project peace journal 2012

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Social Justice

WatchMe Shine!

Guest Artists: Maya Azucena,Chris “Kazi“ Rolle& LiKWUiD Styleztalk to students about achieving their dreams.

Students organize for social change in their community.

Student accomplishments and artwork from BCCP 2012.

Brooklyn College Community Partnership theBCCP.org

The Journal is now online!Visit http://bit.ly/ProjectPeace

- Steve Ausbury2

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T he history of Project PEACE, BCCP’s flagship program, is as interesting as it is complex. But rather than

reflect on the years, I’d like to elaborate a little bit on why the arts are so important to young people in Brooklyn and how Project PEACE tries to serve this need.

The incredible work that fills these pages is the result of

DEDICATIONEXPERIMENTATIONCOLLABORATION

IMAGINATION

Teenage years are some crazy years! They are exciting, fun, difficult, scary, sad, boring, happy, maddening, delightful, and always intense. The arts are a way to place all of these emotions and experiences in perspective – a laboratory to hold them, examine them, live with them, and let them go. Even the ones we don’t like. Especially the ones we don’t like (Hint: They often make the best art). Project PEACE mixes in social issues with the arts so we can all ask questions like: Where am I going? Where have I been? Who am I? Where am I? What am I doing with my life? Do I like myself? Why doesn’t this person like me? Why do they like me? Is it because of my looks, class, gender, body, accent, race, sexual preference, age, nationality, size,

shade, talents, style?

Project PEACE wants to use the safe, non-judgmental space of the arts as a studio to experiment with the intense social-emotional issues of being a teen. (And by the way – even if as adults, we still ask those same questions, but it does get a whole lot easier to answer them.) Oh and those words over there… these are key both to arts and to life.

DEDICATE yourself to something you love – a skill, a talent, a belief, a dream. If you don’t know what that is….

EXPERIMENT – try different things until something strikes you and you don’t always have to go it alone even if it might feel that way sometimes, so...

COLLABORATE – that’s how people change the world.

IMAGINE – a better place or a worse place, but always your place in the world; draw it, paint it, dance it, act it, record it, photograph it, perform it, rhyme it and don’t let anyone ever take it away because your dream is your own.

For all readers, we hope you enjoy this wonderfully crafted and conceived journal. We are very proud of the work inside these pages. Know that you are indeed lucky to receive the words and images, the passion and the poetry, of Brooklyn’s future and it’s present.

D

edication

Expe

rimenta

tion

Collaboration

Imagin

ation

Welcome to the2012 Project Peace Journal

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Watch Me Shine

Welcome

Events & Community Service

BCCP Guest Artists

Social Justice

Student Art

Table of Contents

Ericka SanchezBushwick H.S.

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My Twelve Years of Project Peace

Since I began working with BCCP in 2001, Project Peace has been the centerpiece of our programs. It has shaped the way in which we have expanded and has always been at the core of how we work with students. It’s amazing to see the evolution of the Project Peace Journal. It has both led and followed as BCCP has grown and changed. The current version which for the first time will be available online is the latest in a long line of vehicles for student expression. Over the years we have gone from just essay writing to poetry to visual art to video to song. What’s great is that the quality of work and the ability of students to express themselves has just gotten better and better. Thanks to an amazing staff who have continuously created a supportive and open environment in which students are respected and heard and allowed to give voice to their most important thoughts and feelings.

- Diane Reiser

DianeReiser

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Happy V-DayBy Ruben NellisI.S. 291

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BCALThe Brooklyn College Arts Lab

Imprisoned for 5 years Trapped in a chain of thought.

Chased by the memories I once fought.Drowned in a river of tears

For i was imprisoned for five years.

Crying at my head to be free.So that the world can seeHow marvelous I can be.

But who cares?I was imprisoned for 5 years

Trapped in the dungeonOf everlasting confusion.

Living with peers that gradually increased My fears.But who cares?

I was imprisoned for five years.

But...Look at me now!

Watching nations bow.My destiny is but a stone throw;Only waiting for the cock’s crow.

Who would ever knowThat I was imprisoned for five years!

By Michael AwogbemiBCAL

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BCCP Events & Community Service

Our Trip to Brower Park By Alison Mercure, Walt Whitman M.S.

When school was over at 2:20,

I went downstairs to the

cafeteria to BCCP and I saw that

they were asking students to sit

down. Some students had to leave

because they did not get their trip

slips signed. So, I got a snack. I ate

pretzels and graham crackers with

apple juice. Miss Jill was taking

attendance for those who were

going, and I was one of them.

When it was time to leave, we

gathered our stuff and we had

to walk all the way to the Church

Ave station. We took the 2

train to Franklin Ave and then

we transferred to the 3 train to

Kingston Ave. We got off and

we were in Brower Park in Crown

Heights. We met Phil and he

showed us how to plant daffodil

bulbs. Phil showed us how to

dig in the dirt with a shovel and

put the bulbs in order. Then, we

covered them with dirt. And work,

work, work we did. After a while we

finally finished. So, we went over

to the other side to help Veronica

rake the leaves and put them in

black garbage bags. I collected

the leaves and we finally called it

a day. We took some pictures and

grabbed our backpacks and left the

park.

Well, I have to say, the trip was so

cool! But, the train ride, not so cool!

It was so crowded because it was

rush hour. Everyone almost fell on

the floor. We took the 3 and 2 train

back to Church Ave and we got off.

Unfortunately, the staff then told

everyone that they had to go home.

This was the best day ever!

The End!

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L to R, Top to Bottom, Sheena Minott, Dane Peters, Isaac Jean-Baptiste, Mickael Dejean, Jeff Jean, Natalie Yang, Kristelle Louis, Hadja Diop, Denisia Bowen, Jonathan Riviere, Medjine Exantus, Berlie Augustin, Kindersley Louis, Patrick Owusu, Bryant Cooper, Carl Lation, Claire Danies, Cindie Dube, Alison Mercure, Meryl George, Briannie Cooper, Jill Beale, Marvens Maurice, Rodley Lubin, Dodley Jean-Toussaint, Fabrice Maurice, Samuel Labastille

1 It was that time of year again! Time for slipping and sliding,

learning and laughing... a lot. Walt Whitman students enjoyed their annual ice skating trip to Bryant Park — They had a blast!

2 Dane Peters, our athletics supervisor and Boy’s club

facilitator, brought the Boy’s club to The African Burial Ground National Monument to learn about the history of this sacred space. Until 1794, both free and enslaved Africans were buried here in Lower Manhattan. Lost to history due to landfill and development, the grounds were rediscovered in 1991.

