America SCORES New York - 2022 Poetry Anthology

Where is the love? We are the love We see the suffer It makes us An Anthology of poems from the poet-athletes tougher WeNew seeYork discrimination of America SCORES Let’s come together as a nation Respect for all races With many different faces Kindness to all No matter big or small Where is the love? Love begins from inside And spreads to our outside Love is powerful and long lasting It remains the same and is everlasting We believe in each other Faith in our sister and brother The world is our family With love, kindness, and respect for all Where is the love? We are the love Where is the love? We are

I Feel, I Hope Yo Siento, Yo Espero

Foreword At America SCORES New York, we teach our poet-athletes to use poetry as a tool and that is something I've experienced firsthand. As a young poet-athlete at PS 153, poetry helped me get through my fear of getting judged for not being the best at spelling or at grammar. I remember being apprehensive at times and it affected my level of participation, but because I was good at drawing, I used that to my advantage. I focused on making my poems as colorful and exciting as my drawings and, that way, I was able to break out of my shell! My teammates really liked my drawings and I would help them draw -- in return, they would help me with my spelling.

I brought these lessons of teamwork and confidence into my role as Director of Writing Programs. As someone who feels most comfortable contributing to a team rather than taking point, it took time to get used to this brand new leadership role but it's been such a joy to imagine the possibilities that could come from this new role for the organization, our poet-athletes and their families. Maya Angelou said it best, “You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.” I believe that through poetry, and the many different special events that include a platform for our poet-athletes to perform and raise their voices with pride and courage, we are fueling their creativity and passion for self-expression, public speaking, activism, and social justice.

Working alongside my peers as a poet-athlete and as a director, I've realized that teamwork applies both on the field and inside the classroom. After no longer feeling that pressure I felt of not being smart enough, I was able to be myself and open up more. I definitely took that experience with me when I started coaching and always tried to encourage teamwork and small group work because it helps with team bonding and forming friendships.

In this anthology, our poet-athletes are sharing their experiences, their hopes for the future, and their vision for the world with you -- their teammates. We hope that, as you read their words, you'll feel and hope alongside them and continue to join them in their journey of envisioning a brighter, better future.

Chris Lantigua Director of Writing Programs

WHAT IS

JUSTICE? In November 2021, poet-athletes from elementary schools throughout NYC came together at Harlem's Riverbank State Park for our annual celebration of poetry and soccer -- Fall Frenzy.

Alongside an exciting soccer tournament, our poet-athletes took time to reflect on what justice meant to them and how they see diversity in their communities. In the poems that follow, take a glimpse into the lives and hearts of our young people and experience their world through their eyes.

WHAT IS JUSTICE? • WHAT IS JUSTICE? • WHAT IS JUSTICE? • WHAT IS JUST

I see diversity I hear the screams demanding to end adversity I smell the negative particles that damage the earth I taste food from the curbside deli rather than my mother’s specialty I feel like a reader, a neighbor, a human that is at home in despair I hope the looks of you and I don't separate you and I in segregation Omaima M. Mott Hall, Harlem

I see different cultures I hear speeches for good causes I smell hope I taste positivity from famous people I feel inspired to help a good cause I hope for a positive change in racism Diego J. Mott Hall, Harlem I see people playing soccer I hear people talking about their games I smell garbage coming from the trash I taste pollution I feel bad I hope that this can stop Miguel G. PS 66, Bronx

I see an open soccer field, kids running up and down I hear the wind blowing I smell the air wind passing through I taste apples, crunchy I feel cold breeze I hope for summer warm days Joshua H. PSMS 161, Harlem

WHAT IS JUSTICE? • WHAT IS JUSTICE? • WHAT IS JUSTICE? • WHAT IS JUST

I see a soccer field and a soccer ball I hear excitement, a lot of noise on the field I smell sweat and polluted air I taste the goodness of victory I feel confident I hope I can win again Gerardo V. PSMS 161, Harlem Yo veo niños jugando futbol Yo escucho el egoísmo y cosas malas Yo huelo el olor de la victoria Yo pruebo la comida que viene después del partido Yo siento el frio por eso es que hay que ponerse Su abrigo para que no tenga frio Yo espero que se abrigan bien para poder jugar bien, Sin trampa Jhordan T. PS 153, Harlem I see pollution and garbage all around I hear everybody fighting, I wish that they didn’t have to fight I smell dog poop, I wish people would pick up after their dogs I taste better food in the future I feel bad about what is happening around the world I hope the future is better Derrick V. PS 153, Harlem I see kindness in NYC, but I want to change the minds of those who smoke I hear inappropriate music and it’s too loud I smell lots of smoke, even with my mask on I taste salt in this community, smokers & careless people I feel uncomfortable, but also content because people in NYC are kind I hope that half of my community changes their attitudes Andy M. PS 153, Harlem

