirt collection which raises awareness and supports the FHCWM.
[𝟮] 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝗮𝗽𝗶𝗱𝘀 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗿𝗼𝗼𝘁𝘀 – 𝗔𝘀𝗵𝗹𝗲𝘆 𝗘. 𝗡𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝗹𝘀 & 𝗗𝗮𝗻𝗶 𝗩𝗶𝗹𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗮
📚 Find it at booksandmortar
I enjoyed reading this book after ACWAC because it highlights activists and organizations that are effecting change and taking action to create a stronger community that works for everyone. It was published in 2017, and since then I feel that there are many other local leaders and initiatives that should be highlighted… I think it’s time for Volume 2!
There’s a lot I want to shout out here, but for now I’ll mention that the anthology includes a powerful poem from fablethepoet. And everyone should be following and supporting the_diatribe!
[𝟯] 𝗔𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗻𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 – 𝗥𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗮𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗝𝗲𝗹𝗸𝘀
I haven’t actually read this one yet, but it’s next on my list. Just wanted to mention it because I’m excited to dive in!
Standing in front of nearly 1,000 students reminiscing about the first time I took the stage.
I was in high school, I was terrified, but I never would have guessed that I would be working with students one day preparing them to read for their entire school.
This year I met so many young people that can and will change the world, they will go so much farther than me, and I’m SO excited to watch them continue to soar. 📷 zmbiephrsh
#MyDiatribe #UniteThroughDiatribe #listenlearngrowtogether
With all of the negativity dominating the world these days, it can be difficult to spot signs of progress. What makes you optimistic about the future?
Even here, even now - you are growing.
Progress needs to be less about how perfectly we paint the outward picture of what we think we’re supposed to be. Lately, I have been starting to care more about how I feel opposed to what other people think. I believe it is a sign of growth that you’re able to stop living by an invisible set of rules set forth by people who do not have to walk in your shoes.
What would it take for you to truly feel alive each day?
#the49507project #49507project #thediatribe #mydiatribe #unitethroughdiatribe #muralsofinstagram #muralsofgr #grandrapidsmurals #michiganmurals #algerheights #segrandrapids #grandrapidsmi #grmi #grandrapidsblogger #grandrapidsart #michiganbloggers #whlgn #toneytonytone #theoldgoat #grandrapidsartist #muralsofgrandrapids #welovestreetart #michiganmurals #grusa #iheartgr #growthstrategy #signsofthetimes #progressoverperfection #ohheymamas #connectingcreativecuties #contentcreatorlife
We can't wait to share how you all helped us #UniteThroughDiatribe in 2021! Join us today at 6 p.m. on Facebook for a Livestream Q&A with our Executive Director, Marcel "Fable" Price (@fablethepoet), and you'll hear stories of what we accomplished and what we plan to achieve in 2022!
Access the event by following the link in our bio!
Image by @quinnkphoto
Yay Nigella!!
#Repost the_diatribe
・・・
Help send Nigella to Spellman College! Link in bio✨ (Swipe to see the prompt of the day & the prizes involved in our challenge) At the heart of everything we do in this organization is our students! This dynamic youth reached out to ask if we could share her college fund, so OF COURSE, we are doing just that! A snippet from the GoFundMe page: “My goal is to earn my bachelor's degree and utilize it to acquire a career that involves helping people and changing the world in order for every minority to have better access to their rights. I never thought I would get accepted into a historically black college/university. So, my acceptance to Spelman came as a surprise. If I could actually attend, it would be better than a dream come true!” Help send this brilliant young black woman to college, y’all! Over the years we have worked with her, we have watched her grow into such a force to be reckoned with. We hope you’ll support her in anyway you can! Link to her fund in our bio. #UniteThroughDiatribe to #CureThroughCommunity 🙏🏽✨
Artist: picardocolours
Location: La Casa De La Cobija
2355 Division Ave S, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
Artist Erick Picardo created this beautiful mural – “Con la Frente en Alto” – as part of the_diatribe’s 49507 Project.