3 BCAL students enjoyed a trip to Columbia University, an

Ivy League University in the heart of the Big Apple. The students toured the campus and got a first hand account of what it’s like to attend the college from Julia, an Environmental Biology major in her junior year.

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Clockwise L to R, Skating at Bryant Park, Visiting to the African Burial Ground National Monument, Students visit Columbia University; L to R, top to bottom: Zenoa Winds, Leozard Simon, Robert Stevens, DJ Aikens, Tanya Thomas, Michael Awogbemi, Youri Duvert, Stanley Nicholas, Takia Sandy, Christiana Orji, Faradjine Thomas, Rose Pierre, Linda Muscadin, Emmanuel Ojo, Stacey Richard, Julia (tour guide)

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THE DINNER PARTY At Brooklyn MuseumBy Elie Mbys-Davidson New Utrecht H.S.

Our group of New Utrecht High School students went to the Brooklyn Museum with the intent of seeing The Dinner Party exhibit. I found that the Dinner Party exhibit is a powerful testimony to the contribution made by powerful women in history. I was impressed by the great amount of symbolism used in the decorating of the art. The entire dinner party holds greater meaning than seen at first glance and completely encompasses subtle definition in its beautiful details. Each plate symbolizes a particular woman who made a difference in the lives of others and in history.

The triangular shape of The Dinner Party symbolizes femininity, as well as the shapes defined on each plate. Each plate commemorates a woman and her various accomplishments. Below the plate and the table wrap is written the names of other famous women in history related to the particular piece chosen to be remembered. This special memorial brings dawn to a new age of art that forever immortalizes this group of women and is Judy Chicago’s very own contribution to an eternal feminist movement.

1 Former Erasmus Hall student and current college student,

Michael McDonald stopped by Erasmus and brought a slew of tasty and healthy treats from the Farmers Market to share with students.

Michael graduated from Youth and Community Development H.S. on the Erasmus Campus last June.

2 Our youth at Bushwick Cam-pus had a great time assisting

our volunteer immigration lawyers help community members fill out citizenship applications. We look forward to working with CUNY again!

3 The Rhinelander Children’s Center, NYC’s only free,

recreational weekend program for Deaf children and teens visited BCAL. Students were able to explore the college campus with the guidance of college service learners and interpreters. The teens were full of energy and were such a joy to be with, hopefully this won’t be their only visit to BCAL.

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L to R, clockwise. Michael McDonald visits Erasmus Campus, Immigration lawyers volunteering their time for Citizenship Day at Bushwick H.S. while Juan Garcia of Bushwick translates the forms for a community member. Teens from Rhinelander Children’s Center visit the Brooklyn College Arts Lab

Let Me Fly

Let me fly so far from worldly troubles,And sprout from the earth to the sky.

Free me from the earthquake’s rubble, And I’ll flee to days I’ll never know.

Let there be light upon the wronged.

And should night never reach its dawn,Then let us breathe the air for which we’ve always longed.

For the angels of the sun will make no more.

By Elie Mbys-Davidson New Utrecht H.S.

Mixed Media CollaborationI.S. 291

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New UtrechtHigh School

We are proud to announce that Mirka has been

accepted into Global Potential! Global Potential

provides urban youth from low-income communities

with skills and perspective that enable them to effect

positive change in their loves, communities and

global community through engagement in leadership

training, social entrepreneurship, international culture

exchange and service learning.

This summer Mirka will travel to the Dominican

Republic to do a social entrepreneurship project.

We will surely miss the presence of Loyalty BCAL. A Midwood student, Loyalty established herself as a member of the Black Jackets with her memorable song “You Don’t Know“.

She became a leader of Awake Center Project, leading a group of teens in learning meditation practice and raised money for that program. She’s written several poems and stories and has recently made a short documentary on Colorism.

Shiniqua is a leader. She is the Captain of the

cheerleading squad and Vice President of the Senior

class. She is also a natural born director and is great

with the camera. She is respected by her peers

because she respects everyone and helps everyone

out. Shiniqua’s most recent project, inspired by her

sister Shakaya, was the “Letters to Santa” drive.

During the holidays, Macy’s donates a dollar for every

letter written to Santa to the Make a Wish Foundation.

Shiniqua collected 2000 letters in two days, raising

$2000! That is better than most charity organizations.

Shiniqua has so much to offer and we are very proud of

all of her accomplishments!

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Mirka LoksvanaAccepted into Global Potential

Yvesnee “Loyalty“ JeanaiméAccepted to Howard University & St. Augustine’s College

Shiniqua Bailey2012 Rene Peñaloza Memorial Award Winner

Watch Me Shine

Ciara will be attending East Brooklyn Congregations (EBC) High School for Public Service-Bushwick in the fall. EBC was designed to offer students in a troubled neighborhood opportunities for community action. She’s extremely shy but a true star in the making. Besides her wonderful personality and kind heart she’s funny, smart, brave, peaceful and entertaining. Ciara is very caring and enjoys taking on the motherly role after school. She always brings ices, candy or food for all the students, and bakes a cake when it’s someone’s birthday. Ciara is one of our most ambitious students and wants to be a singer, dancer, musician, actress and nurse to take care of her family.

Juan is committed to his community. He will be

attending the LEAF (Leaders in Environmental Action

for the Future) Program in the summer.

LEAF provides paid summer internships for high school

students and helps educators from environmental high

schools share best practices and scientific resources.

Olga Sanchez is a rising star! In the past year, Olga had

split her time between working as an office assistant

in her school and attending our program. Olga is

determined to work in media and has worked diligently

with our teaching artist Alejandra Ugarte-Bedwell on

socially conscious media projects. Olga recently got a full

scholarship to The International Center of Photography’s

Teen Academy Program for summer, 2012.

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Ciara Olivencia8th grader IS 291

Juan GarciaJunior, The Academy of Environmental Leadership

Olga SanchezJunior, Bushwick School for Social Justice

Emi L. Augustin, Music Teaching Artist, Walt Whitman M.S.

When I come into work here at M.S. 246, I always leave amazed at what our students are capable of. This year is my first full year at Walt Whitman, and the things we were able to accomplish are nothing short of amazing! We made some great music, and we also were able to make videos with Ms. Arin and Ms. Jill to support the songs. We were able to give our students a taste of what it’s like to actually work and complete a project in its entirety. The students were always interested in the progress of their work, and it shows in the product that we have all worked on this year. In my time here, I’ve seen our young people find their voices, create groups, learn how to produce and record music and themselves. As an artist myself, I can truly say that having been here with my peers and students making magic happen is why I do what I do.

lights,

action!

camera,

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Maya’s in the HouseAward winning songstress visits BCCP + LiKWUiD Styles and Chris “Kazi“ Rolle

This year, our students have learned both job and college readiness skills, they have been challenged to rethink their approach to conflict,

to reach their goals academically and to give back to the community. They have also been encouraged and guided by our Teaching Artists to grow through the arts. To further support this artistic growth, the BCCP brought Grammy Award-winning artist, Maya Azucena on board to spend some time with our students at each site.