WHAT IS JUSTICE? • WHAT IS JUSTICE? • WHAT IS JUSTICE? • WHAT IS JUST

Yo veo que el planeta necesita estar más limpio Yo escucho que el planeta llora porque está sucio Yo huelo que el planeta necesita un baño Yo saboreo el deseo de que todos tengan el planeta en su mente Yo siento que el planeta está feliz cuando pensamo en el ¡Yo espero que el mundo entero esté limpio!

Deiber T. PS 139, Brooklyn I see that people don't have money I hear that many people lost their jobs during the Pandemic It smells disgusting because of what’s happened to them I taste bitter and bad I feel the pain that those people feel I hope that those who can give money are able to do something to help Santiago R. PS 139, Brooklyn I see pollution and climate change I hear more of everyone’s voices I smell the dirtiness of the city I taste s’mores ice cream, it tastes like heaven I feel tired of having to do homework I hope that my team wins Xiomara L. PS 153, Harlem I see people bullying and that not right, I see racism all over I hear people saying mean words to each other I smell smoke and that's not cool I taste that same smoke when I am outside and its toxic for my health I feel confident and I feel special I hope I get a scholarship to go to college when I am older Hailey O. PS 139, Brooklyn

WHAT IS JUSTICE? • WHAT IS JUSTICE? • WHAT IS JUSTICE? • WHAT IS JUST

I see family in my community I hear loud music in my community I smell nice waffles in my community I taste pizza that my dad is making for me at home I feel happy that I have a world to live in and a community That accepts me for being myself I hope that everybody gets supported in this world Milo S. PS 375, Brooklyn I see people being mean to people because of their skin color I hear people not being nice with their words I smell the flowers mixed with garbage I taste the yummy gum that brings me joy I feel sad because people are getting hurt because of Their skin color and the way they look I hope that the world will change Rebecca S. PS 375, Brooklyn I see teamwork and leadership I hear communication and loud taking I smell roses and wet grass I taste nasty foods I feel pain when people kick me when I play I hope everybody could make a change D'Juan D. PS 375, Brooklyn I see a ball, field, kids playing soccer I hear kids laughing and shouting I smell the fresh air I taste emptiness I feel good and amazing I hope that everyone does a great job Hanna L. Dos Puentes, Washington Heights

WHAT IS JUSTICE? • WHAT IS JUSTICE? • WHAT IS JUSTICE? • WHAT IS JUST

I see the effort that everyone is putting to do a good job I hear communication amongst teammates and coaches I smell the air blowing through the wind I taste the snacks I feel like I always try my best I hope that everyone is good and feel empowered to be better Robin G. Dos Puentes, Washington Heights I see littering, bad for mother earth I hear mother nature I smell sweet scent of pie I taste delicious cake I feel something good is going to happen I hope my family is always safe and sound Cristina A. PS 98, Inwood I see hard working people in my community I hear them hard at work I smell greatness I taste some lunch I feel hungry for progress I hope we can heal the world Justin C. PS 98, Inwood I see pieces of paper and trash on the ground I hear dogs barking I smell cupcakes I taste the delicious cupcakes that turn my mouth water I feel happy!

I hope that the world never ends Valentina R. PS 98, Inwood

Guest Poem

The Struggle That We Face Kayla S., Ryan P. “aka RPG”& Jeremy R. “aka J.R. Da Don”

I am Dominican I got generations behind it My people are enslaved by Spain Dipped and chose a different timing I am Puerto Rican But they know nothing of this Puerto Rican The way I look the way I speak and the life that I am living Defines who I am but my heart does too I wear this flag on my skin Llevo esta bandera en mi piel They told me my folks don’t have a history I spent months proving them wrong And I got a heart but it just gets colder from all of my scars We started grinding and farming the food Got decisions to choose, recipes being fused that have millions of kids amused But Puerto Rico officially became a commonwealth in 1948 I will not hide my Puerto Rican race My people go through a struggle every day and that's just a fact Taking a rogue life because of a circumstance just because we black Because that's what we grew up being It's funny it almost hit the truth too They know nothing, a self providing, cattle, sugar cane, coffee I will not be ashamed of my Puerto Rican blood They only see nice beaches and lakes but from where my family is from it was hard to even get a plate, Some eating stakes and living in estates while children and grandmas are in the huts that they make