About The 49507 Project:
Launched by the Diatribe, the 49507 Project is a POC-LGBTQ and youth-led project, rooted in collaboration, that teaches art and event organizing, and commissions community art for and by people of color in the 49507 neighborhood.
Artist: iamellawebber, ellasartgalleryllc
Location: fortyacresgr
703 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Artist E'lla Webber created this expressive and powerful mural – “Rooted” – as part of the_diatribe’s 49507 Project.
About The 49507 Project:
Launched by the Diatribe, the 49507 Project is a POC-LGBTQ and youth-led project, rooted in collaboration, that teaches art and event organizing, and commissions community art for and by people of color in the 49507 neighborhood.
Society programs people into believing that it is normal to dislike what they do, that work isn’t enjoyable, and that successful dreamers are one in a million.
We live to shatter that false narrative, and manifest thoughts into becoming things.
News link in bio!
The Grand Showcase is Nov 23. Come dream with us!
#MyDiatribe #GrandRapids #UniteThroughDiatribe #SpokenWord #poetry
Today wrapped up our #WritingToRightWrongs programming at Godwin Heights High School!
During the final session of each program, students are encouraged to share their poetry. It always blows us away how talented these young people are.
Some are shy, some have to work through their preconceived notions of what #poetry is and isn't, some are hesitant to share what they've written... but they push through.
We're so grateful for our teaching artists for the work they put in, the students for following along, their parents and educators for supporting their work, and our #donors for making all of this possible.
We continue to #UniteThroughDiatribe in schools, virtually AND in person, thanks to you.
Images by @quinnkphoto
Artist: plutomonday
Location: grabblocal
Grand Rapids Area Black Businesses
2012 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
Artist Esan Sommersell created this powerful mural – titled “Generational W(H)ealth” – as part of the_diatribe’s 49507 Project.
Artist Statement:
“Your health is wealth. ‘Generational W(H)ealth’ highlights not only the desire in the Black community to build Wealth to pass on to the next generation but the Health disparities that exist within the Black community. Social determinants of Health and the lack of access to quality and affordable healthcare – including mental health – creates additional barriers to attaining generational wealth and good overall health.
In this piece you see generations of Black people joyous. They are amongst a stream of wealth and the finest treasures as their smiles rest on top.
Similar to a job posting flyer with tabs of contact information we often see on light posts with a call to action to ‘please take with you,’ my hope is that the people of 49507 gaze at this piece and leave with a smile.”
About The 49507 Project:
The 49507 Project is a Black, Brown, Queer, and youth-led project rooted in collaboration to help make truly public art steered by the community where these pieces will live. This community art will utilize artists that are a reflection of those who have been underserved in the 49507 neighborhood.
About The Diatribe:
The Diatribe uses performing arts to empower young people to share their stories, raise awareness of social issues, and create change within their communities.
[Click the link in our bio to learn more about the Diatribe and the 49507 Project.]
Artist: solasink
Location: 1221 Madison Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
Artist Joshua Solas created this brilliant mural – “Everybody Eats” – as part of the_diatribe’s 49507 Project.
Artist Statement from IG:
“The mural is an attempt to encapsulate themes of love, aspiration, and community.
Reading from right to left, the story begins with one person running with their wealth. We then realize that he is not alone as others are running with theirs. We finally see that they are running to their family to share the wealth. I think this is important in any community of people. We must have the will to share our wealth with each other – whether it’s knowledge, opportunity, funds, or food. For a healthy community to exist, it’s important to help each other, fill each other’s gaps, so we can become a more well-rounded community.
‘Running’ in my work has a few interpretations. When I depict someone running it is often unclear if they are running from something or towards something. In life I feel we often have to run or feel like we have to run. It’s worth it when we run for the right reasons.
The Afros loosely resemble halos to represent higher consciousness and a sense of higher purpose. The Broken Arrow in the first part of the mural (right side) represents the obstacles people face when running through life. It being broken is a testament to one’s strength if they face life head-on.”
