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A Young Poet's Words of Resistance: Ezequiel Correa's Triumph
Ezequiel Correa, a 17-year-old high school senior from Long Beach, California, is using poetry as a powerful tool for social change. His heartfelt work not only earned him the title of Youth Poet Laureate but also serves as a voice for his community amid challenging political climates. After Donald Trump’s election reignited fears around immigration policies, Correa felt compelled to write. Inspired by his Mexican heritage, he harnesses colors and imagery to depict the struggles and experiences of his culture. Colors like red and brown symbolize the soil of his ancestors, while urban images connect his work to life in Long Beach.
Lifting Voices Through Art and Expression
Correa’s poem, "My Ballad," encapsulates his mission to uplift marginalized voices and resist the social injustices faced by his community. His artistic journey blossomed through the Long Beach Youth Poet Laureate program, where mentors like Nancy Woo encourage young poets to acknowledge and articulate the crises in their world. She describes Correa as “wise beyond his years,” and praises his emotional honesty, noting the tears brought to the audience members during his performances.
The Intersection of Poetry and Activism
In August, Correa stood before school district administrators, contemplating how to address issues like immigration and discrimination in a politically charged environment. His decision to include a powerful preface to his reading served as a brave acknowledgment of the challenges faced by his community. Lucy Salazar, director of equity, engagement, and partnerships for Long Beach Unified School District, noted the significance of Correa’s words: "To acknowledge that in front of our administrators was really powerful. The more we continue to hear students, the better we do as adults.”
Influences and the Future of Youth Poetry
Correa draws inspiration from Amanda Gorman, the first national youth poet laureate, who captivated the nation with her performance during President Biden's inauguration. Like Gorman, Correa believes in the transformative power of poetry, asserting that it can bridge gaps in understanding and incite action. As he prepares for his future, possibly engaging in debates similar to those in Congress, he recognizes the value of crafting potent language.
A Mother's Pride and the Power of Expression
Correa's mother, Martina Gallardo, emphasizes the importance of his work during a time when threats of white supremacy are rising in the United States. She speaks of how her son's poetry allows people to empathize with different perspectives. Gallardo, who raised five children, sees immense potential in Correa’s voice, underscoring the importance of art as a critical tool for connection and understanding.
Engaging the Community Through Poetry
The Youth Poet Laureate program continues to take applications for the next cohort, emphasizing the importance of youth leadership in the arts. The program not only nurtures young poets but also strengthens the community by promoting civic engagement through artistic expression. With the guidance of mentors, Correa and the other ambassadors work on projects that foster dialogue and inclusivity within Long Beach.
Ultimately, Ezequiel Correa’s story is a testament to the resilience of youth in the face of adversity and the substantial impact that poetry can have in advocating for change. In a society where artistic expression is sometimes compromised, Correa’s journey reminds us that the arts remain vital in our collective pursuit of equity and understanding.
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