THE STRUGGLE THAT WE FACE • THE STRUGGLE THAT WE FACE • THE STRUGG

We fought in the Spanish American War of 1988 after being attacked Then they wonder why I won't stand down I am Hondurian and I am speaking up but I ain't here to play We stronger together but we gonna try to kill each other and that ain't right On their own, that's a bunch of little kids that had to think a little bit more grown And the cycle continues and continues until you feel alone But they know nothing because since 1917 Puerto Rico became US territory and now we are given citizenship Tired of seeing a black man kill another black man and take his life Well, I guess that is what i grew up around and the pain ain’t light As a Hispanic, some people feel like we can’t be depressed and you can never confess on how you are emotional stressed and how your life is a mess and so eventually you are totally screwed They know nothing because our Puerto Rican Flag will never be forgotten Used to get talked about because I ain’t speak English or had the best shoes Guess I was distinguished who's lost and confused but now I’m on track and these haters can snooze, Came stronger than ever and they have no proof And people wonder how I know this, well I am that too Porque lo que sientes si no lo siento, no dices nada porque tu eres tu and that just leaves me confused because it switches up your salud So as they clown us for not having history, we did things as a whole, we made mistakes, corrections, we got up and showed them what it means to be Puerto Ricans Millions of kids afectado a todos, ella o a él, en mi piel este mundo es triste solo tienes que aprender so please stop telling me that it is going to be okay They told me my folks have no history I spend months proving them wrong As a Hispanic community this is the struggle that we face Just because our family was born into a different race Now we are struggling to take their place

The Bronx "Then we were gone, in the heat and draft of our silver, rattling over the river into the South Bronx, against whose greasy skyline rose that neoned billboard for cigarettes which hostages my attention, always, as it is meant to do, its motto ruby in the dark morning: ALIVE WITH PLEASURE." - An excerpt from "Nights Nothings Again" by Carl Sandburg

THE BRONX • THE BRONX •THE BRONX •THE BRONX •THE BRONX •THE BRONX •TH

Videos Games Daniel C. PS 66, Bronx Video games are cool Because they make the game look soooo real The graphics are amazing And some games even have 1st person mode Also it looks like real life Like a real life download Video games are cool Because you feel invincible

The Fun Dog Dominick P. PS 66, Bronx The fun dog had a lot of fun Catching the ball in the sun The dog has a son named Jamal That always goes to the mall He gets to eat Then he goes home to sleep The dad dog does the same He goes to the same mall He gets food to eat And then he goes home most of all

Washington Heights and Inwood "In the Heights I've got today!

And today's all we got, so we cannot stop This is our block!

In the Heights I hang my flag up on display It reminds me that I came from miles away My family came from miles away..."

- An excerpt from "In the Heights" by Lin Manuel Miranda

WASHINGTON HEIGHTS • INWOOD • WASHINGTON HEIGHTS • INWOOD •WASHI We Are the Love PS 98, Inwood Where is the love?

We are the love Where is the love?

We are the love We see the suffer It makes us tougher We see discrimination Let’s come together as a nation Respect for all races With many different faces Kindness to all No matter big or small Where is the love?

We are the love Where is the love?

We are the love Love begins from inside And spreads to our outside Love is powerful and long-lasting It remains the same and is everlasting

We believe in each other Faith in our sister and brother The world is our family With love, kindness, and respect for all Where is the love?

We are the love Where is the love?

We are the love No matter white, black, brown, or yellow We are all in this together We are the change we want to see in the world It all begins with us Where is the love?

We are the love Where is the love?

We are the love

WASHINGTON HEIGHTS • INWOOD • WASHINGTON HEIGHTS • INWOOD •WASHI

I Wish Dos Puentes Girls, Washington Heights I wish COVID would end I want life to be normal again Ending COVID would be great For everyone to be happy all day!

Let’s end COVID To stop people from dying and having to wear masks I wish for no more violence To have more peace with our families Mi deseo es que no maltraten y humillen a los niños Con hacerle bullying No importa el color de tu piel, si eres diferente a los demás Lo que sí importa es la clase de persona que eres I wish we could bring back people that we’ve loss So that our hearts grow with happiness I wish for no more animal abuse My favorite animal is a monkey. What is yours?

