“Welcome to a callaloo of expression,” was the opening statement to University of the Virgin Islands’ 2015 “UVI Got Talent, Speak Up” poetry slam. The occasion was held to celebrate the art of literary expression in one of its most profound forms - poetry. Over 36 people attended, including staff, students, and visitors, all with the same interest at heart. The event kicked off with an enchanting rendition of the popular Negro spiritual “Go Down Moses,” performed by the English 100 morning class, in honor of poetry’s African American roots.
After its predecessor, the English 100 afternoon class did not disappoint with their thought-provoking deliverance of “What is Poetry?” by Nikki Giovanni. Richard Schrader, a Caribbean author, shared haiku poems from his book “A leaf in the wind” and students followed reading their dekaaz. During the brief open mic session, students and staff recited some of their own pieces. “Speak Up” concluded with a closing poem by student, Rennetta Lewis.