Some people are born with jaw-dropping talent, some born with a burning will to succeed, and some born with a spirit to help those in need. Then there is multiple award-winning singer Maya Azucena, a vocalist so richly talented that she’s brought audiences to their feet all over the world (Maya has performed in over 20 countries from Croatia to China!). Driven by an entrepreneur’s spirit, she’s released her own music and toured the planet, all on her own. And, Maya’s a

humanitarian who consistently uses these gifts to help make life better for those around her.

Rising from the streets of Brooklyn, her talent took her to the LaGuardia School of Performing Arts. Later she formed a band and started honing her performance skills all over the U.S. Maya’s 2nd show found her performing in front of 8,000 people in Brooklyn. Shortly thereafter, she released her debut CD “Maya Who?!”, independently selling it at shows and from her website. It was this direct connection with fans that led to much of her success and growth as a businesswoman.

Maya’s energy and enthusiasm for the arts is evident as she gives an inspirational talk on the music business and what it means to travel the world as a Cultural Ambassador. She sang songs from her new album “Cry Love” and, in addition showed the new music video for the title track. We are all inspired as she sings from her heart while encouraging us all to pursue our dreams.

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This is my community, one big family/ Many different faces, many different

races/ But they all represent the makings of me/ East Flatbush is the

place to be!

Excerpt from “My Community - Flatbush Fire” pg. 46

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M.S. 246Walt Whitman Middle School

Chris Rolle, also known as “Kazi” visited Brooklyn College Arts Lab

to speak to students about believing in themselves to do

whatever it is they desire to do with their lives.

He was born in Nassau, Bahamas and spent many years in foster homes, orphanages and reform schools. As a teenager he was

involved with gangs and began selling drugs and

committing petty crimes which ultimately landed him in

jail. It was then that he decided to turn his life around.

Kazi now spends his time traveling nationally and internationally, motivating and inspiring audiences through lectures, workshops, and live performances. He is the author of the youth focused self-help book “All Things Are Possible“ and his inspiring life story is the focus of a feature-length documentary film, “The Hip Hop Project“; executive produced by Bruce Willis and Queen Latifah.

Faybeo’n LaShanna A. Mickens, also known as LiKWUiD Styles was born in Columbia, SC and developed into an independent hip hop standout performing artist and freestyler in New York City.

Described as a hip hop fusion or soul-hop artist, LiKWUiD has performed throughout the east coast with artist such as Slick Rick, 9th Wonder, Lyfe Jennings, Jazmine Sullivan, Talib Kweli, Frankie Beverly and Maze, Bow Wow, Rah Digga, Umar Bin Hassan (The Last Poets), Jesse Boykins, III and world renowned comedian Cedric the Entertainer.

LiKWUiD, who holds a Master of Business Administration degree spoke to our students about following their dreams to become Hip Hop artists, but also about how important a college education in order to pursue those very same dreams.

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LiKWUiD StylesHip Hop Artist

Chris “Kazi“ RolleArtist, Speaker, Social Entrepreneur

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BCAL, Bushwick, New Utrecht and Jefferson visited Occupy Wall Street in 2011. It gave our students the opportunity to see people from all communities coming together to fight against corporate greed and

oppression of the poor and working class.

OccupyWall Street

Oppression

Oppression Is....Oppression is the homeless man sitting on the corner with a sign that reads “I’m hungry, please help me”.

Oppression is a young girl, crying because she is pregnant and she had no way of taking care of her child and is not forced to drop out of school.

Oppression is a woman getting beaten by her husband because she is too sick to go to work.Oppression is a person not being hired because of their race.Oppression is a woman being paid less than a man.

The problem…The problem is that the youth could care less about what’s happening around them and all they want to do is party, smoke, drink and disobey. They have no interest in their education. Businessmen and women only care about making money and not about what’s really

important; the environment and the well being of animals and humans.

Here’s how you change it.Youth, education is important. You need it. End of story, so stay focused on your education because marijuana, alcohol, parties, and being disobedient should not be priority.Young women, a child should not be priority, your education should be.

Young men; girls and booty calls can wait. Women would fall right into your arms if you have a good job and a nice car, but the only way you can get there is with a good education.

Parents, steer your child in the right direction because if you don’t then it will backfire on you. If they get in trouble with the law and get arrested then you will have to bail them out of jail, if they get pregnant then you will have to help them take care of the baby and if they get stuck with a bad record after dropping out of school, you will have to

take care of them.

Teachers, do your job and try to help your student understand what you are trying to teach, don’t just give up because they need your help to succeed.

Gang Members, what are you doing with your lives? You could do so much more for your family and your community, instead of getting yourself caught up on a color and a sign.

There are many ways the world could change for the better, but who’s willing to make a change and allow it to happen? Not very many people would and it’s a shame. What will it take for people to realize that the way things are going right now will be the death of this world?

By Sashagai Malcolm Bushwick H.S.

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Jesus AvilesBushwick H.S.

Oppression is...

Oppression is a person of color dropping out of school because they think it’s boring. Oppression is a young teenager having a baby. Oppression is a women getting beaten up by men. Oppression is a poor person going to jail because he robs a store just to eat. Oppression is a person of color getting paid less money.

The Problem…The problem is today teenagers find school to be boring because the teachers do not know how to teach the students the way they should be taught so the students feel like they are coming to school for no reason because they are not learning anything.

Young teenagers need to get their education because of many different reasons so they can make it far in life. One reason is because without a right education and also without your high school diploma it is hard for you to go to college. The reason

for why it is hard for you to go to college is because colleges look to see if you have your high school diploma and they also look at your grade point average so if you don’t go to school you won’t get your diploma and also you wont have a good or high grade point average.

Without going to college chances are you probably would have a minimum wage job and have to rely on family and friends to help you pay your bills. People should also go to school so they can have a good education so it can prepare you for the world.

Even though some teenagers find school to be boring because the teachers are not teaching the student the right way or because the students feel like they are criminals because they have to get scanned everyday just to come in the school to learn.

Even though all these thing happen you should still go to school because so you can have a higher education so you can have better opportunities for

yourself in the future.

By Dashawn SmithBushwick H.S.

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By Dejean Aiken BCAL

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I AM...

I am peaceful and loving.I wonder what life would be like.

I hear the birds sing.I see a land of peace.

I want a world with no hate.I am peaceful and loving.

I pretend that I don’t care. I feel love in my heart.