I wish for world peace An infinite feeling of freedom to imagine incredible things Like being able to speak to animals or a cake that regenerates After being eaten Let’s all strive to make our wishes for a better world A reality together!

WASHINGTON HEIGHTS • INWOOD • WASHINGTON HEIGHTS • INWOOD •WASHI

Team Spirit Dos Puentes Boys, Washington Heights Who are we?!

Electrocuted Cheetahs!

Who are we?!

Electrocuted Cheetahs!

Who are we?!

Electrocuted Cheetahs!

You know who we are?! No, I’ll tell you when we're in a game and you fall We always get back up You have to stay strong Our name is the electrocuted cheetahs When we play soccer I get hyped up!

I think there are two different parts I think the electrocuted part is our mental strength Like if you’re losing you can mentally say “We can still win” and actually end up winning the other part, the cheetah represents our physical toughness Fighting through until the end To be an Electrocuted Cheetah You need speed, strength, athleticism, motivation, and pride Nothing can stop us from our cheetah stride!

Who are we?!

Electrocuted Cheetahs!

Who are we?!

Electrocuted Cheetahs!

Who are we??

Electrocuted Cheetahs!

When I Read Lester E. PS 173, Washington Heights The fun dog had a lot of fun Catching the ball in the sun The dog has a son named Jamal That always goes to the mall He gets to eat Then he goes home to sleep The dad dog does the same He goes to the same mall He gets food to eat And then he goes home most of all

Guest Poem Patience Valerie R.

Time is limited, feelings are mutual.

Emotions rise, money comes and goes.

Souls passing, people gain.

The world stops for no one.

Choosing hunger over company.

Money over friends.

Anger speaks before thoughts.

Reckless, I know.

No point in attention, grief after losses.

Tunnel vision from the pain, loneliness becomes peace.

Love turns into hatred.

Fire uprises, silence over takes.

The list goes on describing these feelings, physically, mentally and emotionally.

The thought of being in a room full of judgment.

Trying to realize I’m not the only one carrying an overload of emotions.

Not the only impatient character in the room.

Comfort coming from touch, words, smell.

I’m lost in a world, I don’t want to be in.

A world where patience is the key to success.

Where love comes and goes.

Along with family, friends, and stress.

The Imagine of success.

The cycle of life. The rocky roads.

The determination to reach the top.

Blank spaces, no emotions, the sense of being lost.

Brooklyn "Trails of black smoke from the incinerators; Bits of cardboard faming in the cage On top of huge chimneys.

You are walking over Brooklyn, Climbing the space between planets"" - An excerpt from "Walking Over Brooklyn" by Paul Zweig

BROOKYLN • BROOKYLN • BROOKYLN • BROOKYLN • BROOKYLN • BROOKYLN • BR

Respect PS 375, Brooklyn RESPECT Live it!

Love it!

Learn it!

About Social Justice Ayanna L. & Rebecca S. PS 375, Brooklyn Justice in the terms of distribution is Wealth Opportunities Privileges All within a society

Again RESPECT Live it!

Love it!

Learn it!

We should all have respect If you learn it, you will earn it

Sometimes people need a change Always show respect and help others Love one another Create a safe environment Always be positive Believe in yourself Stand up for yourself and others Equality is for you and me JUSTICE FOR ALL! We all can change the world

Equality D'Juan D. PS 375, Brooklyn Equality is treating people the same Equality is another way of balancing but with respect Equality is treating people with the same amount of kindness The same amount of fairness No matter if somebody is different Or if there homeless or not You still have to treat them with respect We have to be fair We have to let people feel welcome To feel important Let them feel like they should be here Lets treat others with the same amount of respect love and kindness

BROOKYLN • BROOKYLN • BROOKYLN • BROOKYLN • BROOKYLN • BROOKYLN • BR

A Good Leader Adiola A. PS 375, Brooklyn A good leader leads by example A good leader never stands still A good leader communicates A good leader creates a safe space A good leader keeps everyone in order A good leader is a good supporter A good leader always takes one for the team A good leader never gives up on the dream

Me and my Message Carlos M, Elijah T, and Tessa Jean B PS 375, Brooklyn This is my poem I am writing this because I love to write Then, this is what I have to say I LOVE TEAMWORK

Good Luck!

Alinah B. PS 375, Brooklyn I love when we work together as a team We win We have fun I want to thank my teachers The ones that help us play soccer They teach us to be nice We should always work together We should always treat each other the same If we have team work The more we get better

You need to work together to win a game I love working with my teammates You should always be kind to your teammates Never fight with them or be mean We should never say something that's offensive You should always say nice things No matter how mad they make you feel Overall I love my teammates I love my school My teacher and my classmates And my friends Thank you to my coaches Thank you to my family Thank you to myself Bye!