About The 49507 Project:
The 49507 Project is a POC-LGBTQ and youth-led project, rooted in collaboration, that teaches art and event organizing, and commissions community art for and by people of color in the 49507 neighborhood.
About The Diatribe:
The Diatribe uses performing arts to empower young people to share their stories, raise awareness of social issues, and create change within their communities.
[Click the link in our bio to learn more about the Diatribe and the 49507 Project.]
The Diatribe and The 49507 Project are supported by spectrumhealth, grcommfound, steelcase, neaarts, The Wege Foundation, The Frey Foundation, poetryfoundation, Southtown CID, carnevale_co, uicagr, garfieldparkgr, and citygrandrapids.
Artist: weweresix
Location: publicthread
1405 Buchanan Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
Multidisciplinary artist Kristin Zuller created this bright, bold, and brilliant mural – “The Divine Feminine” – as part of the_diatribe’s 49507 Project.
About The 49507 Project:
The 49507 Project is a POC-LGBTQ and youth-led project, rooted in collaboration, that teaches art and event organizing, and commissions community art for and by people of color in the 49507 neighborhood.
About The Diatribe:
The Diatribe uses performing arts to empower young people to share their stories, raise awareness of social issues, and create change within their communities.
[Click the link in our bio to learn more about the Diatribe and the 49507 Project.]
Beans, greens, potatoes, tomatoes, you name it! We want you to write it! Today's prompt is to write about your favorite food! If you have trouble finding inspiration, try writing as if you're talking to someone who has NEVER had, or heard of, the dish that you're writing about!
Tag our page and use our hashtags to get a shout out in our IG story! Let's #UniteThroughDiatribe and find a #CureThroughCommunity ♡
Artist: prettyininkpress
Location: southeastmarketgr
1220 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
Artist Octavia Thorns created this incredible mural – “Change Makers” – as part of the_diatribe’s 49507 Project.
In a statement shared on her Instagram, prettyininkpress shares:
“Art educates. Art strengthens. Art provides.
So, for this mural I wanted to do exactly that; educate, strengthen and provide.
Educating our youth and our people with images of strong, historical figures helps to strengthen their confidence in themselves and in their people. It’s important to show these figures as history often tries so hard to erase them.
This mural also provides positive affirmations to encourage those viewing it to thrive and continue chasing their dreams and venturing on their individual journey.
This mural will remind people that they are worthy despite the oppression placed upon them.
I want this mural to inspire thoughts so bright that they outshine the vibrant hues painted on these walls.
Fannie Lou Hamer’s words are a reminder that “We aren’t free until everyone is free”.
It is about showing up for your people, your friends and those whose struggles don’t intersect with yours but still matter.
No one should have to struggle and fight for freedom.
Freedom is owed to us. Freedom is owed to everyone.
To “bring power to the people,” in the words of Fred Hampton, would bring freedom to all.”
About The 49507 Project:
Launched by the Diatribe, the 49507 Project is a POC-LGBTQ and youth-led project, rooted in collaboration, that teaches art and event organizing, and commissions community art for and by people of color in the 49507 neighborhood.
THE WE ARE WATER WORKSHOP WAS A SUCCESS!!!!
This workshop taught students all about how to use poetry to deepen their understanding and connection with their local waterways and nature as a whole.
Of course, many thank-you's are due.
Thank you to everyone who came out to support the students; providing rides and being present means so much.
Thank you to Blandford Nature Center for working with us and for allowing us to use your beautiful spaces.
Thank you to the Lower Grand River Organization of Watersheds - LGROW for partnering with us for this workshop.
Thank you to the donors for providing the funds to make this possible.
And thank you to the students for being such a passionate, dedicated bunch. We look forward to seeing you again!