I touch the sight of everlasting life.I worry when the hate is going to stop.

I cry to see another youth down.I am peaceful and loving.

I understand life is short.I say we should take our time.I dream for a better tomorrow.

I try fighting for love and peace.I hope for a world of freedom and love.

I am peaceful and loving.

By Alissica ChristiePaul Robeson H.S.

By Dejean Aiken BCAL

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Paul RobesonHigh School

Photos taken by Olga Sanchez

Bushwick School for Social Justice

Development Relief Education for Alien Minors Act

On March 20, 2012, Bushwick Students traveled to City Hall to have their voices heard and lend their support to passing the NY DREAM ACT. Our students filmed and photographed the press conference under the supervision of our wonderful teaching artist Alejandra Ugarte-Bedwell. BSSJ Student, Olga

Sanchez photographed most of the event.

Education Equity for DREAMers would allow undocumented students to apply for college tuition grants up to as much as $5,000 a year.

Passing The NY DREAM ACT

Visit www.brooklyndreamact.wordpress.com for more information.26

Thoughts on Trayvon MartinErasmus Hall Campus

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“If I had a son he would look like

Trayvon.”

– Barack Obama

Stereotypes play a big part!

Racism is still alive!

Justice shall be served!

Violence is still occurring!

Dispatcher: Did you see what he was wearing?

Zimmerman: Yeah, a dark hoodie… He’s got his hands in his waist band. And he’s a black male. This guy looks like he’s up to no good or he’s on drugs or something.

Racism and racial profiling.Violence is NOT the way!

Dispatcher: Are you following him?

Zimmerman: YeahDispatcher: OK. You don’t need you to do that.

Refusing to follow instructions.InsubordinationIt could be anyone of us.

If Zimmerman was black, do you think things would be looked at differently?

Food for thought.

Ashley Bibby

The color black…It means darkness butThe color white…It means light.Blacks have been enslaved.Whites have been our slave masters.

But that color black, it found a little white in its color…A white shot a black and got away.Never give up until you pull your ace.

Jerome Barrett

If that were me…Laying down with blood and skittles everywhere.If that were meI would have my hoodie on because I live in fear.If that were meThe juice of racism will spread to Florida.If that were me…

Lateef Wearrien

The land of the freeYet I am not free in my own clothes.I’m not free in my own skin.I die because you think.Your thoughts incriminate me before you even hear my voice.What about you?Why must your skin make your punishment any less for taking my life?

Nickeshia Rumble

I was shot for being black.How messed up is that?I did nothing wrong.What kind a crap is that?He shot me, took my life without a care in the world.He stood over my dead body.He watched as I died.If I were white, I wouldn’t have died.That racist pig killed me.He took my life, for wearing a hoodie! A stupid hoodie!Eating skittles, drinking…Arizona…I actually saw the rainbow.

Joy-Anne George and Jessica Drummonds

Walking down the street, just a bag of Skittles and an Arizona, going home. It’s raining and nothing’s happening. Then bam! A black 17 year-old was shot. White man thought he was suspicious, but in reality, he was not. A young black dies, a murderer tries to make it seem he’s not telling lies. What if he is? What if he isn’t? Shooting a black kid…that is not innocent. Why? Just because. Why did you shoot this black person? Just because… Why did you torture this black man? Just because… Why did you attack this elderly black woman? Just because… Just because what?! For years, the white man has escaped punishment For torturing, murdering, slapping, beating, and abusing in all kinds of manners against almost every black nation through identification and segregation and communication across the nation. Why do we do nothing but sit in frustration when we should receive justice and justify ourselves through the process of justification. Just because…

Emmanuel Fortin

UntitledBy Elie Mbys-Davidson New Utrecht H.S.

Sometimes eternal moonlight’s shawl shines above a smooth horizon.

And when the light finds itself a landing, is when the dawn arouses.

Those times life sprinkles color across a sea which darkness lies in.

Those times mercy gives us leave to the black despair that midnight houses.

It came to be that upon the dawn of day, I donned a star. And made a wish upon the star, to dream to love it from afar.

And as the light shines bright, I saw my wish come true that I may be at peace in eternal days with you.

Yet I’m like a puddle that feeds a dead tree, I am the chain that doesn’t ever lock.

Like a pond that has no fish, I am the grass that grows under a rock.

Yet she, ever so slowly, always so gentle, never more kind. Have I ever met a person to ease my emotion, and bring peace to my mind?

She is the blood of dawn, the light of day, the twilight’s song.

The only truth, now far away, the lovingly loyal loss for whom I long.

Why cry if I die, when the ire burns in anguish.Tears and tribulation never tire, but forever

languish.

Dear lord that struck my heart with cupid’s bowAnd let a fire in the dark then glow.

And the flame that burns and sears now penetrates my soul.Amidst the smoke, I’m merely left with ashes and some coal.

Oh, Beauty of the wind that glimmered into night. Oh, Glory of the day, why have you left me with no light.

On, Magnanimity of love, how could you have fled? Abandon me in fog, vacant in the shadows of the life that now lies dead.

Glimpse into the abyss of a life that has no fear.There where the sun will always set upon the dawn of day.

There where life is not but one long tear and the star that shone so bright, will forever fall away.

Student Art at the BCCP

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Jesus AvilesBushwick H.S.

Devonte DudleyBushwick H.S.

Art by Davonte DudleyBushwick H.S.

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Bushwick CampusHigh School

Mystery HeartMystery heart is a heart with no name

Rich, poor or fame? No one knowsYour mystery heart can be anything

With a certain question mark(?).

The key to a mystery heart Is to find out a riddle

Without peeking in the middle.

The world, it’s like a mystery heartYou just have to find out on our own.

By Ashley ScurryBushwick H.S.

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Random Characters By Jesus Aviles Bushwick H.S.

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i am

I am intelligent and friendly.

I wonder why they bully people.I hear their cries and lamentation rise to the skies those that lost lives in 9.11.I want to be successful.I am intelligent and friendly.

I pretend to be something I’m not.I feel everything is going to be wonderful.I touch the sky.I worry about losing someone special like the people who lost loved ones in 9/11.I cry when I see a sad movie.I am intelligent and friendly.

I understand everything that I want to be.I say everyone can realize dreams.I dream about living a supernatural life.I try to fly in the sky.I hope that I can make it through.I am intelligent and friendly.

SiSi ChenThomas Jefferson H.S.

I am myself and nobody can take it

away.

I am Aysha.

I hear I am a best friend.

I see that I have a special gift.

I am myself and nobody can take it away.

I am a young lady that knows how to carry herself.

I am a star and not a fan.

I am a singer.

I am a loving a person.


I am a fighter.

I am the light in this world.