BROOKYLN • BROOKYLN • BROOKYLN • BROOKYLN • BROOKYLN • BROOKYLN • BR

My Experience Fatoumata D. PS 375, Brooklyn I speak Fuliani I can also speak American I always try and never give up There are things I believe in I love that everyone works together It's not all about winning It's all about having fun Having fun with your friends Even if they are not your friend.

I am New Mariama D. PS 375, Brooklyn I am from Africa When I came I said Hey! I start to talk to people New people I feel good with my teammates When we play, it's fun On the last day of soccer We scored a goal I was happy

Women Having Power Kethana A. PS 375, Brooklyn

I made new friends And we have so much fun I am new

Women are WONDERFUL! Opening our heart to being successful My teammates help me mature by teaching me to be a better person Energetic as I can be!

Never losing hope I always achieving my dream Entertainment doesn't always have to show boys Men aren't always the case Powerful women are here to stay!

Open mindedness is something I hold Wake up women, you have to score a goal!

Exaggerating is something I could never do Rights! I have rights!

My mind helps me with strategy Equality please!

New beginnings is what woman need This is My Time! And My Power!

BROOKYLN • BROOKYLN • BROOKYLN • BROOKYLN • BROOKYLN • BROOKYLN • BR

Soccer Player MBalou D. PS 375, Brooklyn There are so many positions in soccer I like to play as the goalie I also like to play as defense I like to play because its fun In soccer I feel happy and excited I like to win Sometimes I lose, but thats okay When my team scores a goal It feels good

Blue Gabriela and Hailey PS 375, Brooklyn Blue like the ocean like my motions Blue like the sky like goodbye Blue like a ring like the spring Blue like a whale like a snail Blue like a shark like a park Blue like a shirt like a skirt Blue like a fluffy pillow

I am a good soccer player I am a strong woman I respect my teammates I know that we are going to be better together

Joy & Merry

Every role gets us to scoring a goal!

Westley S. PS 375, Brooklyn

Rhyme Aayan K. PS 139, Brooklyn

I go outside, then I see the merry Joy tint joys me inside When it’s a joy to play, it’s such a hooray!

When I say hooray, it's another play At night when I see Santa, I know the presents will be coming soon It’s a joy to the merry, and it’s a merry, to you

I always rhyme in time I like the color lime I play with the deer I don’t have four fingers I like songs but sometimes I don't play it I like to game I go in flame We are not the same because I put milk before Raise your hand if you're part of the gang

My Sister Avrielle S. PS 375, Brooklyn

My sister is 5 years old Her skin is very gold My sister smiles and her friend’s name is Kilye I always try to be nice But her hair smells like lice We both play PK XD. Thank you :)

Guest Poem An Achievement Johanna S. We all should win an award for living It's the thing we strive for Every day each and every one of us wakes up Some faster than others And the rest stay dreaming I can't help but wonder what starts it all Is it the support from your family Or is it how welcoming your friends make you feel No! I got it!

Its because everyone gets rewarded for things they sometimes didn't even earn We each have motives Some are darker than others We each feel purpose whether its good or bad All of us carry intentions that can be pure or evil But we all should win an award for living It's not fun to fight We all know people go through the motions I know I do One minute especially now, I feel Sad, scared Tired, alone Angry, I'm always scared Scared of the things I don't know, to what's happening next.

Putting up with all these emotions All these triggers All of the disturbance in behavior that eats through my skin It's not fun to fight We all are worth it!

I feel like I'm growing Growing out of the fear of never being okay Growing out of the fear that a lot is gonna happen Am I going to constantly feel defeated at the end?

No! I'm gonna grow into being okay And It's okay to not be okay you won the game of life and you're still winning because you're still here You have so much to offer and gain, you just have to understand and realize it

AN ACHIEVEMENT • AN ACHIEVEMENT • AN ACHIEVEMENT • AN ACHIEVEMENT • Because you're worth a lot I look back and realize A lot of people didn't make it. I made it I still have things I got to carry on You You still have things to carry on We all are worth it!