#WeAreWater #UniteThroughDiatribe
Images by @quinnkphoto
Link in our bio to support the Lyoya family, to plug into local activists on the frontlines, and to support our organization. #JusticeForPatrickLyoya #BlackLivesMatter #UniteThroughDiatribe
[ I just realized yesterday that I haven’t talked about my involvement with the_diatribe this year! Time for that to change 😤
I’ve been working as a communications assistant and contracted photographer with this wonderful org since February. Seeing the work these folks do both bolster kids to be authentically, powerfully themselves while fulfilling the teaching artists and everyone involved? It’s magical - especially since I used to be one of those kids.
There are layers here to experience, and I truly think this organization has become a powerhouse of its own design. Thank you to the people who #UniteThroughDiatribe with me and I’m excited to continue this work with all of you! ]
SOTD: Universe // teebs ft. DayDream Masi
#Project49507
Artist: tonywhlgn
Location: oldgoatgr
2434 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
Detroit artist Tony WHLGN crafted this incredible mural as part of the_diatribe’s 49507 Project.
The 49507 Project is a POC-LGBTQ and youth-led project, rooted in collaboration, that teaches art and event organizing, and commissions community art for and by people of color in the 49507 neighborhood.
About the Diatribe:
The Diatribe uses performing arts to empower young people to share their stories, raise awareness of social issues, and create change within their communities.
[Click the link in our bio to learn more about the Diatribe and the 49507 Project.]
Nov. 23rd at the Grand Showcase. Photo by Zmbiephrsh #UniteThroughDiatribe
TONIGHT!! 🎉🎉🎉 Event link & donate link in our bio.
We are having our annual April Fun'raiser this evening, where we'll have Poets, on Poets, on Poets & our feature is @natashatmiller ! While we have been posting about how excited we are for that event, we want to zoom our focus as to why: our STUDENTS! When we ask for donations, this is why. At the heart of everything we do is our youth- those who will go forward to change tomorrow. We are not just looking for more funding to help our organization grow, we are asking for more funding so we can increase our reach to those who might not even know they are poets yet. This Fun'raiser event happens every April so we can fund our Summer Programming & ensure our students are able to attend FOR FREE! Help us reach more extraordinary youth today- donate to our organization (link in bio) #unitethroughdiatribe to find a #CureThroughCommunity 🔥
It's National Poetry Month!
#Repost the_diatribe
・・・
Happy birthday to the late & great Maya Angelou. This day marks a day of rest for our team as we celebrate a brilliant mind. Swipe to see the 5th prompt of #NationalPoetryMonth! Tag us in your stories & posts to enter to win dope prizes at the end of this month. Donate at least $30 all month long to enter without posting a poem! Let’s #CureThroughCommunity 🙏🏽✨#UniteThroughDiatribe
#KydSaidIt: “I enjoy engaging with the students and watching them open up with each session that passes.” ⠀
Not only is one of our teaching artists, Kyd Kane, the current Poet Laureate of #GrandRapids, she is the second consecutive #PoetLaureate of the city to work with The Diatribe. This team is a poetry #POWERHOUSE. #UniteThroughDiatribe⠀
You can find more Kyd @KydSaidIt!
PC: @quinnkphoto
Our students are at the heart of our work. Regina (@reginaaaaaa.16 ) has been a part of our programming for the past few years, and we've watched her grow before our eyes into a fierce young poet. We want to shower her with love because we recently got the news she's been accepted into a prestigious program at @interlochenarts academy!!! Congratulations Regina! You are deserving of every blessing in your life. Watch out for the next generation of creatives, y'all, I promise you'll be hearing about her in the future!
Happy #EarthDay!
For today's prompt, we're getting to the heart of why Earth Day became a national holiday. The first official Earth Day was in 1970 when 20 million people across the nation-primarily from colleges & high schools, as well as frontline communities- were all peacefully demonstrating the need for environmental reformation. They gave a voice to the growing concern of the population surrounding the state of our planet. We want you to channel the power of that moment as we celebrate today, on the 50th anniversary. Write about your own experience with climate change. How has it shaped your life?