I am realest person you will ever meet.

I am a piece of art.


Aysha Galarza

Thomas Jefferson H.S.

I am unique.

I am outspoken.I am judgmental but only a few times.I am honest.I am special.

I am a Guyanese girl that is very loving.I am funny.I am kind.I am crazy, but only sometimes.I am loud.

I am intelligent. I am a future doctor in 2012.I am Angelique. I am pretty.I am no one else but me.

D’Avilar AngeliqueThomas Jefferson H.S.

I am sweet and mean.

I wonder why I am shy.

I hear the happy laughter.

I want to be forgiving.


I pretend to be aggressive.

I feel everything is going to be an adventure.

I touch my dreams.

I worry about being a giver.


Michelle Boisereau

Thomas Jefferson H.S.

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I am intellectual and inspirational.I wonder what college life would be like. I hear the sound of trees dancing by a swish of the wind.I see nothing but those who are before me.I want to be happy and successful throughout life.I am intellectual and inspirational.

I pretend to be afraid to face the world but I am not.I feel weak but deep down inside I am strong.I touch the roses when they bloom to see the life of nature.I worry sometimes when I feel nothing but hopelessness.I cry when I lost something that is so dear to me like loved ones.I am intellectual and inspirational.

I understand that I am smart and kind.I say nothing but to motivate others and be a role model.I dream to be successful.I try so hard even when I am hopeless and down.I hope to succeed throughout my own dream.I am intellectual and inspirational

By Enrisha WattPaul Robeson H.S.

I am strong.I wonder when will the world end.I hear the whistle blow.I see the world changing.I want to explore.I am strong and confident.

I pretend to fly like a bird.I feel the cold wind pushing me.I touch the bright blue sky. I worry that I might fall.I cry when someone dies.I am strong and confident.

I understand life isn’t easy.I say never give up.I dream to succeed in pursuing my dreams.I try to keep my head up.I hope to achieve in life.I am strong and confident.

By Tamar JulesPaul Robeson H.S.

Ericka SanchezBushwick H.S.

BushwickPhoto Project

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Ashley Scurry

Olga Sanchez

Juan Garcia

Dashawn Smith

Ericka Sanchez

Listen to these words that are coming thru my mouth

I open up the door, now I’m letting them out

I’ve waited too long to get to this place

Excert from “Reality (No Strife)“ pg. 48

MISCONCEPTIONBy: Nickeshia RumbleErasmus Hall H.S. Each morning it’s the same thing. No one says hello; they all say goodbye.

This is why I don’t smile anymore and why my happiness no longer shows.

The clouds come and drown me out and I no longer know if I will be recognized.

Rising, emerging from the distance, to make them all know a new day has come.

Slowly, but surely, my daily routine begins.

No change, no transformation, no great revolution that I will initiate through my

unappreciated presence…

Just the same old thing.

Maybe I should go back and lie down, disappear behind my sheets and let the rain come and take my place.

I just want someone to say, “Thank you for coming out, brightening up my day in the way that only you can. Thank you.”

But no, never do I get that. I tried to retreat, but got stuck in the middle of the sky.

I couldn’t go back to hide my pain, and I couldn’t rise to give them light. I was there, trapped to witness the joys of a happy world with no one noticing me at all.

“

“

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Erasmus HallHigh School

Then he arrived. That smug look on his face made me sick. He was so happy, calm as if nothing was happening out of the ordinary.

He noticed me, of course, but never could he acknowledge me. We looked at each other; I was angry and he was elated. He played his guitar, but no sounds came from his mouth.

At least say thank you, you smug little man, but nothing. We were disconnected from the rest of the world, our voices finding no connections.

What will he do next? I was ready to go now, tired of his stupid little games. He turned his guitar around, holding it in an odd way. Was he going to play it like this? But how?

Intrigued, I sat back, stroking my golden beard. Left! Right! Left Diagonal! Right Diagonal!

Taken away watching the briskness of his step pulling the guitar in the sand, I thought of him differently; still annoyed with his smug previous actions, but finding him interesting in the aftermath.

He was done, and called my attention waving his guitar in the air like a mad man. “Thank you Mr. Guy in the sky. Signed Silence.”

The words of his masterpiece; I was no longer stuck and as the tears welled up in my eyes, I knew I could go back and wake up again knowing that I am appreciated.

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Mystery HeartBy Ashley Scurry, Bushwick H.S.

Mystery heart is a heart with no nameRich, poor or fame? No one knowsYour mystery heart can be anythingWith a certain question mark(?).

The key to a mystery heart Is to find out a riddle Without peeking in the middle.

The world, it’s like a mystery heartYou just have to find out on our own.

ForeverBy Tashany Moreno Bushwick H.S.

Living off of the past.All these brutal memories will always last.I live a life with scars on my skin.If I was to choose life I would never pick.The stories of our lives will never go away.But what I experienced will never fade.Always and forever!

MyselfBy Tashany Moreno Bushwick H.S.

The rising of the powerful wind blows across my face.My steady walk is at real slow pace.Tomorrow is a another day to rejuvenate your soul.My heart is broken from the feelings you stole.I smile, I stare & I speak. I search I find my dreams to seek.Learning from all the struggle.Tell me one more time that I’m not in trouble.Sorry I looked back,I never want to see my past.Time flies but truth’s stay is way too long.As Drake said, “I’m so far gone”.

UntitledBy Dana Frasier Bushwick H.S.

“Damien has a secret that you shouldn’t know about! You can’t trust a guy like him!” Thomas screamed. “Why can’t you just accept the fact that I do trust him and I love him”, I said. Thomas sighed, “Look, I’m through fighting with you. Go ahead and do what you want. Just don’t come back to me and

ask me for my help”, Thomas said and with that the conversation was over. This all started a month ago when I first met Damien. He has the most beautiful face I had ever seen. Tan skin, hazel eyes, perfect white, gorgeous lips. His hair was curly when he didn’t cut it but it was adorable anyway. It was his attire that grabbed my attention. He had a thing for wearing black. He wore a black v-neck shirt with a leather jacket, black jeans and black boots. When he first came to John Jay High School, all eyes were on him when he pulled up in his black Ducati motorcycle. It was my friend Melanie that spotted him first. “Damn Tiff, look at him,” Mel said. Once I looked up, I couldn’t look away. He was just too beautiful. My mouth hung open for a moment when I was trapped in his world of absolute gorgeousness. “Hello! Earth to Tiffany!” Mel was snapping me out of this trance. “Huh? What’s up?”, I said with a smile sneaking up on my face. “You are so out of this world! You better be careful, he has to walk by first before you can start drooling” she said with a chuckle. “Shut up. He’s coming. Quick, act natural,” I said with panic. As he walked past me, I caught a whiff of his cologne, I think it was Spark by Nick Morrison. I started after as he walked to his locker. “Tiff, let’s go the bell’s about to ring.” Mel said. We walked to our locker when I stopped cold. I noticed the new kid was standing right next to my locker. “Mel, I can’t go over there,” I whispered pulling her back. “Why not? It’s not like he’s a demon or something. Just relax” she responded. We walked to my locker and Mel went around the corner to hers. “Hello. I’m Damien. What is your name”? His voice sounded foreign, but it was beautiful. “Hi. My name is Tiffany but I go by Tiff. What grade are you in”? I asked him hoping he wouldn’t say 10th. “Tenth grade. I have Mr. Simon first, I think” Damien answered in his beautiful voice. The bell interrupted our conversation and we walked to class. I kept looking into his eyes, searching for something but, the more I looked into his eyes the more I got lost in them and the more I felt like I was swimming in a lake of sticky caramel.