It takes a lot to realize your purpose Some people don't understand how much they really mean to the world and themselves We all have a purpose Some people just don’t understand what their purpose is yet Many people get mentally warped into the negative things forgetting what they really have and what they can have There's more to life than just the bad things because when it passes there is always so much good if you know how to fail and what it feels like your gonna know how to win and truly embrace that feeling all ages all classes need to feel like they are worth something in this world No matter any situation don’t let it make you feel like less of yourself.

Don't let it undermine who you truly are What you truly are Embrace yourself Why? It takes a lot to realize your purpose Realize what you have achieved Take a moment to look back on all you've done Every mistake you made Every moment you cried The times you’ve laughed Lend a helping hand I achieved greatness from the beginning of the time till now But I pushed myself even when I thought I couldn't continue to go on Did you fight, even though it wasn't fun?

Did you realize your worth, thinking you were not worthy enough?

Did you find your purpose, when everyone else said you didn't have one?

Give yourself an award for living Because living is the greatest achievement of all Live the life you were given Realize what you have achieved And celebrate your achievement!

Harlem "Come, Let us roam the night together Singing.

I love you.

Across The Harlem roof-tops Moon is shining.

Night sky is blue.

Stars are great drops Of golden dew.

Down the street A band is playing.

I love you.

Come, Let us roam the night together Singing."

- "Harlem Night Song" by Langston Hughes

HARLEM • HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •

A Series of 'Me & My Name' Poem PS 153, Harlem

S-pecial C-onfident A-mazing R-espectful L-iving E-xcellent T-alented & Thankful - Scarlet P.

Y-outhful U-nbeatable R-espectful I-dea D-andy I-rony A-mazing

L-ovely U-nique N-ifty A-mazing - Luna P.

K-nowledgeable A-mazing M-iracle R-emarkable Y-ay!

N-ifty - Kamryn M.

B-lame A-mazing I-ndependent L-ovely E-xcellent Y-outh - Bailey P.

J-oyful A-ppreciation Z-estful A-mazing Y-outful A-miable H-appy - Jazayah J.

- Yuridia C.

M-ad A-pple R-adiant W-arm A-mazing K-ind A-ctive T-houghtful E-nthusiastic - Kate A.

- Marwa F.

G-reat A-mazing B-rave R-espectful I-nspiration E-xcellent L-ovely A-cceptful - Gabriela G.

HARLEM • HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •

Best Friends for Life Mama K. PS 153, Harlem Their names are Jefferson, Algenis, Acker & Eifry One of my best friends told me they had a six pack He showed me in his stomach he had a six pack in front of me Algenis said he has a crush on someone in our class but he won’t tell us who He might know a bit about girls more than us But Jefferson is the funniest!

He might be the one that knows about girls more than alllllllll of us!

We give each other funny names They named me Wawa but my real name is Mama I don't get used to Wawa but I am trying my best to make them laugh We call Acker, Acorn We call Jefferson, Juice We call Eifry, Fan We call Algenis, the AC that we use for summer This is my story with my best friends

If I Can Change the World JeanCarlos P. PS 153, Harlem I would get rid of my mom’s cooking…It’s terrible Don’t say anything or she will throw a chancleta on me People are loud and dogs are pooping on the sidewalk I say “Please put a pamper on your dog”

If I Can Change the World Roque S. PS 153, Harlem I would play soccer everyday Be a gamer for life Eat my mom’s rice and beans Oh! And keep this hair silky

HARLEM • HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM • Don't Smoke PSMS 161, Harlem I am seeing people smoking and I want to stop people from smoking I wonder if the people that smoke know that they could die I hear people coughing and dying I see people smoking I want me and other people to make the world a better place so people don’t smoke I am a helper so people don’t smoke around our neighborhood I pretend that is not happening because I would cry I feel bad for the people inhaling toxic metal I touch cigarette ash I worry that the air will disappear from the toxic smoke I cry because the birds cannot breath fresh and clean air I am hopeful one day they will stop smoking I understand why people smoke because it’s an addiction I say “stop smoking!”

I dream about the world with people not smoking I try to support people stop smoking I hope they will stop smoking I am hoping one day people will stop smoking

Who Are My Feelings To You Ameil T. PSMS 161, Harlem Getting pushed to the ground Scared My family is watching me getting searched Frustrated and embarrassed My son is crying Fear, and anger, and rage My wife is recording ‘cause this ain’t right Irritated, then mad, then livid, and disgusted The racism in this world Furious then upset, and confused “Who do you think you are,” you say Reflect, then loss Well let me tell you who I am Empowered.

I am a black man

HARLEM • HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •

Bones Julianna R. PSMS 161, Harlem My bones are breaking and I’m so small Everyone says, “you’re so skinny I can see your ribcage.”