Let's #UniteThroughDiatribe and find a #CureThroughCommunity ♡
For those who have been following us all 2021, you've gotten a glimpse at what we've accomplished with your support. Now, you have the opportunity to hear detailed accounts of how we got here and hear what we have in store for 2022! Join us and our Executive Director, Marcel "Fable" Price (@fablethepoet) for an hour-long Livestream Q&A where we discuss everything from the Poetry Empowered downloadable curriculum to The 49507 Project '22. Get your burning questions answered and #UniteThroughDiatribe!
RSVP through the link in our bio, and we'll see you on Jan. 18 at 6 p.m.!
Image by Aki Bang
Do you have a, "Here's how I have a good week," routine? Share your techniques in the comments section and #UniteThroughDiatribe!
Take the #The49507Project mural tour & experience stories from the voices and lives of those residents. Each work of art is a partnership of local area businesses, the artists and the_diatribe. 🔗 in bio for the why and how.
🎨 in 📸s: E'lla Webber, Kristin Zuller, Esan Sommersell, Octavia Thorns & more artists.
📸 Photographers: Leda Theres, Alee'a Cherry, Rich P Photography & Isabel Lopez.
✏️: Shayna Haynes Heard of youreachin
These photos make all of our team's hearts burst! Both group shots represent 2 successful years of summer programming to West MI's next generation of creatives. In the short weeks we had with them- in 2018 and 2019- we saw our students sore to new heights, watched them grow out of their shells and into their power, and at the end, we got to sit back and watch them wow us with their growth. This year, we're making it even more accessible by going online! We will be meeting once a week for 9 weeks, via Zoom. If you, your students, your child, or your friends are interested in taking part in our FREE summer programming - please email Rachel@TheDiatribe.org to be added to the list. We are playing with the idea of allowing creatives of all ages in these workshops, so reach out if this sounds interesting to you!
We will be capping the workshops at 25 students and 5 adults in each workshop - so reach out ASAP!
If you'd like to know more about what our summer programming is like, check the link in our bio!
Let's #UniteThroughDiatribe and find a #CureThroughCommunity ♡
Answer these questions in the comments below: what kind of workshops would you want us to create? What are you looking to learn right now?
Our team of talented local artists are looking to curate workshops in the very near future! We are looking to our community to see what knowledge they'd like us to drop on them. As we have a plethora of life experiences, we have a lot to share, so please be candid with us ♡ .
Second slide is the prompt today for #NationalPoetryMonth. Let's get abstract!
.
Let's #UniteThroughDiatribe and find a #CureThroughCommunity ♡
We are looking for volunteers to join our teaching artist team! If you or someone you know is one of the most talented poets/writers in West MI- please send a headshot, bio, & a sample of your work to info@thediatribe.org ✨ We will be searching for 20 creative volunteers to go through a rigorous training process! We are expanding to provide adult programming on the horizon, and we have more youth programs than we have capacity for! Please help us spread the word, tag someone who you know should apply in the comments! 💕💕#jointhesquad #UniteThroughDiatribe
I wanted to highlight a couple books I read earlier this year that I’ve learned a lot from. They’re all Grand Rapids focused and – in different ways – inspire ideas on how we can imagine, build, and activate a more just and equitable community.
[𝟭] 𝗔 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗪𝗶𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻 𝗔 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 – 𝗧𝗼𝗱𝗱 𝗘. 𝗥𝗼𝗯𝗶𝗻𝘀𝗼𝗻
📚 Find it at wearelitgr
Dr. Robinson’s work examines managerial racism and the struggle for civil rights and racial justice in GR from around the 1900s to early 1970s. His work illuminates the intersections between fair housing, education, and more – it’s extremely important history that I need to take more time to learn. It’s how we move forward.
Related to this, check out:
🔹 grandstandpictures – Grand Stand Pictures is producing a documentary based on ACWAC! Follow them and consider supporting their Indiegogo campaign (only 3 days left!)
🔸 Fair Housing Center of West Michigan – After reading, I started learning more about the FHCWM and the crucial work they do in our community. I’m looking forward to learning more from their excellent programming and resources.