39

As we entered the class, everyone looked at us with a mixture of jealousy and shock. I walked past the stares as an awkward feeling crept up inside me. “Why is it so shocking to see me talking to a guy? It’s not like we were dating.” I thought. “Okay class. Getting back to the PSAT. You need to know how to pass this if you want a good chance of passing the SAT’s…” .Mr. Simon’s voice tuned out of my head as I read the note that Damien passed to me “Why did everyone stare at you as we walked in?”“I don’t know. They always feel that if I’m talking to a guy out of my league that I’m dating him,” I wrote. I slipped it back to him. I found it odd that every seat was taken but the one next to me. I was seated in the back row with other kids, but they were in their own world. The next note said: “Well, they might be looking at you for a while because I’ve chosen you to be my tour guide. I want you to show me all over the school. I don’t think I would last a second in these halls all alone”. I smiled at his note and looked beside me. You know there’s no way I can show you the whole school in 3 minutes. But, I can show you in one period. Meet me at my locker after the bell”. I whispered after leaning towards him. A smile was on his face after I pulled away. He looked at me and winked. Class rolled on and when the bell rang, I was the last one out. I wanted him to wait so I took my time, unaware the bell for third period was about to sound. I rushed to my locker and there he was the hottest guy in school, standing in front of my locker with an angry face. “Why so glum, chum?”, I asked with a frown on my face. “I have been here waiting for you for a whole five minutes! Where have you been?” Damien answered in an angry tone.“So you’re telling me you couldn’t wait five minutes? I took that long because Mr. Simon wanted to talk to me about my grades,” I lied. “Really? Your grades? Please, you’re a straight A student. Why would Mr. Simon want to talk to you about grades”? He was laughing at this point and I was beginning to get aggravated. “Can we go now?”, I asked, cutting his laughter short. “Yeah, sure. Where are you taking me first”?“The cafeteria” I responded. We walked down the east corridor and down two flights of stairs. “I hope you remember the way but if you don’t just follow the other students,” I explained. “Well, I don’t have a problem…”.To be continued.

Things Aren’t WhatThey’re Supposed To BeBy Devonte Springer Erasmus Hall H.S.

Things aren’t what they’re supposed to be.Said you like me; but it wasn’t truthfully.Hyping up my self esteem.3 weeks?That was a dream to me.But I mean…I guess,No stressPain is a trick, but I’m on to the next.Change the page, diff erent chapter.I’m an actor, so I behaved like it reallyDidn’t matter.Not gonna lie, it hit me after.But it’s whatever, my life’s already aDamned disaster.At least I did one thing; I’m the ONLY oneThat kept you smiling.Ain’t that a shame that you threw it away.But hey!This is a poem freeing myself.No having any emotion; I’m just being myself.

UntitledBy Chardonnay Hudson, BCAL

Church. Not the one singing and shouting. The Ave, where you get shot up. Watch your back. You may seem safe, but when the grass is cut Low, the snakes start to show. Trust none just look around and observe what You see. Be alert after dark. You never know what lurks around after dark. Busy streets mixy feets. You never know what to expect. Just be ready for the worst and pray for the best. In this life nothing is promised. Just death.

Art by Damien FordI/S/ 291

OpportunityIt’s like I’m trapped inside my mind

But it’s hard to see when I’m nearly blindTo do me is all I really wanted

But instead I’m forever taunted

To live my life freelyIs a very big opportunity

It’s hard to choose who you want to beSo that opportunity fades away mysteriously

At least I can wake up the next dayWithout screaming and yelling all the way

Life is hard, yes I admit itBut it gets easier when you get to the finish

By Ciara Olivencia I.S. 291

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I.S. 291Roland Hayes Middle School

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Alahnie Do BetterBy Alahnie Bailey BCAL

Alahnie do better, do better, do better!

I will, I will,After I pop this bean at the end of this bottle.I mean we all have dreams, but I’ll never be skinny Enough to be a model.Aren’t we all just like everyone else searching for love?Then my great intentions are curved by some Jack-*** I think I’m not pretty enough to deserve.But tell me once, just one time that I’m gorgeous And for a moment, for a split second I’ll believe I’m Flawless.What happens when I don’t feel like that anymore?What happens when my feelings aren’t there?You’ll be the same one I “love” sitting next to the One that’s prettier.The one with long hair.But I guess it was all fake. I was Barbie and you were Ken.I though I was happy in the beginning but in the End, That same bottle was the one I could turn to. That was my “boyfriend”.And those same people that said I can do better Turned into letters.Letters that meant nothing until I stepped back and Saw the big picture.So when you are worrying about if he’s a good Kisser, your life is dripping away.Slipping through your fingers.Then when its too late you’ll be thinking of what You should have, would have, could have done.If it wasn’t for stage number oneAll that lateness could have been greatness.And all the time I wasted could be bad memories Erased from my mind.How can I think of all the bad times when I’m on my Grind?I would have all the confidence in the world to tell Those people that said I was easily broken,That they are sadly mistaken.For all those who think I can’t reach that level; I’m coming.Things change and people do too. I’m a strong black girl now and in a few years I’ll be A strong black woman.I heard loudly the ones who said I couldn’t.Turned my back to those who said I could.They tell me that I’m crazy but I know for sure I’m misunderstood.For all those who are waiting for Alahnie to make them proud,I’ll say it loud so that the negativity can hear me.I throw out the window everything that scares meI know my memory isn’t great.

But forget? I could never;All the voices that said Alahnie you CAN do better!