“You should eat more” But nothing feels better than cold water on an empty stomach And chewing sugar free gum to try and curb my hunger No one understands Strangers are so quick to judge “You’re so skinny, You’re skin and bone,” they say Stop telling me to eat Because every time I eat a full meal, I want to just puke all over the floor Of course, I can’t So stop telling me to eat

Praise Yourself Tyler T. PS 192, Harlem Hi my name is Tyler, I usually play video games Like MK11 aka Mortal Kombat 11 and Street Fighter V and Roblox and fortnite I like Egg and Cheese on the regular and McChicken in McDonalds I have a lot of cousins and a lot of friends too I am the son of love in my family!

Our father is God. God is the person who made Earth, Planets and the sun If it wasn’t for God we would not be a thing!

I have a family in North America in the United States!

My Mom loves me! and she is really nice Treats me like I am an animal for example: like my 2 pet hamsters and dog. sometimes she gets mad at me because I do something bad So thats my world and life and my family is caring and nice to me! The End

HARLEM • HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM • I Am Yaretzy G. PS 192, Harlem I am Yaretzy I am self centered it makes me more calm and it makes me reflect on myself My culture is from Mexico and that is something I am proud of Video games make me feel more relaxed The beauty that I feel, I carry with in my hands my hands keep my secret talent my secret talent is art one day I plan on being a fashionista to help humans be happy and show their natural born beauty

I Am Elaina G. PS 192, Harlem I am from a family who believes in god I am a middle child, I am an older sister and a little sister I am defined as short by my older brother From my little brother I am defined as tall One feature that I feel special about me is my brain I’m smarter than anybody in my class The most important element of my character is my generous spirit I like to help people I am here to help anyone in need And to make the world a better place

Be Appreciative of What you Have Clarabella J. PS 192, Harlem I am 10 years old and I can understand that this world is not a very good place Many people are dying and no one is doing anything about it At least not for most people You should appreciate that you have a home and a family, other people don’t Many people wish that they have what you have Many people are in the streets and are starving and are cold They don't have coats or blankets like you do So appreciate what you have because many people have far less

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Where Do I Come From Hamilton Grange Middle School, Harlem Hi I’m Tanya Olledio My name, two names, two worlds The dawnity of my identity like two sides of the same poem With two roads there should be plenty of room But where do I fit? Is this seat taken or is that seat taken?

There is never quite enough room is there?

Where do I come from?

Where do I come from?

Born in the island of the Dominican Republic en el barrio de San Francisco de Macorís, Santiago de los Caballeros, Santo Domingo, Quito, Ecuador Guayaquil, Ecuador Táchira, Venezuela Moca, Dominican Republic My family is from everywhere in the Dominican Republic Some are from Sosúa, some are from Moca and some are from Mao I am from an island called the Dominican Republic I’m from the Caribbean a place where most people speak spanish A place that is known for sharing an island with Haiti I am from a place where there is many different skin colors A place where beaches water is clear, you can see your feet I am from where there are a lot places you can take pretty pictures Where I am from there are good food like Sancocho and Mangu Also there are good drinks like Morir Sonando, Country Club Soda and many more Dominican Republic is known for where Christopher Columbus colonized I am from a place that has good music such as Merengue, bachata y reggaeton Where I am from we are always going to be late so make sure to tell us 5 hours ahead And also where I am from we have long lasting parties until the next day Where do I come from?

I come from the rhythm of Juan Luis Guerra I come from Reggaeton I come from Bachata I come from Bad Bunny I come from Salsa I come from Joropo I come from Reggaeton I come from Mountains

HARLEM • HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM • I am from beautiful mountains to amazing beaches I am from long nights and sleepovers A welcoming family and kind communities are both of the things that shape Who I am I come from empanadas y pan con queso I come from loving parents and fun cousins, christmas nights I come from everything and everywhere We are all the same in our own place

Lets Talk 2020 Mott Hall Middle School, Harlem Let's talk 2020!

Black lives matter …. Or not Did it matter when the cop kneeled on his neck?

Did it matter when she was shot in her own apartment?

Did it matter when he yelled “I can’t breathe!”

Did it even matter that they died Did those victims' worlds have to stop so ours could spin?

Lets talk 2020!

One in five police officers abuse their power One thousand people die every year due to police brutality Lets talk 2020!

They say it came from a bat That they were trying to affect us, what?