🔹 iwantjustice4all – Check out their Redline t-shirt collection which raises awareness and supports the FHCWM.
[𝟮] 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝗮𝗽𝗶𝗱𝘀 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗿𝗼𝗼𝘁𝘀 – 𝗔𝘀𝗵𝗹𝗲𝘆 𝗘. 𝗡𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝗹𝘀 & 𝗗𝗮𝗻𝗶 𝗩𝗶𝗹𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗮
📚 Find it at booksandmortar
I enjoyed reading this book after ACWAC because it highlights activists and organizations that are effecting change and taking action to create a stronger community that works for everyone. It was published in 2017, and since then I feel that there are many other local leaders and initiatives that should be highlighted… I think it’s time for Volume 2!
There’s a lot I want to shout out here, but for now I’ll mention that the anthology includes a powerful poem from fablethepoet. And everyone should be following and supporting the_diatribe!
[𝟯] 𝗔𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗻𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 – 𝗥𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗮𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗝𝗲𝗹𝗸𝘀
I haven’t actually read this one yet, but it’s next on my list. Just wanted to mention it because I’m excited to dive in!
Standing in front of nearly 1,000 students reminiscing about the first time I took the stage.
I was in high school, I was terrified, but I never would have guessed that I would be working with students one day preparing them to read for their entire school.
This year I met so many young people that can and will change the world, they will go so much farther than me, and I’m SO excited to watch them continue to soar. 📷 zmbiephrsh
#MyDiatribe #UniteThroughDiatribe #listenlearngrowtogether
With all of the negativity dominating the world these days, it can be difficult to spot signs of progress. What makes you optimistic about the future?
Even here, even now - you are growing.
Progress needs to be less about how perfectly we paint the outward picture of what we think we’re supposed to be. Lately, I have been starting to care more about how I feel opposed to what other people think. I believe it is a sign of growth that you’re able to stop living by an invisible set of rules set forth by people who do not have to walk in your shoes.
What would it take for you to truly feel alive each day?
#the49507project #49507project #thediatribe #mydiatribe #unitethroughdiatribe #muralsofinstagram #muralsofgr #grandrapidsmurals #michiganmurals #algerheights #segrandrapids #grandrapidsmi #grmi #grandrapidsblogger #grandrapidsart #michiganbloggers #whlgn #toneytonytone #theoldgoat #grandrapidsartist #muralsofgrandrapids #welovestreetart #michiganmurals #grusa #iheartgr #growthstrategy #signsofthetimes #progressoverperfection #ohheymamas #connectingcreativecuties #contentcreatorlife
We can't wait to share how you all helped us #UniteThroughDiatribe in 2021! Join us today at 6 p.m. on Facebook for a Livestream Q&A with our Executive Director, Marcel "Fable" Price (@fablethepoet), and you'll hear stories of what we accomplished and what we plan to achieve in 2022!
Access the event by following the link in our bio!
Image by @quinnkphoto
Yay Nigella!!
#Repost the_diatribe
・・・
Help send Nigella to Spellman College! Link in bio✨ (Swipe to see the prompt of the day & the prizes involved in our challenge) At the heart of everything we do in this organization is our students! This dynamic youth reached out to ask if we could share her college fund, so OF COURSE, we are doing just that! A snippet from the GoFundMe page: “My goal is to earn my bachelor's degree and utilize it to acquire a career that involves helping people and changing the world in order for every minority to have better access to their rights. I never thought I would get accepted into a historically black college/university. So, my acceptance to Spelman came as a surprise. If I could actually attend, it would be better than a dream come true!” Help send this brilliant young black woman to college, y’all! Over the years we have worked with her, we have watched her grow into such a force to be reckoned with. We hope you’ll support her in anyway you can! Link to her fund in our bio. #UniteThroughDiatribe to #CureThroughCommunity 🙏🏽✨
Artist: picardocolours
Location: La Casa De La Cobija
2355 Division Ave S, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
Artist Erick Picardo created this beautiful mural – “Con la Frente en Alto” – as part of the_diatribe’s 49507 Project.