EternityBy Michael Awogbemi BCAL

When you are six feet under the ground,Only god knows where you are bound.Without a smile without a frown.Looking up and not down.Remembering your life scenes.Your eternal journey begins!You get to the gate,Therein lies thy eternal fate.Getting to the seat of judgment,Waiting for thy procurement.You get eternal torment!You start complaining,The judge is ignoring.You start blaspheming,Angels hold you, but constrainingHe says “ain’t it a shame”?“I can’t find thy name”.All the same, you shall live in the place of tame.Worse than that of Notre Dame!”You then begin to cry, asking yourself why,But discovering you cant lie.You have no option but to die!!Then you start pleading,But it falls on deaf ears.Tis just the beginning of your eternal tears.Then you start thinking of your endless years.Then comes an angel as scary as ever.Indeed, you can tell you are finished forever!!!Tell me, dear friend, sincerely Are your ready for eternity?

Child Of The RainBy Elie Mbys-Davidson New Utrecht H.S.

I, child of the pouring rain;Whose misery was born but lost in pain.Yet was found and tossed in vain.Am now to dwell in a land among the sane. I, Father of the mud that never driesAm gifted with the power to mask honesty with lies.Now I’m locked in chains that are all but insincere.And I cringe and cower, paralyzed in fear.

I, child of the rain that isn’t mine,Cry, when the somber skies let sorrow shine.So let my weep be heard in the darkest cry.And let my truth be found where the darkest lie.

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UntitledBy Widzar Weche BCAL

She use to get beatings ‘causeShe’s a spitting image of her mother.Run away at night cuz she love her like no Other.She hide her scars with a lie ‘cause her dad Convince her what she’s doing is right.

She was taught to be cold hearted;Her thought was the only thing she ever bought.Mistake is never an option ‘cause she hates her dad’s reaction.

She hates being alone.Deep down she knows her angel is long gone.That’s why no one could ever take away her spotlight.

She spit it like it was her last night;Her life is full of misery.That’s why she ended up being a luxury;She gave all of them something to hate on.

Who dares to challenge her is a moron,What you doing now.It’s been there, done that for now;Her dream was her happiness.Even though her life was madness.

Story of her life,It’s like cutting your skin with a knife.Don’t be surprise if it’s by your wife,Life can be surprising.

Life lesson; things happen for a reason.Your past is nothing but a picture that’s Fading away.When you think of it, it pissed you off right away.You got to be thankful for the past.Because that wasn’t your last.

Just for You, NikkiBy Lateef Ross-Wearrien Erasmus Hall H.S.

I live in this mystical space between Being your friend and being your lover. In this place my mind is lost.I am scared to be your lover ’cause of what you told me,That all the boys you’ve dated, you never really liked.But wait, you told me that you like me.So if we date, does that mean you will eventually hate me too?

The past six weeks we spent together talking, laughing,It was more than a summer fling to me.I am so inspired by your intelligence.I remember one night struggling on my final paper.I felt like giving up,Throwing all the pages in the garbage.But at 10:37 I heard a knock, knock, And my whole night changed.

Every time you smile, my cheeks turn Now-and-Later purple.I don’t know how you can eat so much candyAnd still have such a beautiful smile,Proving so many dentists wrong.You said you fantasize about jumping Into a pool of Snickers, Skittles, and Starbursts.So go ahead.Jump.I will be your lifesaver.

Thomas Jefferson Campus High School

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I AM...By Alison Duverge Thomas Jefferson H.S.

I am Dominican.I wonder why life is short.I hear my spirit laughing.I want to feel my success.

I am Dominican.

I pretend to be shy. I feel that it is important to be yourself.

I touch my tears when I cry.I worry about the world.

I am Dominican.

I understand that I am who I am and no one can change me.I say that good things come to those who wait.

I dream peace will fill the Earth one day.I try to be not disrespectful.

I hope to build a house in the Dominican Republic.I am Dominican.

Bushwick State of MindBy Keyshawn Lawson & Willie Conner I.S. 291

I walk down the streets as I meet and greet/ in the neighbor hood lots of kids are playing/ some of them up to no good/ Both eyes open as I walk down the “L” train line/ I’m in a Bushwick state of mind.

Bushwick is here where I’m from/ L Train hop if your dumb/ I am the master of Bushwick/ You might wanna think twice before you flip/ Little kids wanna hang out in the park stealin’ and dealin’/ I don’t touch none of dat cuz I’m not like them/ I’m real, I’m real cuz I don’t steal/ I originate from Bushwick.

Electric FlameBy Lashauna Hill I.S. 291

I am here now/ I wanna know my electric flame/ When your not around/I just want to call your name/ I can feel the pressure/ Running through my brain/I am here now/ And I want to know my electric flame.

My Community:Flatbush FireBy Walt Whitman M.S. Music CrewVerses (Andrew, Malik and Klarissa)Chorus (Chantelle and Tamia)Music (Emi L. Augustin)

This is my community, one big family/ Many different faces, many different races/ But they all represent the makings of me/ East Flatbush is the place to be!

I represent the east and we like nice things/ We like our life…and what it brings/ As for me, I was born in the county of Kings/ Brooklyn…we go hard on everything.

Haiti, Trini, D.R., Jamaica, St. Vincent, P.R., Barbados, Grenada/ That’s who we are and what we represent/ East Flatbush Brooklyn Residents!


This is my community, one big family/Many different faces, many different races/ But they all represent the makings of me/ East Flatbush is the place to be!

Get it straight from the past/ I could just bring it back/ My flow too fast, finish first never last/ East Flatbush is the place to be/ Not ready for my swag, just wait and see.

Flatbush ever last, giving me greatness from the past/ Get it now… get it fast/ Know the truth…know the task/ Let the world in my mind create the focus for my rhymes/ Using the swag to rep my time, if you dope then get in line (oohhh).



46

By Ericka SanchezBushwick H/S/`

Mixed Media Yarn ArtWalt Whitman M.S.

47

Reality (No Strife)Written by the Erasmus Hall Project Peace Class with vocals from Maya Azucena (background vocals, Devonte Springer) and Music from Roberto Poveda

Chorus (created by whole class with Maya Azucena and Roberto Poveda)

The reality is (2x)Frustration, betrayalThe reality is (2x)We work so hard, to get this farWe need more respect forLove life motherhoodNo strife ee-ii-ee-ii…

Verse 1 (written by Lauren Washington, Joy-Ann George, Nickeisha Rumble, and Devonte Springer)

Listen to these words that are coming thru my mouthI open up the door, now I’m letting them outI’ve waited too long to get to this placeI’m filled with frustration, every time I see your face.

Verse 2 (written by Jerome Barrett)

Memories that play like a film without soundAll I can see is static and cloudsBroken mirrors of dreamsWondering when will I be a perfectMirror mirror on the wall(never know) you were my greatest fall.

