Slam Poetry, which originated from African American roots in the 1980s, is continuing to be a tradition at Utah Tech University.
The Black Student Union, in collaboration with Alpha Pi Epsilon and Writers Block, hosted the annual Poetry Slam event Feb. 17 at the Gardner Student Center in the main ballroom.
This event was held in honor of Black History Month, as part of events and celebrations held this month by BSU.
The event invited students to share both original and borrowed poetry. There were two rounds of poetry in the event, with an open mic at the end while contestant scores were counted. At the end of the night, there were three winners, all given gifts from the clubs hosting the event.
Riya Miles, a freshman general studies major from Las Vegas and a member of BSU, was the emcee. At the beginning of the event, Miles described slam poetry as a “space that becomes movement… rooted in Black culture.”
Slam poetry has been a prominent tradition in African American culture. Originating in the 1980s, the tradition has been used as a platform to discuss politics, race, religion and community.
At the event, students expressed feelings of confusion, sorrow and nostalgia. Metaphors of shoes in closets, language and family were recited to reflect on personal experiences. Treats were shared among contestants, welcoming an inviting environment.
Bristol Lym, a junior English and secondary education major from Sandy, won first place and performed two original poems. The first was titled “Story of Nothing,” reflecting on the history of the English language and how much history has been lost. The second poem was titled “Love it to Love Her,” reflecting on expressing loss and differences in family relationships.
“It was overwhelming and a little scary,” Lym said. “But I feel I almost got to release something… [it] felt like a weight off my shoulders.”
Anibal Montano, a junior information technology major from West Valley and second place winner in the contest, said, “It’s just a great opportunity… and just a great time to show unity in the community.”
Montano shared an original poem and a borrowed poem. In his original poem, he expressed what it is like to live as someone speaking two languages, and the expectations that come with it.
This annual event is important to the BSU. Miles said BSU doesn’t plan on ending the tradition anytime soon. Miles also said this event allows students from all backgrounds to voice concerns and express creativity.
“We want to hear voices from different cultures, different experiences and different lives,” Miles said.
More events will be announced on the BSU Instagram.
Miles said, “I think it’s important to give students a voice. I think it’s important to have a space where you feel safe enough to use that voice… poetry slam is a beautiful way to convey those thoughts and feelings.”