Discrimination against Asians because of misinformation Can we discuss and research before we make more accusations? *everyone starts coughing* You cough and sneeze and they look at you funny Can’t a person have allergies or their nose runny?

Can we take a moment to discuss virtual learning?

It felt like my education and focus was churning and burning Our families didn’t understand the importance of our education Just because we were home didn’t mean it was vacation Do this, do that Do chores, babysit, all of it I’m surprised we made it through it And didn’t give up on any of it The teachers tell me to mute my mic I forget and all you hear is My wild family going crazy It makes me feel like I’m just a child

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And lastly, We got this testing, long lines and less of doctors time Lets talk 2020!

And say how we all survived it We made it through For a better school For a better environment So now we leave you with just one question, Are you ready to start anew?

Open Book Mia B. Mott Hall Middle School, Harlem I’ve opened a book and found myself drowning Reading word by word as if those were my surroundings As I slowly forget about the homework that’s not done My mind is deep in this fantasy These words become real with meaning These lies and betrayals that are taking place are too strong for me to read With romance and long dresses Or murder mysteries and depressions I’m now stuck in this unreal reality, There’s no way out anymore While reading the lines of this mesmerizing book, I hear my mom calling for me at my door My surroundings unblur And now I’m back where I was.

The murder and romance that I read for hours hasn’t taken me far enough The feeling of getting lost in a book is unreal And a way to escape from the world

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Risk to Opportunity Omaima M. Mott Hall Middle School, Harlem A secret is what lingers in a discussion of a camp in the summer Some say soccer, others poetry Little do they know, both are joined in the phrase “Where Poets Play” I lie for a man of gender equity, I fear the expose, the confidence He says “We’ll let you pass this time, you aren't meant to play” “Why?” I ask “You're a girl” “So!?”

Many females has technique over men because of their skills And not their gender I have skill over many as well “You’re still a girl” he saids Limited education to female, unlimited to male Despite the skill or knowledge comparison between a pair Courage or bravery aren’t granted in dangerous situations But in life changing ones Where a woman brings life despite her wellbeing, While men are made house heads The influence that you surround yourself with affects you Will you be that influencer?

Sure we have been given the same rights of clothing, government and jobs But we work for it while you were handed it on a silver platter We continue to be harassed, discriminated against and underestimated But we’ll persevere and succeed in the league of lead while many succeed in the league that was once given at home Time doesn't only heal it changes the reality of humanity and society Not alone but alongside the power of humankind The past was men, the future is female both constructed by humans boys and girls We are all divergents, we develop ourselves not determined by assign genders

HARLEM • HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM • Living in New York Malcolm S. Mott Hall Middle School, Harlem Living in New York is hard Danger is always somewhere to find It just makes you want to lose your mind It’s the big apple it’s supposed to be great Tell that to the people that have nothing to eat on their plate So many opportunities to be the best that you can be And bright lights as far as you can see You say that New York is the greatest city but trust me this city is far from pretty People are struggling to have hot water, while others are beating on their daughters People think living in New York must be the best but tell that to the cops eager to make an arrest People are judging you because of the color of your skin So don't get confuse New York is still the hardest place to live in Consent Karla U. Mott Hall Middle School, Harlem I miss the good old days...

I miss the good old days where women did not have to carry switch knives or blades to get protection Where we can walk freely at night With no fear, no tears What is wrong with humanity?

99%...

99% of women, what!?

No means no, she didn’t give you her consent Shifting back and forth with fear and tears A lump in her throat Lingering thoughts in her mind It’s me, it’s my fault I caused everything We aren’t just your little toy To twist around and play with To throw around and have fun with We are our own person We aren’t your property for you to call us princess or baby No, I’m my own person I’m Karla

HARLEM • HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM •HARLEM • Grabbed Karla U. Mott Hall Middle School, Harlem She can’t stop thinking of it All she sees is a dark blur She feels as she is in a cell The burn in her chest, swells His dark soul that she can’t control Grabbed!

She trembles and dies inside As she looks into his eyes She burned in his flame And she was never quite the same She was grabbed!

Her wings were cut Her spirit was struck Her head was empty Her heart bled Grabbed grabbed grabbed Her life was a thread A skinny thread That broke The devil knows.

She knows.

He knows.

America SCORES New York seeks to create equitable opportunities for young people to experience sport, express themselves and inspire positive change off the field and outside the classroom. Using a social justice youth development framework, we emphasize racial equity, fair play, teamwork and youth voice as key drivers of building a better, more equitable New York City.