Blooming Softly, Fighting Fiercely: A Night of Poetry with Simply Ayanna

Ayanna Johnson (she/they) is an unapologetically Black queer spoken word poet, environmentalist, educator, and activist. Through poetry and performance, Ayanna (@simply_ayanna2.0) invites people to explore healing, liberation, and self-expression rooted in identity, resilience, and community. She just published her first poetry book and is excited to share with the Collide + East Passyunk community.

This event will be a workshop that celebrates identity, queerness, resilience, and the earth, just as Ayanna's debut book Simply Ayanna celebrates.

This workshop will allow an opportunity for those with deeper questions about the book to ask and have fruitful conversations.

Through a mix of performance, dialogue, and hands-on creative activities for participants, Ayanna will bring the characteristics of her book to life! Hear excerpts from the book read aloud by the author herself, dive into writing prompts that inspire some of the art in its pages, and participate in a collaborative poetry writing exercise with other attendees.

The experience is equal parts art and fun. Arrive with an open mind and a willingness to get curious about your own creative voice!

Issues of Simply Ayanna will be available for signing and purchase.

Food and drinks will also be available at the bar. Please tip your bartender and enjoy the evening!

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Host or Publisher Collide Zine