Talking Change and Writing Poetry – A Powerful Day of Equity Progress

Mary Oriho is ready to be a high school senior.

“I already have the responsibilities I have now, but when I become a senior I’m going to grow up more and more,” says Oriho.  “I’m prepared to take that responsibility and opportunity to help inspire others to be better.

Mary is one of the students paying close attention to L.D. Kidd’s 100% Over Racism workshop this week.

“Today was special to me because I really enjoy stimulating my brain and understanding different backgrounds,” she adds.

“It gives students an opportunity to have their voices be heard, to do activities they might not get to do in the classroom on a regular basis and to address major social issues,” says L.D. Kidd, 100% Over Racism Owner.

From a poetry workshop in the morning, to a movement exercise in the afternoon, this is a day about finding a path and a voice for everyone.

“This really spoke to me because I like acting and writing and performing a lot of different stuff,” adds 9th Grader Jack Andersen. “This felt like another way to express my interests.”

The productivity is not stopping with students.

“I was just inspired to incorporate different writing things into a class that’s not a traditional writing class,” says Waukee High School Teacher Melissa Harmeyer.  “Then the ability to let kids be creative within that as well.”

While there’s a time limit on the workshop, what walks out with students really has no end.

“Hearing students talk about what they can do to engage their community, what they can do do be an ally, what they can do to stand up and support those around them,” adds Kidd. “Now they have the tools and ability to support them fully.”

 That’s exactly what students like Mary and Jack plan to do.

“It helps students feel more connected with different people that they might not go to school with,” says Andersen. “As well as teaching new things, like poetry and speaking and giving students skills they don’t already have.”

“It’s hard to show yourself and be who you truly are at times,” adds Oriho. “Once you grow up and understand there’s only one life and there’s only one you, you can make so much change.”

To learn more about 100% Over Racism, click here.