Chorus

Rap (written by Lateef Wearrien and Devonte Springer)

Yo, I met this chickenheadShe said she’d never betray meBut then I found out she was only playing

meBut you know that I know I won’tLet it phase meBut thanks for the truthCuz that girl was crazy!

Bridge (written by Tyquail Sykes, Diandra Lewis, Trayvont York, Leon Kingston)

Now I know that I can no longer trust youI though that what we had was trueYou caught me in my weakest hourBut now you loseYou thought I lost my strength butI refuse to!

Chorus

Outro: No more strife! (repeat)

Kara Walker Inspired SilhouettesWalt Whitman M.S.

48

We Have To FightWritten by Catisha Brown, Melody Achille, Jermaine Forrest and Yasir Eliassaint of Paul Robeson H.S. with Maya Azucena and Music by Roberto Poveda

It’s so unfortunate how life can end.Especially in the time where libertyseems dead.The pain and horror these humans hadto endureAnd to be buried where they were lured.

False promises, for freedom they had tofight, they had to fight(there were)false promises, (but) forfreedom we have to fight, we have tofight, we have to fight, we have to fight.

The hatred and sorrow risking our livesJust walking down the street you see me,stereotypeYou don’t trust me but what did I doI don’t deserve this kind of treatmentfrom you.You stopped me dead in my tracksAnother life fades to black.

We have to fight, we have to fight, We have to fight, we have to fight RAPMeme si vous etre malheureuxIl faut etre courageuxDans la vie il ne faut pas peurJesus christ est notre protecteurAvec lui nous serons vainqeurEt nous ferrons beaucoup d espoirChantons et crions la victoire carChrist est le rois.

Forget we have to fight, I have tofight for my rights Walking down the block trying not to have a fightPolice picking on us cause they need to get

a lifeThat’s why we angry cuz wetired of this lifeI think the only peace we get is when we close our eyesOr maybe end our livesBut all I know is I’mma be a star up in the sky hahaha!You thought I died I’m laughing whileyou cry!

False promises, for freedom they had tofight, they had to fight(there were)false promises, (but) forfreedom we have to fight, we have tofight, we have to fight, we have to fight.

Kara Walker Inspired SilhouettesWalt Whitman M.S.

49

50

Untitled By Armando Mack, BCAL

I drop bars you can call me a walking prison/ A prism with the lines that lock you up from your decisions/ I’m risin’ against them thoughts that provoke my true intentions/ My intellect is affecting what my mind is expecting/

From me, I do believe i can spit something secular/ But why bother, when the people are lacking the creator/ So I’m furiously forcing his love towards them/ But they react back like I’m pushing some form of terrorism.

And i see them repelling/ From me, i thought i was excelling/ At this, but i found out that my lyrics ain’t compelling/ Well I’m sorry that i don’t match your rapping criteria/ I thought this worlds gonna change, well I’m seeing things, schizophrenia.

Try to keep a smile while I’m walking in this world/ But why is the world driven away from the word/ Called “Peace”, that thing that everyone deserve/ But someway, somehow, we feel better with a curse.

*Wait* Why’s there many holes in the politicians words/ Its like the real ain’t a priority, so the lies comes first/ They said they’ll renovate, I’m not surprise they can’t/ They made a demon that so happens to not be a saint.

And that’s the irony/ They made the streets the way they are, new form of tyranny/ And we are gonna pay for it, but at least give us our warranty/ And a warrant for your arrest, for the lack of morality.

Apparently we have a corrupted authority/ They are trying to protect us but they do it horribly/ Oblivious the fact that the govt. is our adversary/ Well i know, that they know, that they’re the enemy.

And surprisingly, they leave us with no food to eat/ People doing whatever in this world just to make ends meet/ So they are pushing drugs moving work with the heat/ All cuz the government brought

drugs to the streets.

Now peep, do you see the world changing good?/ Nah, so why not stand up and change for your hood?/ I think you should, i know you could, i recommend that/ Cuz with just a couple of my songs will never change that.

We been like some cigarettes, smoked to the bud/ Then was tossed outside, just laying in the mud/ Sacrificed in war, to please your deity/ No care for the soldiers, you just send them down to Hades.

And i think she hates me/ I have been talking bout her/ And telling the people, to avoid being around her lately/ So let her forever be lonely.

What does it take for you to be in the situation so you can fathom?/ Yea, so let me put you in a predicament that you cant imagine.

Let’s say you was in a middle class family with minimum job and go there in a timely fashion/ ‘Til one day your parents got laid off, now your working overtime/ Your hours are getting hectic, but sure enough you’ll settle fine.

But your not making ends meet, so homie what you doing now?/ Parents ain’t getting employed they ain’t qualified for jobs that are open now/ The jobs that are open require a master degree/ And the loans will never be paid, so how’s the family getting money?/

So you get another job, and now you hardly sleep/ Never rest for a couple of “Z’s”, but finally make ends meet/ You drop out of school, cuz those jobs you gotta keep/ And when you think this blows over you can get back on your feet.

To getting a GED, but nothing in this world is free/ So you’re now underground, hands dirty in the streets/ Met a couple of cool people that so happens to smoke weed/ You noticed the business in it so you start selling trees.

Video ClubI.S. 291

Mixed Media CollageWalt Whitman M.S.

51

This starts to be hobby, but then became a job/ Full time selling pot, stay chilling with a mob/ Of dudes with bad morals, man what did your mama teach you?/ To never drop out, and not to be chilling with those people.

Now if i told you that too, you would say that I’m a hater/ And that I’m jealous of you, because your the one getting paper/ But time flies by and now you’re doing time/ SSI and Food Stamps will get only so far in life.

Family is back in poverty, you can say you did it twice/ Cuz when you go to jail, everybody pays the price/ Sad to say, but when you got out one day/ Went to your house to find out that your parents passed away.

As corrupted as society is you start doing drugs again/ Everyday just to smoke away the pain/ Now if you were sensitive you would of committed suicide/ And if your not, you’ll be rolling up a blunt everyday at 5/ Now I’m sorry if this is getting to hypothetical/ But this is real life, you gotta start thinking critical.

FundersThe After School CorporationBrooklyn CollegeCUNY Vice Chancellor for Academic AffairsBrooklyn Community FoundationNew York City Department of Youth & Community DevelopmentNew York State Education DepartmentNew York State Higher Education Services CorporationBrooklyn College Department of PsychologyTranscanada FoundationThe United WayThe William T. Grant Foundation

2012 Project Peace JournalProduced by: Winton WedderburnClarisa JamesMichael Awogbemi, BCAL

Front Cover:Ericka Sanchez Bushwick, H.S.

Back Cover:Aaliyah Mandelley, New Utrecht H.S.

See the Journal online at http://bit.ly/ProjectPeace

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