About The 49507 Project:
Launched by the Diatribe, the 49507 Project is a POC-LGBTQ and youth-led project, rooted in collaboration, that teaches art and event organizing, and commissions community art for and by people of color in the 49507 neighborhood.
Artist: iamellawebber, ellasartgalleryllc
Location: fortyacresgr
703 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Artist E'lla Webber created this expressive and powerful mural – “Rooted” – as part of the_diatribe’s 49507 Project.
About The 49507 Project:
Launched by the Diatribe, the 49507 Project is a POC-LGBTQ and youth-led project, rooted in collaboration, that teaches art and event organizing, and commissions community art for and by people of color in the 49507 neighborhood.
Society programs people into believing that it is normal to dislike what they do, that work isn’t enjoyable, and that successful dreamers are one in a million.
We live to shatter that false narrative, and manifest thoughts into becoming things.
News link in bio!
The Grand Showcase is Nov 23. Come dream with us!
#MyDiatribe #GrandRapids #UniteThroughDiatribe #SpokenWord #poetry
Today wrapped up our #WritingToRightWrongs programming at Godwin Heights High School!
During the final session of each program, students are encouraged to share their poetry. It always blows us away how talented these young people are.
Some are shy, some have to work through their preconceived notions of what #poetry is and isn't, some are hesitant to share what they've written... but they push through.
We're so grateful for our teaching artists for the work they put in, the students for following along, their parents and educators for supporting their work, and our #donors for making all of this possible.
We continue to #UniteThroughDiatribe in schools, virtually AND in person, thanks to you.
Images by @quinnkphoto
Artist: plutomonday
Location: grabblocal
Grand Rapids Area Black Businesses
2012 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
Artist Esan Sommersell created this powerful mural – titled “Generational W(H)ealth” – as part of the_diatribe’s 49507 Project.
Artist Statement:
“Your health is wealth. ‘Generational W(H)ealth’ highlights not only the desire in the Black community to build Wealth to pass on to the next generation but the Health disparities that exist within the Black community. Social determinants of Health and the lack of access to quality and affordable healthcare – including mental health – creates additional barriers to attaining generational wealth and good overall health.
In this piece you see generations of Black people joyous. They are amongst a stream of wealth and the finest treasures as their smiles rest on top.
Similar to a job posting flyer with tabs of contact information we often see on light posts with a call to action to ‘please take with you,’ my hope is that the people of 49507 gaze at this piece and leave with a smile.”
About The 49507 Project:
The 49507 Project is a Black, Brown, Queer, and youth-led project rooted in collaboration to help make truly public art steered by the community where these pieces will live. This community art will utilize artists that are a reflection of those who have been underserved in the 49507 neighborhood.
About The Diatribe:
The Diatribe uses performing arts to empower young people to share their stories, raise awareness of social issues, and create change within their communities.
[Click the link in our bio to learn more about the Diatribe and the 49507 Project.]
Artist: solasink
Location: 1221 Madison Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
Artist Joshua Solas created this brilliant mural – “Everybody Eats” – as part of the_diatribe’s 49507 Project.
Artist Statement from IG:
“The mural is an attempt to encapsulate themes of love, aspiration, and community.
Reading from right to left, the story begins with one person running with their wealth. We then realize that he is not alone as others are running with theirs. We finally see that they are running to their family to share the wealth. I think this is important in any community of people. We must have the will to share our wealth with each other – whether it’s knowledge, opportunity, funds, or food. For a healthy community to exist, it’s important to help each other, fill each other’s gaps, so we can become a more well-rounded community.
‘Running’ in my work has a few interpretations. When I depict someone running it is often unclear if they are running from something or towards something. In life I feel we often have to run or feel like we have to run. It’s worth it when we run for the right reasons.
The Afros loosely resemble halos to represent higher consciousness and a sense of higher purpose. The Broken Arrow in the first part of the mural (right side) represents the obstacles people face when running through life. It being broken is a testament to one’s strength if they face life head-on.”